Action Network on Capitol Hill
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U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) introduces the IRL Act that Invests in the Places and Programs That Bring People Together
The Foundation for Social Connection Action Network (F4SCAN) is excited to support the introduction of the In Real Life (IRL) Act, new federal legislation from U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) that puts social connection and community infrastructure at the center of the policy conversation. At a time when loneliness and social isolation are taking a significant toll on individuals, communities, and our nation, the IRL Act offers a new approach: generating dedicated resources to invest in the places, programs, and institutions that bring people together. We are excited about the possibilities this legislation presents—and we hope its introduction is just…
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Federal Policy Update: Advancing Social Connection in the FY 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule
The Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule for FY27 was released earlier this month and includes several key areas relating to social isolation and loneliness.
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U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduce the Addressing Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults (SILO) Act
Murphy, Gillibrand Introduce Bill to Help Seniors Struggling with Loneliness, Connect Aging and Disabled Americans to Community
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U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) introduces the National Strategy for Social Connection Act
Murphy Introduces Bill to Tackle Loneliness and Social Disconnection, Improve the Spiritual Health of Our Democracy
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Foundation for Social Connection Action Network Featured on CBS Evening News’ Eye on America
We’re on CBS Evening News! Last night’s Eye on America segment highlighted the growing public health crisis of social isolation and loneliness among older adults—and we’re proud that the Foundation for Social Connection Action Network played a key role in developing the story. CBS News reached out to us to explore how disconnection impacts well-being and to showcase promising solutions. We’re especially thrilled that DOROT, one of our incredible Action Network members, was featured for their impactful intergenerational programming that brings older and younger people together to build meaningful relationships. Andrew MacPherson, Executive Chair and Founder of the ACTION NETWORK,…
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Special Senate Committee on Aging “Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and Community Support”
Today, at the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, our Founder & Board Chair, Andrew MacPherson, delivered a powerful testimony on the urgent need to combat social isolation and loneliness among older adults. 🔹 The Reality: 🔹 Policy Solutions: ✅ Pass the SENIOR Act to ensure funding supports social connection programs.✅ Expand access to senior services like nutrition programs, senior centers, and rural aging initiatives.✅ Invest in intergenerational programs to foster meaningful connections across age groups.✅ Bridge the digital divide by increasing broadband access for older adults.✅ Enhance Medicare coverage for loneliness screenings, peer support, and non-medical transportation. He also…
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U.S. Representatives Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA-06) and Mike Flood (R-NE-01) have reintroduced the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act
U.S. Representatives Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA-06) and Mike Flood (R-NE-01) have reintroduced the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act, a crucial step toward addressing the public health crisis of social disconnection. As social isolation and loneliness continue to impact millions, this bipartisan effort aims to standardize how these issues are measured—ensuring data-driven solutions that can lead to effective policy and intervention. Why This Bill Matters Loneliness and social isolation have been recognized as a public health epidemic by the former U.S. Surgeon General, contributing to increased risks of chronic diseases, mental health struggles, and even premature death. Despite widespread…
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Senators Rick Scott & Tina Smith Reintroduce SENIOR Act to Address Senior Loneliness
The Foundation for Social Connection Action Network applauds Senators Rick Scott (R-FL) and Tina Smith (D-MN) for reintroducing the Social Engagement and Network Initiatives for Older Relief (SENIOR) Act, a bipartisan effort to combat senior loneliness and promote community integration.About the SENIOR Act The SENIOR Act takes critical steps to address the growing public health concern of loneliness and social isolation among older adults. If passed, the bill will: ✔ Recognize Loneliness as a Health Concern – The bill adds “loneliness” to the Older Americans Act (OAA) definition of disease prevention and health promotion services, allowing states to use federal…
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Stabilize Medicaid and CHIP Coverage Act
We, the undersigned organizations representing consumers, family members, providers, advocates, nonprofit and other health plans, and additional stakeholders, are committed to strengthening peoples’ access to high-quality health coverage and care. We urge you to support 12-month continuous eligibility for adults in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) by passing the Stabilize Medicaid and CHIP Coverage Act