Member Report on Past Lobby Meeting

Jim Howe, AFT-Retired, wrote the following report for the Retirees insert to “AFT Washington’s Quarterly Union Spotlight” publication. He gave a summary of the Lobby’s last meeting “as an example of the diverse, educational and engaging work of the Lobby.”

Legislative Update: The Senior Citizens Lobby

By Jim Howe, Director

The March 2026 meeting of the Senior Citizens Lobby is a typical good example of how active, diverse and educational this group is. The Retiree Chapter joined the Lobby in late 2025, which can provide opportunities to connect with both advocates and agencies working for Seniors.

• The WA Department of Social and Health Services reported on results from the WA Legislative session and healthcare budget issues.
• The League of Women Voters reported that 267 bills out of 1300+ passed in the short session. They explained detailed benefits of the Millionaires Tax (effective 2029), which will face a court challenge and maybe a voter initiative. They also gave details of budget cuts. One solution to a PERS/TRS1 permanent COLA won’t come until 2034, when a richer pension fund opens up.
• Puget Sound Advocates for Retirement Action reported on the Federal partial shutdown and the dangerous SAVE Act. The Congressional Budget Office said that HR1 wiped out 12 years of the Medicare Trust Fund, 2052->2040. The successful WA passing of SJM8002 – Level the Playing Field for traditional Medicare, was mentioned. Also, the disastrous cutbacks at Social Security offices.
• The Long Term Care Foundation was introduced and described their work training Adult Family Home workers, and challenges with Medicaid funding.
• WA State Broadband Office gave a progress report from their new director.
• WA Association of Elder Law Attorneys described their work and encouraged Seniors to have Wills, Durable Powers of Attorney, and Healthcare Directives.
• WA State Woman’s Commission described their work since 2019, and initiative on Women’s health-related issues. They’re looking for a 65+ woman to serve on their Board.

The next Senior Lobby (Zoom) Meeting will be on Monday, April 20, 2026 – all AFT Retirees are invited.