OAA Expiration and Temporary Funding
While the previous reauthorization of the Older Americans Act (OAA) expired at the end of fiscal year 2024, programs have not stopped. They are currently funded through continuing resolutions (CRs) passed by Congress. These CRs provide temporary funding, often at previous levels, preventing immediate service disruption but creating uncertainty for aging service providers.
The Need for Long-Term Reauthorization
A long-term reauthorization bill is needed to provide stability and funding for state and local agencies to plan for the future and adapt to the growing older adult population. A new reauthorization can also incorporate modern updates, such as flexibility in nutrition programs and support for the direct care workforce.
Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act of 2025
In June 2025, the Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act of 2025 (S. 2120) was introduced in the Senate. This bipartisan bill proposes to reauthorize OAA programs from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 and includes several enhancements for older adults and their caregivers. Key provisions include increased funding, enhanced caregiver support, elder abuse prevention, workforce development support, and modernization of nutrition programs to allow for carryout meals at congregate sites.
Comparing OAA Reauthorization Efforts in 2024 vs. 2025
| Feature | 2024 Reauthorization Attempt (S.4776) | 2025 Reauthorization Act (S. 2120) |
|---|---|---|
| Status as of late 2024 | Passed the Senate in December 2024, but failed to pass the House. | Not yet introduced. Funding operated via Continuing Resolutions. |
| Introduction | Introduced in the Senate in July 2024. | Introduced in the Senate in June 2025. |
| Authorization Period | Authorized appropriations for FY2025 through FY2029. | Proposes authorization for FY2026 through FY2030. |
| Workforce Development | Allowed for a national resource center to support the direct care workforce. | Maintains the provision for a national resource center to strengthen the direct care workforce. |
| Nutrition Flexibility | Explicitly permitted grab-and-go meals at congregate sites. | Includes similar provisions for carryout meals at congregate sites. |
| Key Changes | Focused on modernizing existing services and including advisory groups. | Maintains focus on modernization and includes an 18% funding increase over four years. |
The Role of Stakeholder Advocacy
Advocacy is important for OAA reauthorization. The failure of the 2024 attempt highlights the need for continued efforts to ensure renewal. Stakeholders are encouraged to contact their representatives to emphasize the OAA's impact.
Impact on Services and Programs
Temporary funding limits the expansion and improvement of programs. Without a clear long-term plan, agencies face challenges in service delivery planning. Consistent funding is needed to support services for the more than 59 million older Americans.
The Outlook for Reauthorization
As of late 2025, the Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act is moving through the legislative process. While introduced in the Senate, it still requires passage by both chambers. Lawmakers and advocates are working towards reauthorization to ensure continued support for seniors.
Conclusion
While the OAA was not formally reauthorized for 2025, it is operating on temporary funding. A new bipartisan bill introduced in mid-2025 aims to reauthorize the Act for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 with improvements. The legislative process is ongoing, and continued support is needed to secure the OAA's future and its role in assisting millions of older Americans.
