Lawmakers Take First Steps in Response to the Age Wave

About 20 percent of Washingtonians will be 65 or older by 2030, up from the current 13 percent. The age wave is expected to increase pressure on state services and infrastructure.

Lawmakers responded during the recent legislative session by creating a high-level committee to plan for the demographic shift. AARP Washington pushed for the measure.

The Joint Legislative Executive Committee on Aging and Disability Issues will identify strategies for transportation, health care, long-term care, housing and other needs of older people and those with disabilities. In addition, the committee will identify policies to support people who want to stay in the workforce longer and expand the availability of workplace retirement savings plans.