AARP Response to the California State Budget

Statement of AARP California State Director Nancy McPherson:

On behalf of 3.3 million AARP members in California, I want to thank Governor Newsom for protecting vulnerable and low-income older adults in California. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all Californians, but the deepest impacts have been felt by people of color and low-income older adults -- especially residents of nursing homes. We must continue to protect programs that allow older adults with chronic medical conditions to remain living in their homes and communities, which includes supporting the family members who care for them. That is why AARP strongly advocated for continued funding for Community-based Adult Services (CBAS), the Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP), Caregiver Resource Centers, In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), and Medi-Cal optional benefits. It’s critical that California’s budget reflects the values of our state by protecting the most vulnerable Californians.