Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), member of the Senate Committee on Aging, and U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), chair of the Senate Committee on Aging, introduced the “Strategic Plan for Aging Act” on February 28. The landmark bill would create a new, nationwide grant program under the Older Americans Act to “incentivize and support states’ efforts to create their own strategic plans for aging.”

LeadingAge President and CEO Katie Smith Sloan was quoted in endorsement of the bill: “America is experiencing a massive demographic shift that brings opportunity and implications for every aspect of society—but the country is not yet prepared. The Strategic Plan for Aging Act addresses the urgent need for states to develop smart, integrated approaches to ensure that tomorrow’s older adults—in all their growing diversity—age equitably with health, independence, and safety. On behalf of nonprofit, mission-driven aging services providers across a range of care settings and community types, we applaud Senators Gillibrand and Casey’s vision, and urge every other Senator to follow their lead.”

The bill would award grants to states, territories, and tribes to continue or to create their own Multisector Plan for Aging. The plans should cover 10 years and direct stakeholders (local, state, and private) to collaborate on solutions across health care, housing, transportation, employment, income security, and other areas impacting aging. Up to 65 grants of up to $500,000 can be awarded over five years. The Department of Health and Human Services will have the authority to give lower amounts based on need.