After a month-long August district work period, Congress returned to Washington with a limited but important agenda before leaving for much of October to focus on the 2026 midterm elections. The House is back in session this week to consider a continuing resolution (CR) that would fund the federal government through December 11 and thereby avert a September 30 shutdown. The funding bill will be considered tomorrow and will require a two-thirds majority for passage; if passed, the House is expected to break for another 10-day district work period, returning with the Senate in mid-September.
Government funding legislation, appropriations negotiations, and other must-pass legislative vehicles provide important opportunities to advance Argentum’s federal policy priorities. In the weeks ahead, Argentum will be meeting with lawmakers and congressional staff on key priorities, including passage of the Older Americans Act reauthorization—already unanimously passed by the Senate and which includes the authorization of a new White House Conference on Aging that Argentum has sought—along with appropriations legislation, tax legislation, and other opportunities to attach our priorities.
The months ahead will also build on the relationships many senior living stakeholders helped strengthen during the August district work period. Across the country, members of Congress spent time in their states and districts meeting with constituents, touring communities, and learning firsthand about the role senior living plays in supporting older adults. Those conversations provide valuable context as lawmakers return to Washington and begin considering funding and policy decisions that affect the sector.
Lawmakers will be back in their states and district throughout October. All Argentum members are encouraged to invite lawmakers for a visit during this time. Our Congressional Invitation Tool is designed to simplify outreach to federal lawmakers. By entering a community address, users can quickly identify the U.S. Senators and Representative who serve their community and access a prewritten invitation letter tailored for congressional outreach. The tool helps connect communities with the appropriate congressional offices and makes it easier than ever to invite lawmakers for an on-site visit.