Government Watch helps AARP's 40 million members hold their federal elected officials accountable for the way they vote on the issues of greatest importance to Americans age 50+.

Government Watch is responding to AARP members' demands for more transparency from the U.S. government—their desire to know how their senators and representatives are voting on key issues and what the executive branch is doing to advance critical priorities.

80 Million Eyes Watching Health Reform

As Congress hammers out the details of health-care reform legislation, AARP members are watching to ensure that the final bill will help older Americans by:

 

• Guaranteeing access to affordable coverage for Americans age 50-64

• Closing the Medicare Part D coverage gap or "doughnut hole"

• Creating a Medicare-transition benefit to help patients safely return to their homes after hospital stays—thus preventing costly hospital readmissions

• Increasing federal funding and eligibility for home- and community-based services through Medicaid, so older Americans can remain in their homes—thus avoiding expensive nursing homes

• Creating a pathway for the approval of generic versions of biologic drugs—thus lowering the prices of these costly treatments

• Improving the Medicare Savings Programs and the Part D Low Income Subsidy so more Americans can afford the health care and prescription drugs they need

To see how AARP members are getting involved in health reform, go to Health Action Now.

AARP Members to See Final Votes on Economic Recovery

With "Government Watch," AARP is giving its 40 million members an eye on how Congress votes on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The legislation is a key vote for AARP, because, the organization says, the bill offers real relief to older Americans and jump-starts our economy. AARP members can see how their Senators and Representatives voted and share their feedback on this important legislation.

AARP's Legislative Champions

Our new award honors members of Congress who promoted legislation to improve the lives of older Americans and their families.

AARP Key Votes

House and Senate Pass Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act

AARP applauds the Senators and Representatives who voted in favor of this Act. AARP members can see how their Senators and Representatives voted and share their feedback on this important legislation.

 

•  Read About the Legislation