Advocating for Senior Programs and Services in the District's Budget

In 2021, AARP DC will be focusing its early advocacy efforts on ensuring that the District’s fiscal year 2022 budget does not adversely impact residents 50-plus in the District of Columbia.

The pandemic left a mulit-million dollar budget gap in 2020. And for 2021, there is a predicted deficit in the budget. DC Councilmembers and District officials have already warned that without any major increase in revenue, there will likely be cuts to the DC budget this upcoming year. AARP will focus on protecting senior services from budget cuts and protecting programs that help older adults in the District stay in their homes as they age.

We are always working to make sure older residents don’t get short shrift when local lawmakers make decisions about funding programs, and in the coming year, AARP will be a strong and consistent voice with officials at the Wilson Building, whether virtually or in person. With several newly elected councilmembers joining the Council in January, we will make sure that both new and current DC Councilmembers understand the importance of protecting senior programs and services.

Want to Make a Difference?  

AARP DC is currently looking for volunteers to be Ward Liaisons. As a Ward Liaison — our most popular role — you will help raise awareness of AARP DC’s advocacy efforts while fighting for issues that matter to older adults, such as nutrition access, affordable housing, and lowering the cost of prescription drugs. You will represent your Ward and share the needs of older adults in the community with AARP DC. You may also be asked to testify before the DC Council, attend community meetings, and disseminate resources in your community. Please reach out to Brittany Kit at bkitt@aarp.org or Peter Rankin at prankin@aarp.org if you are interested in becoming a Ward Liaison.