AARP Hearing Center
Momentum Builds for AARP California Priorities
Taken by Mark Beach, AARP California
AARP California staff and volunteer advocates continue to make meaningful progress at the State Capitol, advancing legislation and protecting programs that support older adults across the state.
Several of AARP California’s top legislative priorities have cleared policy committee hearings and are moving to the next stage of the legislative process. These measures address technology and ratepayer protections, bereavement leave for chosen family, complete streets, retirement savings improvements, transit-oriented housing development and the creation of a centralized transit stop registry.
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One notable measure is AB 1599, which would establish a statewide bus stop data registry. The bill received unanimous support in the Senate Transportation Committee and was placed on the committee’s consent calendar, signaling broad bipartisan support. By improving access to accurate bus stop information, the registry, once it is in place, would help older adults and other riders more easily locate and use public transportation.
Advocacy efforts also delivered important results during negotiations for California’s 2026–2027 state budget. Lawmakers preserved Adult Protective Services eligibility at age 60, rejected proposed taxes and fee caps affecting CalPACE providers, and maintained the current $130,000 Medi-Cal asset limit through July 1, 2027. These victories help protect older Californians’ access to essential services while supporting their health, financial security and independence.
AARP California has taken positions on more than 50 pieces of legislation this year. The next major milestone is August 14, when the Appropriations Committees will determine which bills advance to final votes in the Assembly and Senate.
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