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House Appropriations Committee Chairman Jack McFarland Named AARP Louisiana's 2026 Legislator of the Year
Standing Up for Louisianans Age 50 and Older
This annual honor recognizes Louisiana elected officials who lead policies that improve the lives of residents age 50 and older. McFarland was selected for his work during the 2026 legislative session to expand home-based care, increase access to waivers, and strengthen long-term support for older adults, family caregivers, and people with disabilities across Louisiana.
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About the AARP Louisiana Legislator of the Year Award
Each year, AARP Louisiana recognizes an elected official who has demonstrated strong leadership on issues that matter to Louisianans age 50 and older. The 2026 honor goes to House Appropriations Committee Chairman Jack McFarland, in recognition of his commitment to improving the lives of older adults, family caregivers, and individuals with disabilities during the most recent legislative session.
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How Chairman McFarland Advanced Home-Based Care for Louisianans
As chair of the House Appropriations Committee, McFarland championed investments in Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), expanded waiver opportunities, and funding initiatives designed to help older Louisianans age safely and independently in their homes and communities.
His leadership helped advance budget priorities that strengthen access to long-term services and supports for Louisiana's growing aging population. Key outcomes from the 2026 session include funding for 750 new Community Choice Waivers and higher wages for direct support professionals. These investments are expected to expand access to care for Louisianans who need support to remain in their homes.
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What This Means for Older Louisianans, Family Caregivers, and People with Disabilities
For Louisianans age 50 and older, family caregivers, and individuals with disabilities, McFarland's budget leadership translates directly to expanded choices for receiving care at home rather than in a facility.
What AARP Louisiana Leaders Are Saying
"We are proud to honor Chairman Jack McFarland for his leadership and commitment to issues that matter to older Louisianans and their families," said Denise Bottcher, AARP Louisiana state director. "His support for Home and Community-Based Services and waiver programs helps ensure that more Louisianans have the opportunity to remain in their homes and communities as they age."
"Chairman McFarland's leadership helped advance critical investments in Home and Community-Based Services," said Andrew Muhl, AARP Louisiana advocacy director. "Funding for 750 new Community Choice Waivers and higher wages for direct support professionals will expand access to care and help more Louisianans live with independence and dignity."
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Attend the Award Presentation in Baton Rouge on Oct. 15
Chairman McFarland will be formally recognized at an award presentation on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 12 p.m.
Location: AARP Louisiana state office, 301 Main St., Suite 1012, Baton Rouge, LA 70802.
For questions about the event, contact Andrew Muhl at amuhl@aarp.org or (225) 376-1151
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