This is a paid release.
FRANKFORT, KY — Long before sunrise, members of the AARP Ohio County Chapter #4061 boarded an Audubon Area van and made the three-hour trip to Frankfort for AARP Kentucky’s Annual Lobby Day.
Chapter members were joined by Ohio County Judge-Executive David Johnston as they traveled to the Capitol to speak directly with their lawmakers about issues impacting Kentuckians age 50 and older. WXMZ-FM Midday “Z” Show host Josh Wright joined the delegation, broadcasting live from the Capitol steps.
AARP Kentucky’s Lobby Day brings together state legislators with AARP Executive Council leaders, local Chapter members, Community Team volunteers, and grassroots advocates from across the Commonwealth. The annual event provides a platform for meaningful conversations and elevates support for the priority issues affecting older Kentuckians and their families.
During the day, Ohio County Chapter members met with Senator Stephen Meredith (R 5, Leitchfield) and Representative Scott Lewis (R 14, Hartford) to discuss critical concerns from their communities.
“Lobby Day gives our Chapter members and volunteers the opportunity to speak directly with their state lawmakers and hear about the issues on the table for Kentuckians 50+ in this General Assembly,” said Carla Wallace (Hartford), volunteer Executive Council leader with AARP Kentucky.
AARP Kentucky volunteers and state leaders spent the day advocating for legislation that protects older adults, strengthens families, and ensures communities can age with confidence. Among the organization’s top advocacy priorities:
• Consumer Protection: AARP Kentucky is supporting House Bill 380, aimed at combating scams and fraud schemes— targeting older adults facilitated using local cryptocurrency kiosks.
• Support for Veterans: House Bill 214, which would expand home modification assistance to help veterans live safely and independently in their homes.
• Family Caregiving: Advancing policies that support Kentucky’s unpaid family caregivers, who provide essential care and face mounting emotional and financial pressures.
• Long-Term Care Quality: Promoting strong standards and oversight to ensure safe, high-quality long-term care options.
• Housing and Utilities: Encouraging innovative, affordable housing solutions and advocating for fair, affordable utility rates for older residents.
AARP Kentucky grassroots advocates will continue championing these priorities throughout the 2026 General Assembly.
