AARP Idaho

A new public service announcement sponsored by AARP Idaho and state officials is helping people with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers locate useful resources. In the PSA written by AARP Idaho, Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter (R) calls attention to Idaho’s free hotline, called 2-1-1 CareLine. People can dial 2-1-1 to be connected with local support services and educational materials – some are free or low cost for those who are eligible. The public service announcement will begin airing in May 2013. To learn more go to 211.idaho.gov or to view the PSA click here.

Boise, Idaho - The creation of a state-based health insurance exchange is one of the most hotly debated issues taking place during the current Idaho State Legislative session. But according to an AARP Idaho survey of registered voters there’s little debate among Gem Staters on the issue. Many of those surveyed report difficulty paying for their health insurance and overwhelmingly support the creation of a state-based exchange that could get them a better deal and more options on rising insurance premiums.

Boise, Idaho - This year, AARP Foundation is again providing free tax assistance and preparation for taxpayers with low to moderate income through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in its 46th year, is the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service, giving special attention the older population. You do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service.

Boise, Idaho - According to research done by AARP Idaho, just under half of those eligible for property tax reduction in Idaho actually apply for this discount. Therefore, the Idaho State Tax Commission is partnering with AARP Idaho to make more people aware of the benefit that’s available to lower-income seniors and others who qualify. helps

Boise, Idaho - Tom Trail is a former Idaho State Representative and currently volunteers on AARP Idaho’s Executive Council. This week he received the Legislator of the Year award from the Human Society of the United States.

Boise, Idaho – After more than two hours of debate, the Senate Health and Welfare Committee approved a bill (SB1053) changing the way SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits are distributed in Idaho. The vote was 6-3 and the bill will now head to the Senate floor for a full vote with a do-pass recommendation. A similar bill failed to get out of the same committee last year.

Boise, Idaho - AARP Idaho state volunteer president Peggy Munson testified in front of the Idaho Senate Commerce & Human resources committee in support of a Senate Bill 1042 which would establish a state-based health insurance exchange in Idaho.

With the December 31 st deadline to address expiring tax and spending cuts looming, many people across the nation and here in Idaho are left wondering what Washington’s budget debate means for them. Unfortunately, some in Washington are considering making changes to Medicare and Social Security through a year-end budget deal. AARP is providing a breakdown of the impact a shortsighted budget deal could have on the health and retirement security of Idaho seniors and their kids and grand-kids.

Each year AARP Idaho honors a volunteer with the Andrus Award for Outstanding Community Service. This year, Gary Willett was recognized for his outstanding work in the community, including his leadership in AARP Idaho’s Tax Aide program.