News From Minnesota

AARP in Your State

September 2009

Tune in — The state's top health care policymakers will meet for a roundtable discussion in the Twin Cities on Sept. 14. AARP will webcast the event and invites members to log onto www.aarp.org/mn to listen to comments.

Health care reform is AARP's top legislative priority nationwide this year. In Minnesota, AARP is bringing together business leaders, consumer groups, elected officials and health care experts to recommend ways to create sustainable, affordable health care programs.

To stay informed, get involved and keep pressure on Congress to fix the health care system, visit www.aarp.org/mn and click on "Health Action Now."

April 2009

Home economics — AARP Minnesota is working with state Attorney General Lori Swanson, D, to better protect reverse mortgage borrowers.

With retirement investments shriveling, many home-owners age 62 and older are considering reverse mortgages as a way to make ends meet. Such loans allow homeowners to borrow against their home equity without moving out. Even so, there are risks, such as having to pay high upfront costs or falling prey to unscrupulous lenders.

AARP Minnesota is backing legislation (HF 538, SF 489) that would require mandatory counseling about the pros and cons of reverse mortgages, lengthen the time allowed to back out of a reverse mortgage and make it harder for predatory lenders to fleece consumers. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/mn.