AARP Urges Members to Vote to Pass the Economic Recovery Package

Per President Barack Obama, new corporate layoffs continue to add to the urgency of Congress passing his $825 billion economic recovery plan. It seems like everyone is supporting this measure. Even AARP! I just received an email message, asking for my support, since so many retirees and senior citizens are really feeling the pinch of this failed economy. Thus, as an American and as a soon-to-be full-fledged AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) recipient (I'm only 49 and not close to retirement yet), I decided to cast my vote.

Per AARP, below is what I received via email. After reading this heartfelt plea, how could you say no?

PASS THE ECONOMIC RECOVERY BILL

The House of Representatives is about to act on the crucial economic recovery bill! It's no secret that older Americans have been among the hardest hit by the economic crisis. That's why it's urgent that your Representative hear from you today.

Please take just two minutes to make sure your Representative hears from the AARP movement before the votes are cast. Send a message to your Representative today, and make sure this economic recovery bill gets passed.

As an AARP member, I urge you to pass the strong, comprehensive economic recovery package that will reach the House floor this week. This legislation would directly address the most immediate and day-to-day needs of the Americans who most need relief.

In particular, I am very pleased that the current legislation includes crucial funding for state health and long-term care programs, improvements in health care - such as health information technology, health care effectiveness research, and nurse and primary care training, affordable health insurance options for those who lost health coverage along with jobs; funding to help those who have lost employment; and needed money for the Social Security Administration.

Because older Americans have been particularly hard hit by the economic crisis, I urge you to support the House legislation to help with our economic recovery. I also urge that any final package also include a direct payment to the over 25 million individuals 65 and older who no longer work and cannot benefit from the worker tax credit, as well as stronger protections for home and community based services.

The gravity of the economic crisis requires urgent action - the House package will help provide much-needed relief to millions across the country.

Sincerely,

(Name)

(Address)

(City), (State)

(Zip)