2026 -- H 8518

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LC006031

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026

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H O U S E   R E S O L U T I O N

PROCLAIMING MAY 2026, TO BE "OLDER AMERICANS MONTH" IN THE STATE OF

RHODE ISLAND

     Introduced By: Representatives Carson, Shekarchi, Blazejewski, Chippendale, Fogarty,
Shallcross Smith, Cortvriend, Hull, Ajello, and Fellela

     Date Introduced: May 05, 2026

     Referred To: House read and passed

     WHEREAS, Older Americans Month was first established in May 1963 as “Senior

Citizens Month” after a meeting between President John F. Kennedy and members of the

National Council of Senior Citizens. Early proclamations encouraged the recognition of older

Americans’ contributions to society and their needs. Later presidential proclamations continued

the observance, and in 1980 the name was changed to Older Americans Month to broaden the

celebration of older adults nationwide; and

     WHEREAS, Rhode Island's own Congressman John E. Fogarty held a pivotal role in

establishing the Older Americans Act (OAA). His contribution to older Americans remains a

keystone piece of Legislation thereby providing comprehensive services for older adults

throughout the United States; and

     WHEREAS, In 1963, only about 17 million Americans were age 65 or older, and roughly

one-third of them lived in poverty; and

     WHEREAS, Today, there are more than 61 million Americans ages 65 or older,

representing approximately 18 percent of the total U.S. population, and this number is projected

to continue increasing so that older Americans will make up about 82 million or 23 percent of the

population by 2050. In 2024, more than 17 million Americans ages 65 or older were

economically insecure, living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL); and

     WHEREAS, Older Americans Month acknowledges and celebrates the many

contributions older adults have made and continue to make in support of our nation, especially

our senior veterans. The observance is celebrated across the nation with public ceremonies, fairs,

activities, and other events that honor the achievements and service of older adults; and

     WHEREAS, Every day, older Americans contribute their wisdom, experience, time and

resources in support of their communities. They assist young families as they navigate through

the joys and travails of raising children, are key supporters and contributors to many civic

organizations and charities, and are a key component of the national economy; and

     WHEREAS, Engagement and respect between younger and older generations are

fundamental to American life. It is important that society offer older Americans the services,

resources, and support they need to live as independently as possible, make choices that are best

for them and their families, and pursue personal fulfillment as they age; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby

proclaims the Month of May 2026 to be "Older Americans Month" in the State of Rhode Island;

and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Maria Cimini, Director of the Rhode Island

Office of Healthy Aging.

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