New York State Office for the Aging Director Greg Olsen told a joint legislative hearing on February 5 that Governor Kathy Hochul’s Fiscal Year 2027 Executive State Budget makes what his agency called historic investments in older New Yorkers, prioritizing affordability and public safety measures across programs. The agency said the fiscal plan continues efforts to make New York safer and more affordable while expanding community-based programs and services meant to promote aging with dignity and independence.

According to the Office for the Aging, the governor’s budget proposes to expand the Naturally Occurring Retirement Community model, broaden efforts to combat financial fraud and scams targeting older adults, and streamline access to benefits. The agency framed those measures as part of a broader push to support older residents who want to age in their communities of choice and to provide direct services to the people who care for them.