New York State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. announced the passage of S.7160A before the end of the 2026 legislative session, a bill he co-sponsored, to establish a Senior Center Council within the New York State Office for the Aging. The bill passed both the Senate and Assembly and now awaits consideration by the Governor.

The legislation seeks to ensure that senior centers are equipped to meet the needs of the fast-growing senior population throughout the state. The Senior Center Council will serve as an advisory panel focused on identifying challenges, recommending solutions, and promoting the long-term sustainability of senior centers.

“Senior centers are more than gathering places. They provide social engagement, nutritional support, educational opportunities, wellness programs, and critical services that help older adults remain healthy, active, and connected,” said Addabbo. “As New York’s senior population continues to expand, we must proactively ensure these centers have the resources and support necessary to serve future generations. Establishing the Senior Center Council will provide an important forum to address emerging challenges and strengthen these critical institutions in our communities.”

Under the legislation, the ten-member Senior Center Council will be established within the New York State Office for the Aging and charged with examining issues affecting senior centers throughout the state. The council will meet within 180 days of the law's enactment and annually thereafter, to provide recommendations and strategies to address funding, programming, infrastructure, resource needs, and other concerns impacting senior centers.

“Advocating for older New Yorkers remains one of my priorities,” Addabbo added. “I was proud to join my colleagues in supporting this legislation and look forward to seeing the positive impact the Senior Center Council will have on communities in my Senate district, and throughout New York.”

New York’s older adult population is among the fastest-growing demographics in the state, with projections showing significant growth over the coming decades. Advocates have emphasized the importance of planning now to ensure that senior centers can keep up with the changing needs of older adults while continuing to provide the services that help thousands of New Yorkers age with dignity and independence.