Older Americans Act of 1965: Overdue for Reauthorization by Congress

With Congressional members returning to D.C. following the summer recess, is there any hope they can accomplish the uncontroversial act of voting to reauthorize the Older Americans Act (OAA), first enacted in 1965?  The landmark law provides federal funding and creates the infrastructure for the delivery of critical social services such as meals, caregiver support, protection from elder abuse, and job training services to help seniors maintain independence in their homes and communities. However, Congressional gridlock has allowed complete reauthorization and updates to languish since 2011.

The latest reauthorization legislation was introduced by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt) earlier in 2013, with details available here.