Columbia, SC

Change City

---

• Back to News Feed

AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers

Posted on 01/21/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 21, 2025

Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071

Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP

COLUMBIA, SC— AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.

Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:
“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”

Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:

• $10 million for Home and Community-Based Services: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.
• $100 million to address the impact of strokes: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.
• $20.6 million for veteran nursing homes: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.
• $1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.

A Call for Additional Legislative Action
As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:

• Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance:  Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.  By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.
• Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers: This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.
• Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.

South Carolina’s Path Forward
“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”

###

About AARP

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.

This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the AARP South Carolina page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.

AARP Events for Columbia

AARP Events for Columbia

• AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center

  Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. ET

  Faith Sellers Senior Center

  Summerville, SC

• AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc

  Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. ET

  Grace Umc

  North Augusta, SC

• AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec

  Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. ET

  Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec

  Columbia, SC

View All AARP Events

Last Chance to Save!
New Pricing Coming in 2025.

This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.
Don't miss out, join today and save!

Join AARP

Already a member? Renew or Print Card

Contact AARP
South Carolina

• Email iconSCAARP@aarp.org
• Globe iconAARP South Carolina
• Map Marker iconContact Us

  

Return to top

Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]
Code Context
            <?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }',
	'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
$asset_version = '240925'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = '/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/columbia-sc/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Columbia, SC</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/columbia-sc/happenings/">News Feed</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'News Feed',
		'slug' => 'happenings'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to News Feed',
	'slug' => 'happenings'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]
Code Context
            <?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }',
	'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
$asset_version = '240925'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = '/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/columbia-sc/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Columbia, SC</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/columbia-sc/happenings/">News Feed</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'News Feed',
		'slug' => 'happenings'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to News Feed',
	'slug' => 'happenings'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]
Code Context
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }',
	'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
$asset_version = '240925'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = '/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/columbia-sc/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Columbia, SC</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/columbia-sc/happenings/">News Feed</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'News Feed',
		'slug' => 'happenings'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to News Feed',
	'slug' => 'happenings'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]
Code Context
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }',
	'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
$asset_version = '240925'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = '/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/columbia-sc/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Columbia, SC</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/columbia-sc/happenings/">News Feed</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'News Feed',
		'slug' => 'happenings'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to News Feed',
	'slug' => 'happenings'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }',
	'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
$asset_version = '240925'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = '/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/columbia-sc/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Columbia, SC</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/columbia-sc/happenings/">News Feed</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'News Feed',
		'slug' => 'happenings'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to News Feed',
	'slug' => 'happenings'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }',
	'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">

	<div>    
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 01/21/25 
							</div>
		</div>
		<div class="module-spacer">
			<span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody">
    
        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><b>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:</b><br>January 21, 2025<br><br><b>Contact:</b> Sheree Muse, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="mailto:smuse@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smuse@aarp.org</a></span></span>, 803.403.5071</p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h1 class="inline-heading"><b>Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians, But More Work Is Needed, Says AARP</b></h1></span></span><p><br><b>COLUMBIA, SC— </b>AARP South Carolina applauds Governor Henry McMaster for prioritizing aging-related initiatives in his 2025-26 Executive Budget proposal, but urges lawmakers to take additional steps to further support seniors and improve their quality of life.<br><br><b>Charmaine Fuller Cooper, State Director of AARP South Carolina, issued the following statement:</b><br>“We are pleased to see that Governor McMaster’s budget places a strong emphasis on aging and includes key investments that address the needs of seniors, caregivers, and veterans in South Carolina. These provisions are crucial for helping our aging population live with dignity and independence. However, more must be done to tackle persistent challenges, including prioritizing the needs of nursing home residents and increasing tax relief for caregivers. We urge lawmakers to build on these proposals to ensure all South Carolinians can age with the care and support they deserve.”<br><br>Highlights of the Governor’s budget that AARP supports include:<br></p><ul><li><b>$10 million for Home and Community-Based Services</b>: This funding will reduce the waiting list for seniors needing in-home resources, creating 1,000 additional service slots.</li><li><b>$100 million to address the impact of strokes</b>: Funds will support a new neurological hospital with critical care and rehabilitation units, operated by the University of South Carolina. This builds on last year’s investment in the Brain Health Network and a diagnostic brain imaging center, offering vital support to patients and caregivers.</li><li><b>$20.6 million for veteran nursing homes</b>: Continued funding will enhance care in facilities located in Anderson, Cherokee, Colleton, Florence, and Sumter counties.</li><li><b>$1.5 million to reduce inspection backlogs at healthcare facilities</b>: This investment will improve oversight and help ensure quality of care for patients and residents.</li></ul><p><b>A Call for Additional Legislative Action</b><br>As the state legislature considers the Governor’s budget, AARP South Carolina urges lawmakers to build on these proposals by adopting additional measures to protect and improve the health and financial security of South Carolina’s seniors, including:<br></p><ul><li><b>Increase the state’s nursing facility personal needs allowance: </b>&nbsp;Seniors in South Carolina who cannot afford to pay over $100,000 annually out of pocket for their nursing home facility care, rely on Medicaid to supplement the cost of their care. When that happens, they can only keep $30 per month of their own money for personal expenses like clothing and toiletries—the lowest amount in the nation, tied with Alabama.&nbsp; By comparison, seniors in Georgia and North Carolina can keep $70 per month. Raising the allowance would give nursing home residents more dignity, enabling them to afford essentials such as socks, underwear, or shoes without saving for months.</li><li><b>Enhance the state tax credit for family caregivers:</b> This would help offset the cost of providing unpaid care to seniors and loved ones facing aging issues and health challenges.</li><li><b>Enact a tax credit for essential direct care workers </b>who assist seniors both at home and in facilities.</li></ul><p><b>South Carolina’s Path Forward</b><br>“South Carolina’s ranking of 49th in the nation for long-term care services highlights the urgent need for action,” Fuller Cooper said. “These additional budget measures are critical to improving the lives of seniors, families, and caregivers. Additionally, as South Carolina continues to grow and attract more new workers and businesses, aging supports are essential for work-life balance and supporting business needs. We urge lawmakers to make the changes that will truly make a difference.”<br><br><b>###</b><br><br><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.</i><br></p></div>
    
</div>
</p></span>
		</div>
	</div>

		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP South Carolina. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank">AARP South Carolina</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script>

<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script>

<link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css">

<!--
<script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script>
<link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css">
-->

<!-- bypass -->
<style>
a:focus, a:hover {
    text-decoration: underline;
}
h1.article-headline {
margin: 0 0 1rem;
}
</style>

<!--
<style>
.Enhancement-item .Figure {
margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body ul {
    margin-bottom: 24px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody-body p{
    margin: 12px 0;
}
.RichTextModule-items {
   clear: both;
    display: table;
    width: 100%;
    margin-bottom: 12px;
}
.VideoEnhancement>* {
    color: var(--primaryTextColor);
    font-size: 13px;
    font-weight: 400;
    line-height: 1.4;
    font-style: italic;
    background: #f0efed
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement>* {
        font-size:14px;
        font-weight: 400;
        line-height: 1.47
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-title {
    padding: 20px
}

@media only screen and (min-width: 768px) {
    .VideoEnhancement-title {
        padding:30px
    }
}

.VideoEnhancement-player>* {
    position: relative;
    width: 100%;
    height: 0;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}

.VideoEnhancement iframe {
    border: 0;
    position: absolute;
    top: 0;
    left: 0;
    width: 100%;
    height: 100%
}
[data-video-player] {
    display: block;
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
    height: 0;
    margin: 0 auto;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%;
}

[data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] {
    padding-bottom: 56.25%
}
</style>
--></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" 
	href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive"  
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Columbia</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-ladson-sc-c38166.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-FAITH-SELLERS-SENIOR-CENTER">AARP Smart Driver™: Faith Sellers Senior Center</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Apr 4, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Faith Sellers Senior Center</p>
					<p class="loc">Summerville, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-beech-island-sc-c36330.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-GRACE-UMC">AARP Smart Driver™: Grace Umc</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Wednesday, Apr 9, 2025 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Grace Umc</p>
					<p class="loc">North Augusta, SC</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/driver-safety/aarp-smart-driver-columbia-sc-c35946.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-SMART-DRIVERTM-SEVEN-OAKS-PARKIRMO-CHAPIN-REC">AARP Smart Driver™: Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Apr 10, 2025 at 9:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Seven Oaks Park-irmo Chapin Rec</p>
					<p class="loc">Columbia, SC</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div>
<br />
	<p>
This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br />
</p>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-COLUMBIA-SC">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style> 
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP South Carolina Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 


<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />South Carolina</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:SCAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">SCAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/south-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP South Carolina</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/weve-moved/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-COLUMBIA-SC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPSC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a>



</div>
</div>


</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults & Caregivers</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:January 21, 2025Contact: Sheree Muse, smuse@aarp.org, 803.403.5071Governor’s Budget Includes Key Wins for Aging South Carolinians," name="description"/>
<meta content="AARP, SC, Urges, Lawmakers, Expand, on, Governor, s, Budget, Older, Adults, Caregivers" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/south-carolina/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-sc-urges-lawmakers-to-expand-on-governors-budget-for-older-adults-caregivers-sc-2025-01-21.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="article"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="AARP SC Urges Lawmakers to Expand on Governor’s Budget for Older Adults &amp; Caregivers"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Governor McMaster&#039;s FY 25-26 budget includes key wins for aging South Carolinians, but more work is needed."/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/>
/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
$asset_version = '240925'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = '/* temporary */
.RichTextArticleBody ul {
	padding-left: 20px;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement {
	margin: 40px 0;
}
.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img {
	width: auto;
    max-width: 100% !important;
	height: auto;
}

@media (min-width: 768px) {
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: left;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 20px 20px 0;
	}
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right],
	.RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * {
		float: right;
		max-width: 340px !important;
		margin: 0 0 20px 20px;
	}
}        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/columbia-sc/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Columbia, SC</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/columbia-sc/happenings/">News Feed</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/columbia-sc/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/columbia-sc/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'News Feed',
		'slug' => 'happenings'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to News Feed',
	'slug' => 'happenings'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118