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AARP Tennessee Sets 2026 Priorities, Legislative Agenda

Fraud Prevention, Social Security Among Top Issues Facing Tennesseans 50+

AARP

Published January 15, 2026

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FRANKLIN, TENN. – Today, AARP Tennessee announced its 2026 state priorities and legislative agenda. These key topics will drive the work of staff and volunteers for the coming year.

AARP Tennessee 2026 Priorities include the following issue areas:

Fraud Prevention: Tennesseans lost more than $157 million from scams last year, and AARP will continue to forge alliances with law enforcement and serve as a trusted resource for empowering Tennesseans to reduce the incidence and impact of fraud.
Health & Wellness: Brain health, physical fitness and nutrition are key to living a long and vibrant life, and AARP recognizes cultivating a culture of health and wellness in Tennessee will reduce the occurrence of chronic illnesses and lessen the burden on our healthcare system.
Social Security: Social Security helps more than 1.5 million Tennesseans live and retire with dignity. AARP will work to protect Social Security to ensure its benefits and services are strong for generations to come.

“After listening to AARP members in Tennessee, and conducting extensive research, we are committed to fighting fraud, promoting better health and protecting Social Security as our top issues for the year,” said Mia McNeil, AARP Tennessee State Director. “Our team of staff, volunteers and community partners are prepared to deliver support, resources and opportunities to make a positive difference for Tennesseans 50+ and their families.”

As the 114th Tennessee General Assembly commences its 2026 session, AARP Tennessee has also identified policy focus areas as we advocate for important issues facing Tennesseans 50+ and their families.

Cryptocurrency Fraud Protection: AARP will support policies that prevent the most common scams and financial exploitation schemes targeting older adults.
Automatic Individual Retirement Accounts: AARP supports an Auto IRA program to ensure Tennesseans have a portable, accessible investment tool—especially workers without access to employer-sponsored retirement plans.
Strengthening the Caregiver Alliance: AARP will work with the Caregiver Caucus to deliver policies that save caregivers time and money—and provide more support to the 1.5 million family caregivers in Tennessee.

“We’re working with state officials to address issues like Cryptocurrency ATM fraud, and creating opportunities to help Tennesseans save enough for retirement,” said Makayla McCree, AARP Tennessee Associate State Director of Advocacy. “2026 is a critical year for our state, and our AARP team is poised and ready to work in partnership with federal, state and local leaders to enact policies that make life better from Memphis to Mountain City.”

For the latest information and free resources, go to www.aarp.org/tn.