Advocacy

WASHINGTON, DC -- AARP is urging passage of the bipartisan, bicameral Credit for Caring Act (S. 1670/H.R. 3321) introduced by Senators Ernst, Bennet, Capito, and Warren and Representative Sánchez that would provide a new, non-refundable federal tax credit of up to $5,000 to eligible family caregivers to help address the financial challenges of caring for parents, spouses, and other loved ones while remaining in the workforce. The vast majority of individuals 50-plus (92 percent) support a federal tax credit for family caregivers.

On July 15, legislation that would govern electricity production for decades to come (H 951) passed the House 57-49. Critics argue that the measure could raise customer rates. Some Representatives acknowledge that the bill still needs work to gain approval by the Senate and the Governor.

Natural gas is an indispensable part of our modern lifestyle. It supplies about one-forth of the energy consumed in the United States. But if Piedmont Natural Gas Company gets what is is asking state energy regulators for, residential customers will see rates increase by almost 12 percent. AARP weighed in with the NC Utilities Commission asking them to trim and reject parts of the company's rate hike request.

Most everyone understands the importance of saving for retirement. Yet few people, unless their employers offer workplace retirement savings options like 401Ks, are doing so.

June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and AARP North Carolina is working with other advocates for the aging to help prevent exploitation, abuse and neglect of older adults in the state.

RALEIGH -- A simple way to start saving for retirement through payroll deductions may soon be a reality for over 1.7 million North Carolina workers who don't have access to pensions and 401Ks. The bi-partisan NC Work and Save bill (HB 899), introduced in the General Assembly in May, creates an easy-to-use, plug-and-play savings proposal requiring little effort or fiduciary responsibility from small businesses that want to offer their workers an important benefit.

It’s estimated that 1 in 10 Americans 65 or older experience elder abuse annually, ranging from financial exploitation to physical abuse or denial of medical care. May is Older Americans Month, and AARP North Carolina is working with agencies and groups to create a stronger elder-protection network.

Story updated on July 23, 2021

AARP NC supports SB20 because based on action in other states, it will reduce crashes that result in fatalities and serious injuries. We advocate for communities that are more livable and age-friendly, including safer transportation networks. In addition, with decreased collision repair costs and medical expenses due to less distracted driving crashes, the NC Insurance Commissioner has said that insurance rates should decrease, which is important to our members, especially those on limited fixed incomes. The hands-free driving law is a common sense, enforceable approach to the problem of distracted driving.

RALEIGH -- The NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) announced some good news for people who have been waiting patiently, as well as painfully, to visit their loved ones in long-term care facilities.