National Policy Council
An advisory committee to the AARP Board of Directors, the AARP National Policy Council (NPC) is composed of volunteers who represent a diverse cross section of AARP members and have a proven record of public policy experience and interest. The NPC helps the board to perform its governance responsibilities in setting policy and strategic policy direction for the Association. The presence on the NPC of five regional representatives, three board members and AARP's president-elect facilitates integration among AARP's state offices, national staff, volunteers, and the Board.
Members of the Council develop and make public policy recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding AARP's federal, state and local legislative and regulatory issues. In making public policy recommendations for the board's consideration and approval, the NPC studies public policy options and considers opinions of members, guidance of staff and analysis from nationally-renowned policy experts.
NPC Responsibilities
Throughout the year, Council members are asked to participate in a
variety of activities including maintaining ongoing relationships with
states, hosting AARP policy forums, and representing the Council
before AARP members and the public. NPC members are expected to attend
all NPC meetings held throughout the year. Meetings are generally held
at the AARP National Office in Washington, DC.
Some of the major responsibilities of an AARP National Policy Council member are the following:
- Serve as a member of one of three policy committees: Consumer and Livable Communities; Economic, Employment and Low-Income Issues; or Health and Long-Term Care;
- Expand knowledge of issues within policy committee jurisdiction;
- Keep informed on public policy issues and developments (especially on issues relating to policy committee assignment);
- Serve as a resource and spokesperson on AARP public policy (this could include testifying before legislative or regulatory bodies; speaking at and/or attending conferences; and leading policy discussions with AARP volunteers and members);
- Coordinate activities through and communicate regularly with the Office of Policy Integration.
The AARP Office of Policy Integration coordinates the activities of the NPC. For more information, call 202-434-3720.
NPC Application Process
The application process for seats on the National Policy Council has closed. Check back in early 2010 for information about how to apply to be a member of the NPC.
