Advocacy

As the final month of an unconventional legislative session at the Minnesota State Capitol, several key factors have influenced the session. The House of Representatives is evenly split, with a 67-67 political party division, leading to a historic power-sharing agreement. Additionally, uncertainty about federal funding cuts looms large over the Capitol. The Legislature’s primary responsibility is to pass a state budget every two years, and legislators are working to meet the May 19, 2025 deadline.

Since the new administration took office in Washington, D.C., AARP has initiated a campaign to champion the Credit for Caring Act. This proposed legislation seeks to provide working family caregivers with a non-refundable tax credit to help alleviate caregiving expenses.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has recently announced significant changes to its operations, including the elimination of some over-the-phone application services, workforce reductions, and the closure of many regional offices. These changes are expected to impact nearly one in five MN residents who receive Social Security benefits, particularly the 37 percent of individuals aged 65 and older who rely on the program for at least half of their income.

AARP Minnesota will inform residents about the change and promote AARP Smart Driver courses and other AARP Driver Safety programs during Traffic Safety Day at the Mall of America in May.

Hear from older Minnesotans about the impact of frauds and scams.

AARP Minnesota is pushing for the passage of legislation to create a state-level Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund (Fund) for victims of fraud, modeled after the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Civil Penalty Fund.

Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.

December 2 to 6, 2024, is Older Driver Safety Awareness Week (ODSAW), a time to empower older adults to improve their safety on the nation’s roadways. This is important because – even though they are safe drivers overall – older drivers are more vulnerable to severe injury or even death when involved in a vehicle crash.

As the 2025 Minnesota State Legislature gets underway in January, AARP will advocate for a range of measures to improve the lives of those 50 and older.

AARP Minnesota seeks volunteers to support its 2025 legislative priorities, including creating a Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund. Add your voice and make a difference.