Advocacy

AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of the State Message:

With the legislature in session, all eyes are on the state budget. AARP New York will push to protect funding for home- and community-based services that help people age in place. Keeping utilities affordable is also on the docket.

With over 2.25 million members in New York, AARP New York strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to older New Yorkers and their families, including health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age.

Albany, N.Y. – A new AARP report “The $31 Million Ratepayer Disadvantage - The Energy Rate Game Needs A Change” highlights one of several major flaws in how New York develops energy rates that has created a great disadvantage to residential ratepayers.

Long-time Executive Council Member William McDonald will advocate on behalf of all New Yorkers age 50+

Long Island stands at a demographic crossroads. With 41% of the population being ages 50 and older, these communities face both challenges and economic opportunities. These policy roadmaps illustrate how targeted policies and age-friendly initiatives yield substantial economic returns while enhancing the quality of life for residents of all ages throughout Long Island.

AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement in regards to Governor Hochul vetoing A.2468 (Dinowitz) into law, which would have created the state office of the utility consumer advocate.

As part of Family Caregivers Month, AARP New York reached out to legislators so they could share their caregiving stories and why they believe it’s important to highlight services for caregivers. New York State’s 4  million  family caregivers provide an estimated  2.1 billion hours  of care for older parents, spouses, and other loved ones each year.

En Español |AARP New York and the Medicare Rights Center want you to know that extra money is available to help pay for your Medicare costs. With recently expanded eligibility guidelines, more New Yorkers than ever can qualify for a program that can help with out-of-pocket Medicare expenses like your premiums, copays, coinsurances, and deductibles!