California Supports LGBTQ Seniors

California Governor Jerry Brown has signed AB 2719, authored by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) & co-sponsored by Equality California & SAGE. This new law adds sexual orientation, gender identity & gender expression to the definition of elderly communities to be given priority consideration for programs & services administered through the California Department of Aging. Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) stated “I’m incredibly thankful to the Governor for signing this bill into law. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Queer Californians will now have certainty that the State will continue to take into account their unique circumstances as they age & our current elderly LGBTQ population will continue to benefit from having priority in the planning & implementation of programs they need to age with dignity.” Rick Zbur Equality California Executive Director added, “It’s incredibly important that we ensure LGBTQ older adults have access to the services & support they need to maintain their health and live their lives with dignity. We’re deeply grateful to Governor Brown for signing AB 2719 & to Assemblymember Irwin for being such a strong champion for our LGBTQ elders.” Michael Adams SAGE CEO concluded, “We commend Governor Brown & the state of California for taking this important step forward on behalf of LGBT older people. LGBT elders experience high rates of social isolation & poverty as well as thin support networks & heavily rely on home & community-based services in their later years. Just like all other older people, we must ensure they have access to welcoming services in their communities. We hope that Congress follows California’s lead when it reauthorizes the Older Americans Act in 2019.”
For More Info: eqca.org
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