Legislation Search

H.R. 4151: Ruthie and Connie LGBTQI Elder Americans Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Ruthie and Connie LGBTQI Elder Americans Act of 2025, aims to amend the Older Americans Act of 1965 to enhance the treatment and support for LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex) older individuals. The main provisions of the bill include:

1. Definitions Update

The bill updates the definitions within the Older Americans Act to explicitly include status as an LGBTQI individual and status as an HIV individual. It also clarifies the term "minority" to encompass LGBTQI individuals.

2. Administration on Aging Enhancements

The bill establishes an Office of LGBTQI Inclusion within the Administration on Aging to focus on the needs of LGBTQI older individuals. This office will:

Coordinate activities across federal agencies to improve services for LGBTQI older adults.
Promote access to aging services for this population.
Collect and share information about the challenges faced by LGBTQI older individuals.
Administer grants aimed at improving access to aging services for LGBTQI older individuals.

3. National Resource Center

A National Resource Center on LGBTQI Aging will be established to provide support to local and state organizations that serve LGBTQI individuals. The Center’s objectives include:

Educating aging services organizations about the specific needs of LGBTQI older individuals.
Sensitizing LGBTQI organizations about the needs of older adults.
Providing educational resources for LGBTQI older individuals and their caregivers.

4. Grants for Organizations

The bill enables grants to be awarded to organizations serving LGBTQI individuals, ensuring that these organizations can provide necessary services to this demographic.

5. Focus on Health and Longevity

It emphasizes activities aimed at improving health and providing support services that address the needs of LGBTQI older individuals, including health disparities and long-term care.

6. Data Collection on Discrimination

The bill mandates the collection and analysis of data regarding discrimination against LGBTQI older individuals in long-term care settings. This includes tracking any discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or sex characteristics.

7. Ongoing Reporting and Assessment

The Director of the Office of LGBTQI Inclusion is required to submit a report every five years on the activities and effectiveness of the services aimed at benefiting LGBTQI older individuals.