AARP Reaction to Gov's State of the State: "Kitchen Table" Economic Issues Dominate for 50+

Strong Support for State-Based Health Exchange, Urges Gov. to Help Change the Game for Idaho Utility Consumers – Will Watch & Inform 50+ on Issues

Statement by Jim Wordelman, State Director for AARP Idaho

BOISE, Idaho, Jan. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- With Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter's State of the State address today, AARP Idaho issued the following statement by Jim Wordelman, State Director for the Association:

"AARP Idaho commends Governor Otter for his focus on improving Idaho's economy, and finding ways to bring more businesses and jobs to the Gem State.  The economic issue that matters most to Idahoans is their own 'kitchen table' economy, their own household budgets and the ability to pay their bills as prices soar and salaries don't.

"While jobless rates in Idaho continue to improve, the plight of those 55+ is still a rough one, as the age group still faces an average length of unemployment that is over 14 weeks longer than their younger counterparts.  AARP is hopeful the Governor's efforts will improve Idaho's jobless rates for all age groups.

"Creating a state-based health care exchange has the support of the overwhelming majority of Idaho voters (80%); we're calling on the Governor and Legislators to join with them.  Moving this issue forward will be a priority for AARP.  

"Health care costs are causing a strain on most Idaho households, with 53% of registered voters age 30-64 in the state reporting difficulty paying for health insurance with most worried they won't be able to retire due to high health care costs.   A strong state-based health insurance exchange will help individuals and small businesses find insurance plans that meet their needs and their budgets, getting the same deal that large businesses in Idaho do.  AARP applauds the Governor's efforts allowing this issue to move forward and we will work with the administration and lawmakers to make sure Idahoans come first in creating an exchange, not the special interests of insurance companies.

"While not mentioned in his State of the State, another pressure point on Idahoans' 'kitchen table' economies are ever-rising utility bills. According to a recent AARP survey, over 40% of Idahoans 50+ reported difficulty affording these bills in the past year.  With a fresh round of rate hikes hitting Idaho consumers, most are concerned their views and voices aren't at the table during rate hike settlement conferences and proceedings.  AARP says it's time to change the game and level the playing field. 

"The Association's top priority heading into the 2012 legislative session will be establishing a utility consumer advocate office to ensure that residential consumers and small businesses, including family farms, are at the table and have the representation they need when utility companies are seeking to increase their bills.  Those that 'win' rate cases shouldn't just be those with the money to be at the table.  AARP Idaho looks forward to working with the Governor and the legislature to accomplish this on behalf of all Idaho consumers.  Idaho is currently the only state in the West without a utility consumer advocate office.

"AARP is optimistic about these issues and others we'll be working on in the upcoming legislative session.  It is an election year, and Idaho's 50+, who made up 53% of all votes cast in the last Presidential election, will no doubt be keeping a close watch on the issues that matter to them with an eye towards the May primaries and November elections.  AARP Idaho will be keeping the group informed and engaged along the way." 

AARP is Idaho's largest membership organization with over 180,000 members.

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SOURCE AARP Idaho