News

The National Older Worker Career Center (NOWCC) applauds the The Older Worker Opportunity Act of 2005. The legislation, which was introduced by Senator Herbert Kohl on October 6, is an important step toward expanding work opportunities for older Americans.

With many industries anticipating labor shortages due to the impending retirement of the baby boomers, and many older Americans struggling to make ends meet, the legislation comes at a critical juncture. "We have two choices," said NOWCC President Larry Anderson, "We can prepare for an aging workforce now, or pay a heavy price later."

The bill proposes five major initiatives:

• A tax credit for employers that offer flexible work arrangements to older workers, and allow older workers to retain health insurance and pension benefits even when working past retirement age.
• Extends COBRA coverage from 18 to 36 months for workers who are over the age of 62 but not yet eligible for Medicare.
• Expands the dependent care credit to cover the care of chronically ill family members, helping older workers balance the demands of work and caregiving.
• Improves the focus of job training programs on older workers.
• Creates a "Task Force on Older Workers" to further identify barriers to work in current law, and recommend solutions.

Providing employment to older workers benefits both older Americans and their employers. Today, public policy, misdirected business practice, and outdated expectations of aging prevent many from contributing their skills and knowledge to the workforce. With the introduction of the Older Worker Opportunity of Act of 2005, we can begin to correct our course.