Opinion: Congress must reauthorize the National Advisory Committee for Seniors and Disasters
Congress must reauthorize the National Advisory Committee for Seniors and Disasters.
With the election of Rep. Mike Johnson as speaker of the House, the urgent and important work of passing appropriations and vital national security legislation is now advancing. But it is also the time to address additional important issues affecting the well-being of Americans, such as one highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic as well as recent wildfires and hurricanes: the care and support for America’s most vulnerable. Leading health organizations and experts in geriatrics, pediatrics, and the care of the disabled have long cited the need to address the health consequences of these vulnerable groups when disasters disrupt their care.
Congress addressed the unique needs of older adults with the creation of the National Advisory Committee on Seniors and Disasters (NACSD) as part of the 2018 Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act. This committee, (on which Sue Anne is a full member and Michael a subcommittee member), held its first meeting in March 2022 and issued its initial set of recommendations for improving elder disaster care in May and September of 2023.
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