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What AARP Michigan is Fighting For

AARP Michigan is championing common-sense solutions to strengthen financial security, expand care options and make communities more livable for all ages.

Sadie Shattuck,

AARP Michigan

Published April 29, 2026

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As Michigan’s population continues to age, it’s more important than ever that public policy reflects the needs, priorities and voices of Michiganders. With nearly 1.25 million AARP members in Michigan, AARP Michigan is advocating for common-sense solutions that help people age with dignity, security and independence.

AARP Michigan staff and trained volunteers work directly with lawmakers through meetings, testimony, letters, grassroots advocacy and public education. As legislation moves through the process, AARP keeps members informed and holds elected officials accountable.

AARP Michigan’s 2026 Legislative Agenda outlines the key issues we are working on at the State Capitol to strengthen financial security, improve health and long-term care, create livable communities, protect consumers and support veterans and their families.

Below is a summarized breakdown of the agenda. You can access the full legislative agenda by clicking here.

Financial Security

Too many Michigan workers, particularly those at small businesses, lack access to a workplace retirement plan. AARP supports creating a public-private retirement savings option that allows workers to save automatically through payroll deductions. Additionally, AARP supports a refundable state tax credit to help offset caregivers’ out-of-pocket expenses and recognize the critical role they play. Finally, AARP is urging lawmakers to require safeguards to prevent scammers using cryptocurrency kiosks from stealing from Michiganders.

Long-Term Care

AARP supports increasing access to home- and community-based services (HCBS) by rebalancing Michigan’s long-term care system to direct more Medicaid dollars toward in-home services. AARP also supports stronger safeguards to prevent exploitation, including reforms to guardianship systems and improved safety and accountability in nursing homes.

Health Care

AARP Michigan is advocating for solutions that make health care more affordable and accessible as people age. First, Michigan faces a critical shortage of direct care workers, leading to high turnover and reduced quality of care. AARP supports efforts to improve wages, training, career pathways and retention. Second, high drug prices cause many Michiganders to delay or skip needed medications. AARP supports policies that rein in excessive drug prices.

Livable Communities

Reliable, affordable high-speed internet is essential for telehealth, social connection and independent living. AARP supports expanding broadband infrastructure and digital literacy programs. Michigan is a national leader in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. AARP supports policies that ensure older adults can remain engaged in community life.

Veterans

AARP Michigan is committed to honoring service and supporting veterans and military families by connecting them to trusted resources.

To receive advocacy updates and take action on the issues that matter most, sign up to become an AARP Activist. If you are interested in becoming an AARP Michigan advocacy volunteer, fill out an interest form today. Together, we can help ensure Michigan remains a place where people can age with confidence and security.