Michael Wagler of Des Moines has been named the new AARP Iowa State Director, effective November 11. He will oversee operations of the Iowa state office, which includes a staff of four full-time employees and a volunteer advisory Executive Council that works on behalf of all Iowans 50+, including more than 329,000 AARP members statewide.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are residential living units on the same lot as a single-family or primary dwelling. AARP Iowa is working to expand access to this housing option by championing a statewide ADU law that would give all Iowans the right to build an ADU on their property, reducing unnecessary regulations and red tape.
As New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) prepares to release her budget this month, AARP is pushing for an $83 million boost in funding for programs that serve older residents who need help with daily activities, such as cooking or bathing.
Colorado's Prescription Drug Affordability Board has deemed three anti-inflammatory medications unaffordable, the first time such an entity has made such a move. Amgen, the maker of one of the medications, has filed a lawsuit challenging the board's authority.
AARP Georgia will be advocating for a state-facilitated retirement savings program for private-sector workers who don’t have access to one through their employer during the 2025-26 legislative session.
The set of reforms includes creating a new fund to support career advancement for long-term care workers, requiring care facilities to submit disease outbreak response plans, and allowing qualified assisted living staff to provide basic health services.