Tag Archives for Senior Agenda Coalition of RI

Senior Agenda Coalition of RI pushes wealth tax to fund programs for older residents

Published in RINewsToday on June 2, 2025

With the recent passage of the House Republican budget—which cuts some programs and services for seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, and families with children—Sulma Arias, Executive Director of Chicago-based People’s Action (PA), is calling on billionaires and large corporations to finally pay their fair share of taxes.

Senator Bernie Sanders has echoed similar sentiments on the national stage, urging lawmakers to ensure that ultra-wealthy individuals and powerful corporations contribute more equitably to the nation’s economic well-being, rather than shifting the burden to everyday Americans by cutting essential services.

In Rhode Island, Democratic lawmakers are advancing legislation this session that would increase taxes on the state’s highest earners to generate vital revenue for public programs and services.

Proposed Legislation Targets Top Earners

HB 5473, introduced on February 12, 2025, by Rep. Karen Alzate (D-Dist. 60, Pawtucket, Central Falls), was referred to the House Finance Committee. The bill proposes a 3% surtax on taxable income above $625,000—on top of the existing 5.99% rate—targeting the top 1% of Rhode Island tax filers. The surtax is projected to raise approximately $190 million annually and would affect about 5,700 of the state’s more than 500,000 filers. If enacted, the tax would apply to income earned in tax years beginning in 2026 and would not be retroactive.

As of the May 6 House Finance Committee hearing, about 140 pieces of written testimony had been submitted on HB 5473. The committee held the bill for further study, with no additional action yet taken. The proposal remains under consideration as part of ongoing budget negotiations.

A companion bill, S. 329, was introduced in the Senate by Sen. Melissa Murray (D-Dist. 24, Woonsocket, North Smithfield) and referred to the Senate Finance Committee. A hearing on the measure was held last Thursday, and the bill was also held for further study.

As the volume of testimony indicates, the battle lines are clearly drawn. Progressive groups and unions support the legislation, while businesses and business organizations, such as the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, have voiced strong opposition. Governor Dan McKee has not yet taken a public position on the bills.

The Pros and Cons

Supporters argue that with Rhode Island facing a $220 million budget deficit, HB 5473 and S. 329 could raise nearly $190 million annually to fund critical services, including: K-12 and higher education; health care; housing; public transportation; affordable child care; infrastructure, and programs for older adults

They contend that the proposals would bolster the state’s safety net, particularly in light of uncertain federal funding. A more progressive tax structure, they argue, would make the system fairer by reducing the burden on middle- and lower-income residents. Currently, the top 1% of Rhode Island taxpayers control a disproportionate share of the state’s wealth but, when accounting for sales and property taxes, pay a smaller share of their income than lower-income households.

Opponents, however, warn of unintended consequences. They claim the bills would drive wealthy residents and businesses out of the state, eroding the tax base.Supporters dispute this, pointing to IRS and Stanford University studies indicating that wealthy individuals typically relocate for family or climate-related reasons—not for tax considerations. States like California and New Jersey, they note, have implemented similar surtaxes without experiencing significant outmigration.

Morally, proponents argue, those with more resources have a responsibility to help those with less—especially in a post-COVID era when many low-income families continue to struggle.

Yet critics, including the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council (RIPEC) along with the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce and businesses, warn that such a tax could signal to entrepreneurs and investors that Rhode Island is “business unfriendly.” They contend that higher income taxes might discourage business investment and hiring, harming the state’s long-term economic prospects.

Some opponents cite Connecticut’s experience in the early 2010s, when a handful of wealthy taxpayers reportedly relocated after tax hikes, resulting in noticeable revenue loss. Given that a small number of high earners contribute a significant share of state income tax revenue, even limited outmigration could have an outsized fiscal impact, critics argue.

Skeptics also question whether new revenue will be reliably dedicated to education, infrastructure, and social programs. They point out that in the past, even funds placed in restricted accounts were sometimes redirected to fill budget shortfalls.

Aging Programs and Services at a Crossroads

“Rhode Island stands at a crossroads,” warns Carol Anne Costa, Executive Director of the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island (SACRI). With a projected $220 million deficit and potential federal cuts to programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, and services provided by the Office of Healthy Aging, Costa insists that passing HB 5473 and S. 329 is essential to preserve and expand supports for older adults and people with disabilities.

“Most of our state’s older residents are not wealthy,” Costa notes, citing Census data showing that one in four older households earns less than $25,000 annually, and 45% earn less than $50,000. Only about 8% of older households earn more than $200,000.

In FY 2023, 27,535 Rhode Islanders aged 65 and older were enrolled in Medicaid, which funds the majority of long-term services not covered by Medicare. In addition, 14% of older adults in the state relied on SNAP benefits to help cover food costs.

Costa argues that revenue from the proposed surtax could ensure continued funding for these essential programs and expand the Medicare Savings Program. Such an expansion could save low-income seniors and adults with disabilities up to $185 per month in Medicare Part B premiums—money they need for food, housing, and transportation.

While critics warn of wealthy residents fleeing Rhode Island if taxes increase, Costa cites a comprehensive report by the Economic Progress Institute refuting this claim. “In fact, the data suggests the opposite,” she says. “Higher-income tax filers are moving into Rhode Island more than they are leaving.”

Costa also points to Massachusetts as a real-world example. After voters approved a 4% surtax on income over $1 million in 2022, the number of Massachusetts residents with a net worth over $1 million increased from 441,610 to 612,109 by 2024, according to an April report from the Institute for Policy Studies and the State Revenue Alliance.

Business Community Pushes Back

At the House Finance Committee hearing, Laurie White, President of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, voiced strong opposition to the proposed tax.

“Our views reflect those of thousands of local businesses statewide,” she said. “Rhode Island is already in fierce competition with neighboring states to attract and retain businesses, residents, and talent.”

White warned that the surtax would send the wrong message, particularly as Rhode Island invests in high-wage sectors like life sciences and technology. “Tax burden is a key factor in business decisions, and an increase in personal income tax would significantly reduce Rhode Island’s appeal,” she stated.

House GOP Minority Leader Michael W. Chippendale (R-Dist. 40, Coventry, Foster, Gloucester) echoed White’s sentiments: “Taxing people who have worked hard and become prosperous is an insult to the American dream. We shouldn’t be punishing success—we should be creating an economic environment where everyone can thrive. Driving away high-income residents with more taxes is backward thinking.”

Chief of Staff Sue Stenhouse confirmed that the entire 10-member House Republican caucus stands united in opposition to the surtax.

The Washington, DC-based Tax Foundation also weighed in. In written testimony on S. 329, Senior Policy & Research Manager Katherine Loughead stated that if the surtax were enacted, Rhode Island would move from having the 14th-highest to the 8th-highest top marginal state income tax rate in the nation—excluding the District of Columbia. She warned that this could make Rhode Island less attractive to high-income earners than even Massachusetts.

So What’s Next?

Costa maintains that taxing the wealthiest residents may be both a necessary and viable solution to protect the state’s safety net amid budget shortfalls and looming federal cuts.

However, with HB 5473 and S. 329 still being held for further study, it remains unclear whether they will be included in the final state budget.

“As we approach the final weeks of the session, there is no shortage of meritorious proposals that affect state resources,” said House Speaker Joseph Shekarchi (D-Dist. 23, Warwick). “The uncertainty of the federal funding picture and the numerous holes in the Governor’s proposed budget complicate both balancing this year’s budget and planning for the unknown. I continue to keep many options on the table for this challenging task.”

Stay tuned—SACRI and other aging advocacy groups are watching closely to see what options will be considered by the House Speaker when he releases FY 2026 state budget to address funding for programs and services that support Rhode Island’s growing older population in this difficult fiscal year.

To read submitted emails and testimony on S. 329, go to https://www.rilegislature.gov/senators/SenateComDocs/Pages/Finance%202025.aspx.

To read written testimony submitted on HB 5473, go to https://www.rilegislature.gov/Special/comdoc/Pages/House%20Finance%202025.aspx.

Lawmakers consider bill to combat fraud at crypto kiosks

Published in RINewsToday on April 7, 2025

Maybe the second time will be the charm. After the Rhode Island General Assembly failed to address the issue of preventing criminals from using cryptocurrency (Crypto) ATMs to steal from older Rhode Islanders, AARP Rhode Island is renewing its effort to regulate the state’s 120 crypto kiosks and safeguard older residents.

More than 45,000 crypto kiosks, which resemble bank ATMs, allow users to conduct legitimate cryptocurrency transactions, such as sending money to digital wallets. However, unlike banks and other financial services, these kiosks in Rhode Island are not regulated and lack critical fraud protections.

In 2023, the FBI received over 5,500 complaints involving crypto kiosks, with older adults disproportionately affected by scams. In Rhode Island alone, victims lost $10 million to cryptocurrency scams. The Rhode Island State Police also reported a rise in cryptocurrency ATM scams, with 40 cases reported in 2024 and already 21 cases in early 2025.

With fraud spreading through supermarkets, convenience stores, and gas stations, the Washington, D.C. based AARP is working with 17 of its state affiliates, including Rhode Island, to draft and pass bills incorporating daily transaction limits, state operator licensing requirements, scam warnings, and refund options for fraud victims.

Fighting Fraud and Exploitation

Introduced on Jan. 22, 2025, HB 5121, introduced by Rep. Julie Casimiro (D-Dist. 31, North Kingstown, Exeter), aims to license cryptocurrency kiosk operators and mandate the posting of fraud warnings. It also requires Kiosks to display terms and conditions before transactions, including any fees charged and exchange rates. Additionally, it would set fee caps at either $5 or 3% per transaction, and mandate paper receipts containing relevant transactional information.  The bill was referred to the House Committee on Innovation & Technology.

The bill would also require crypto operators to refund transactions and ATM fees in cases of fraud, and impose daily transaction limits to mitigate high-risk  transactions.

On Feb. 11, 2025, the House Committee on Innovation & Technology held its hearing to discuss HB 5121. Supporters and critics testified on its merit.

Written Testimony Highlights


Catherine Taylor, AARP Rhode Island’s State Director, urged lawmakers to pass HB 5121, citing the growing issue of crypto fraud. She referenced Federal Trade Commission (FTC) data showing that, in 2022, the actual amount stolen through fraud was likely closer to $137.4 billion – far exceeding the report $9 billion.

Matthew Netto, AARP Associate State Director, also submitted written testimony, citing a 2023 case where the founders of the Bitcoin of America ATM network were arrested for money laundering and conspiracy (in Ohio), with a focus on defrauding elderly victims. He emphasized that while cryptocurrency is a legitimate form of currency, gaining in popularity, it has become an increasingly attractive tool for criminals. He called on lawmakers to protect older Rhode Islanders, stating that the point of transfer is the best place to deter crime.

Attorney General Peter F. Neronha echoed these concerns, noting the difficulties of navigating the volatile crypto market.  Rhode Island’s top law enforcement officer urged lawmakers to adopt regulations for the operation of crypto kiosks and requiring disclosure of all material risks prior to virtual currency transactions.

Larry Lipka, General Counsel for Coinflip, a global digital currency platform company, expressed cautious support for HB 5121, stating his company supports most provision, some elements – such as the fee cap and physical receipt requirement – could inadvertently encourage less transparency and compliance efforts that help protect consumers. He also raised concern about the bill’s transaction limits, which could undermine anti-money laundering efforts.

Ethan McClelland, Bitcoin Depot’s Director of Government Relations also expressed support for the bill but warned that certain provisions, particularly daily transaction limits and the fee cap, would make it difficult for operators to continue operating in Rhode Island. The company is the largest operator of cryptocurrency kiosks in the United States.

Sen. Victoria Gu (D-Dist. 38, Westerly, Charlestown, South Kingston), introduced, SB 16, the Senate companion measure.  After a March 18, 2025 hearing before the Senate Commerce Commit the legislative proposal was held for further study.


The Art of Compromise
Following concerns raised during the hearings, the House committee recommended further study of HB 5121. Subsequently, AARP Rhode Island met with Rep. Julie Casimiro, the sponsor of HB 5121, and crypto industry representatives, leading to compromises that satisfied both regulatory advocates and the crypto ATM industry.

As a result of this compromise, the revised version of  HB 5121 was passed on March 27, 2025, by a vote of 10-0.  HB 5121 Sub. A sets daily transaction limits of $2,000 for new customers and $5,000 for existing customers, aligning with regulations in Connecticut.  The fee cap provisions were removed, and physical receipt requirements will take effect in Nov. 2025, while other provisions become law upon passage.

The initial bill required operators to provide full refunds to new customers. In the revised version, new customers must request a full refund within 30 days if they claim fraudulent inducement.

Looking Ahead

The House is expected to vote on HB 5121 Substitute A on Thursday, April 10, 2025. If it passes the Senate must act. With three months left in the 2025 legislative session, an amended version of SB has yet to be introduced.  However, there is ample time for the Senate to amend SB 16 to align with the House version.  Once both chambers pass identical bills, they must be signed by Governor Dan McKee to become law.

If the crypto regulation bill does not pass the Rhode Island General Assembly this year, lawmakers may try again next year.  Will the third time be the charm?

Attorney General Peter Neronha, General Treasurer James Diossa, Senior Agenda Coalition of RI, Westerly Police Department, the Village Common of Rhode Island, Rhode Island Coalition of Elder Justice, Rhode Island State Police and dozens of older Rhode Islanders join the AARP in supporting HB 5121 Sub. A and SB 16.

To watch the House Committee on Innovation & Technology’s  Feb. 11 hearing (HB 5121), go to https://capitoltvri.cablecast.tv/show/10801?site=1. Or its March 27 hearing, go to https://capitoltvri.cablecast.tv/show/11030?site=1.

To watch the Senate Commerce Committees March 18 hearing (SB 16), go to https://capitoltvri.cablecast.tv/show/10973?site=1

AARP provides tips and resources on how you can protect yourself against cryptocurrency ATM scams, go to  https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/crypto-atm/.

Writer Herb Weiss attains archive status: a legacy of 45 years of advocacy on aging

Published on April 2, 2025

The substantial body of work compiled by Herb Weiss—a 72-page list detailing 1,111 articles on aging, plus three books published over 45 years—now has a permanent home at Rhode Island College’s (RIC) Special Collections, housed in the James P. Adams Library. The archive, titled the Herbert P. Weiss Papers, 1980 to 2025, is a significant addition to RIC’s archives.

This newly established collection spans Weiss’s career as a writer, editor, and journalist, documenting his contributions to the field of aging, senior life, healthcare, and public policy. The collection includes a range of publications that

Weiss contributed to as a writer, editor, or editorial board member. These publications—magazines, newspapers, newsletters, and trade journals—cover topics such as aging, senior life, healthcare, and federal and state policy issues.

In addition to his articles, the collection features various degrees, certificates, and awards Weiss has earned throughout his education and career.

Weiss’s journalistic career began long before he was a staff writer intern (a three-month position) for the Providence Journal. He has since written columns and digital news commentaries on aging for outlets such as the Pawtucket Times, Woonsocket Call, Senior Digest, Senior Living (now Prime Time), and RINewsToday. Weiss holds a Master of Arts in Studies in Aging and a Specialist Certificate in Aging from North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas). He also spent years covering health and long-term care policy as an accredited House Gallery Reporter in Washington, D.C., for various publications.

Weiss has contributed his expertise to the editorial boards of McKnight’s LTC News and The Brown University LTC Quality Letter. His “Age Beat” column, which has been a staple for local readers in Rhode Island, reflects his dedication to covering generational issues with depth and insight.
Weiss has published three volumes of his column compilations: Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly (2016), Taking Charge: Vol. 2 – More Stories on Aging Boldly (2021), and his recently released third volume, Taking Charge: Vol. 3 – Even More Stories on Aging Boldly.

Service to the Community and Advocacy

In addition to his journalistic work, Weiss has served as Pawtucket’s arts and cultural “ambassador” and as the deputy director of the Leon Mathieu Senior Center. He has been appointed to the Rhode Island Advisory Commission on Aging by five different governors and, in 2021, was tapped by Rhode Island Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio to serve on the Advisory Council on Alzheimer’s Disease Research and Treatment.

Weiss’s impact extends beyond his writing: one local restaurant even named a lobster salad (delicious) and a hamburger (dangerous) in his honor. Recently, a small café also named a decadent breakfast sandwich after him, called “The Herb Weiss Breakfast Sandwich.”

Weiss hopes that the archive will provide researchers, students, and journalists with valuable historical context on aging policy and community issues from the past four decades. His work, particularly in understanding aging-related public policy, will be a helpful resource for professionals in aging services, healthcare, social work, and gerontology.

The Value of the Collection at RIC

Housed in RIC’s Special Collections, the Weiss archive is poised to benefit generations of students, researchers, and professionals. The collection not only preserves the history of aging policy in Rhode Island and in Congress but also serves as a vital resource for anyone involved in or studying aging-related topics.

The value of this collection lies not only in the breadth of its coverage but also in its unique perspective—Weiss has chronicled aging issues from a journalistic standpoint, grounded in personal experience. His columns explore complex issues like healthcare, caregiving, and retirement, offering readers practical advice as well as a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by older adults.

The Herbert P. Weiss Papers collection offers insights into the evolution of aging policies and practices, highlighting both local Rhode Island issues and broader national trends, especially pulling the findings from AARP reports, studies and polls For students and professionals in fields such as nursing, healthcare administration, gerontology, and social work, the collection provides a solid foundation of knowledge. It will also inform the work of aging professionals, enabling them to better advocate for older adults and their families.

What They’re Saying About the Herbert P. Weiss Papers collection at Rhode Island College

Numerous aging network professionals, providers and elected officials have praised the significance of the Herbert P. Weiss Papers at RIC. Some have recognized Weiss for his tireless work on aging issues, others have lauded the collection’s contribution to expanding access to vital research on aging. One even commented on the collection’s role in tackling pressing issues such as Medicare reform and family caregiving. Others noted that this collection would become an invaluable resource for students, faculty, and policymakers alike.

Let us take a look at their comments…

“I am so pleased to have the opportunity to praise the action of Rhode Island College in establishing the collection of the works of Herb Weiss’s reports on aging in Rhode Island over the years. The reports have recognized the evolution of the enormous challenges faced by our large aging population and inspired the people who worked tirelessly to address them.

I met Herb when he worked for the Pawtucket Times and the City of Pawtucket. Back then, we both served as members of the Governor’s Commission on Aging. The committee members were younger then and were mostly leaders in agencies, service providers and dedicated professionals. I came to recognize the young reporter (Herb) and his deep commitment to solving the daunting challenges we faced.

Herb has never let up on his efforts and his writings are full of insights and useful information presented in multiple articles and reports which are all factual and frequently memorable. He has gained readers among leaders, researchers and others of all ages. His writings are a great resource for the public, and the state’s Office of Elderly Affairs.

Herb is a true champion for all as we age.”
Kathleen Connell, Past Secretary of State of Rhode Island, Past Director of AARP Rhode Island

“Herb Weiss’s collection at Rhode Island College is a treasure trove of invaluable insights that have not only shaped the conversation on aging, but also influenced key policies at both the state and national levels. His tireless dedication to addressing the challenges of an aging population is reflected in his extensive body of work. The establishment of the Herbert P. Weiss Papers at RIC will serve as a lasting resource for future generations of students, researchers, and policymakers, ensuring that Herb’s contributions to aging policy remain accessible for years to come. It is an honor to have his remarkable legacy preserved in such a meaningful way.”

Robin Covington, Coalition Director – Rhode Island Coalition for Elder Justice

“What an honor to hold the Herb Weiss collections at Rhode Island College and so well deserved! I especially enjoy Taking Charge: Stories on Aging Boldly where Herb Weiss offers practical tools to live a happy, fulfilled life and interviews experts and everyday people who share their keen observations about growing older.”

Patricia Raskin, Broadcaster “Positive Living and Aging”PBS and Cumulus Afffiliates and Southcoast Health Podcasts

“Herb is a respected leader and trusted authority in the aging field, as evidenced by his appointments by the last five governors to provide crucial guidance to the Advisory Commission on Aging. We are excited that his remarkable collection will be showcased at Rhode Island College’s James P. Adam’s Library, increasing visibility of his work and expanding access to his writings, which have made a significant contribution over the past 45 years in support of the nation’s aging population.”

Meghan Grady, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of RI, Inc. and Chair of the Advisory Commission on Aging.

”It’s fantastic to have the collective works of Herb Weiss’s many insightful insights on aging organized in one place for all to benefit from his years of experience in aging.”

Sarah Lenz Lock, SVP Policy & Brain Health, AARP

“Herb Weiss has an incredible dedication to shining a light on so many issues involving aging. This collection will be an invaluable resource in further understanding the myriad of important topics that he has addressed in his decades of insightful writing.”

Larry Berman, Director of Communications, Rhode Island House of Representatives

A wealth of Herb Weiss’ keen observations and insights with respect to all things healthy aging, is now housed at Rhode Island College, to the benefit of students, researchers, and professionals in aging work. This treasure trove will be a tremendous asset to those seeking context or to understand the broad range of issues facing older Rhode Islanders and their caregivers. The Weiss collection will also inform the work of countless aging work professionals and provide a solid foundation for students pursuing their education in nursing, gerontology, healthcare administration, as well as social work.

James B. Connell, Age-Friendly RI

“Herb Weiss’s reporting on aging has helped shape our state’s long-term care services. As Lieutenant Governor, I have often relied on his writing to both stay informed on the issues of the day and to learn about the history of aging policy in Rhode Island which he has covered over his long career. The Herbert P. Weiss Collection at RIC James P. Adams Library will ensure that generations to come are able to access his reporting, and I am glad to see the importance of his work recognized in this way.”

RI Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos

“Herb Weiss has long been a guiding voice in the conversation around aging, capturing both the personal journey and the broader policy landscape with clarity and depth. His work distills complex research into accessible articles that educate the public, influence policymakers, and support older adults, their families, and caregivers. His collection of articles, now housed in the “Herbert P. Weiss Papers collection at Rhode Island College’s (RIC) James P. Adams Library, tackle pressing issues such as Social Security and Medicare reform, affordable housing, and the challenges of family caregiving. His tenacity and commitment to truth make his articles an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand aging in America today. More than just a policy discussion, the collection is a roadmap for navigating the later years of life with knowledge and confidence.

Whether you’re an advocate, a professional in elder care, or simply planning for your own future, RIC’s archives of his work offers essential insights into the evolving landscape of aging—one well-researched story at a time.”

John E. Gage, MBA, NHA, President & CEO, Rhode Island Health Care Association

“Herb Weiss has dedicated his career to illuminating the complexities of aging and retirement, providing invaluable insight and advocacy for older adults. Through his thoughtful journalism and deep expertise, he has shaped public understanding and influenced policy discussions, ensuring that aging issues remain at the forefront. His work has had a profound impact, empowering individuals and communities with the knowledge needed to navigate later life with dignity and confidence. It has been an honor and privilege to have now published three volumes of his collected works.”
Steven R. Porter, Publisher, Stillwater River Publications, West Warwick, RI

“Herb Weiss’s 3 book compendium is a one of a kind collection, illustrating the complex social, economic, and political dynamics that surround and influence elder care in our country. This is a vital resource for all professionals who have anything to do with elders and their families. Herb’s sensitivity to these matters emerges from his various roles as a professional himself – a noted author, a devotee to culture and art, a background as a former Nursing Facility Administrator and an opinion writer on all legislative issues related to elders at local and national levels. This recognition of him at Rhode Island College brings honor indeed to the institution.”

Teresa Chopoorian, EdD, MSN, FNAP, Vice President and Administrator , Mansion Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; Fellow, National Academy of Practice , Nursing

“Herb Weiss has worked tirelessly over many years to keep Rhode Island’s aging population informed about the issues that matter most and highlight policy areas and proposals that otherwise might not receive wider attention. Congratulations to Herb and Rhode Island College for creating this valuable resource.”

Dominick J. Ruggerio, President of the Senate

“Herb Weiss has helped countless people better understand aging, caregiving, and the politics of long term care through his clear and accessible writing. His books and articles have educated and inspired readers across Rhode Island and beyond. As a RI College alum, it is great to know that the Herbert Weiss Papers collection will be available at Adams Library for the students, professionals, and the community for years to come!”

Deb Burton, Ms., Executive Director & Gerontologist, RI Elder Info.

“Herb Weiss for many years has been a tireless, committed researcher and writer regarding the issues that face our increasingly older population. I always read his work with interest and believe his writings will be a valuable resource for students, faculty, politicians, and others who earnestly seek to address the needs of those of us who are elders in the community.”

Dr. Nancy Carriuolo, Rhode Island College president 2008-2016

“As a journalist Herb has always adhered to the most critical qualities of objectivity, integrity and just plain good understandable writing, coupled with his keen sense for a story that needs to be told,” states Bill Benson, former Acting Assistant Secretary for Aging at the U.S. Administration on Aging who leadership position in the US Senate and House of Representatives. Rhode Island College is to be commended for providing a permanent home for Herb’s collection, says Benson. “These are worrisome times with journalism under assault.” Hopefully those reviewing the Herbert P. Weiss collection in the future who care about aging in America will find inspiration and a model for quality writing on these important matters, he said.

Bill Benson, Former Acting Assistant Secretary for Aging at the U.S. Administration on Aging who spent 8 years working in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives

“We appreciate Herb Weiss’s donation and believe that it will be beneficial to RIC students and the broader Rhode Island community interested in the topics of healthcare, policy, and aging.Thank you!”

Veronica L. Denison, Assistant Professor, Digital Archivist and Special Collections Librarian, James P. Adams Library, Rhode Island College

“Herb has chronicled over 45 years of aging in America and locally. No one individual has been so attentive and dedicated to older adult reporting on emerging healthcare concerns, social security and financial matters, caregiving, socialization, volunteering, nutrition, etc. This collection provides enormous historical access for social & healthcare workers, geriatric case managers, policy makers, and elected officials. Readers should want to immerse themselves in these insightful and instructive stories. Well done, Herb!”

Vincent Marzullo, former Federal Director/Corp. for National & Community Service (RI); past volunteer President, AARP RI; Board member/Senior Agenda Coalition of RI.

“We are thrilled and honored to hold the Herb Weiss collections at Rhode Island College. No one has made more contributions to the field of aging and long term care through their journalism and writing than Herb. Herb has studied and tracked policies, issues, trends, legislation, and best practices in long term care for years and provided invaluable research, commentary, analysis, and a historical perspective. Most important, he has engaged with the community, policy makers, providers, and older adults themselves and has fully immersed himself in the field.

Having his collection at Rhode Island College will provide an invaluable asset and resource to faculty, students, researchers and those shaping policies on services and supports to older adults. As the population is rapidly growing older, his work has become increasingly more relevant and important today and in the future.”

Marianne Raimondo, MS, MSW, LICSW, Ph.D., Dean, School of Business, Rhode Island College

“Until now, Herb Weiss has been a virtual walking archive of information about retirement issues and policy debates about aging in America. Now, thanks to RIC’s Adams Library, anyone, including Weiss, will literally be able to walk in (or dip in online) and access one of the rarest continuous files of media coverage on this vital topic over most of the past half century. Uniquely researched and written from the perspective of a single journalist and public policy professional, the Herbert P. Weiss Papers should stand as an historical treasury for researchers and students in the years to come.”

Paul Kleyman, Cofounder, Journalists Network on Generations/Editor, GBONewss.org.

“It is an honor to be asked for a quote on Herb Weiss’ work for your archiving his writings. As the former Chief of Staff of the House Aging Committee and since then a spokesman at the White House and after, I’ve had the privilege of working with Herb Weiss for decades. Herb Weiss is the best and most knowledgeable aging issues writer in the country. He has informed not only Rhode Island but the Nation on problems and solutions for the elderly. His work will finally be archived and protected as the national treasure that it is. His historical record is invaluable and an incomparable resource for researchers, writers, and students.”

Robert S. Weiner, Former Chief of Staff, U.S. House Aging Committee under Chairman Claude Pepper, spokesman in the Clinton and Bush White Houses, and spokesman/senior staff for Cong. Claude Pepper, Charles Rangel, John Conyers, Ed Koch, Sen. Ted Kennedy, and Four-Star Gen./Drug Czar Barry McCaffrey – Winner, National Press Club President’s Award for recruiting young journalists as co-bylined oped writers (1000+ articles to date (www.weinerpublic.com/opeds).
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“Herb Weiss has set the highest standard for writing on important aging policy issues. He does more than write. He provokes people to take action. He is the best journalist advocate I know.”
Bob Blancato, Executive Director, National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs, DC

“Herb Weiss is an indispensable conduit for real-time news that gives us what is increasingly disappearing: honesty, transparency, fact-based And an amalgam of big-picture and personal stories about aging and the human condition—a real treasure!”

Fernando Torres-Gil, M.S.W., Ph.D., Director, UCLA Center for Policy Research on Aging; Professor, Social Welfare and Public Policy, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs

“Herb’s contributions have been a guiding light in the field of aging, illuminating critical issues with compassion, clarity, and a relentless pursuit of the truth. This collection is a well-deserved tribute to his decades of impactful journalism and advocacy.”
John O’Connor, Editorial Director, McKnight’s

“For over 45 years Herb Weiss’s reporting has kept us informed about important issues touching the lives of our older population – from critical national and local policy proposals to tips for aging boldly. This collection honors his many years of journalistic excellence in reporting on aging.”
Maureen Maigret, Policy Advisor, Senior Agenda Coalition of RI

“The City of Pawtucket is proud to recognize the establishment of the Herbert P. Weiss Papers collection at RIC’s James P. Adams Library, preserving his invaluable contributions to the fields of aging, health care, and medical issues. Herb’s work has profoundly impacted our community, and this collection ensures that his legacy will continue to inform and inspire future generations.”
Mayor Donald Grebien, Mayor of Pawtucket, RI

“Herb Weiss tackles important seniors’ topics from a Rhode Island perspective, at once localizing and nationalizing them. Our organization has been happy to help share Herb’s work with a national audience over these past decades. His columns go beyond routine reporting on Social Security, Medicare, Aging, and a host of other issues we care about. Herb brings nuance, balance, and detail where it can otherwise be lacking in other media. This new collection of his works will be a valuable resource to everyone in our field.”

Max Richtman, President and CEO, National Committee to Preserve Social Security & Medicare

“Herb Weiss has been an articulate and passionate writer on so many issues related to aging and older adults in Rhode Island. His writings trace the enduring achievements and challenges of growing older, and this collection is a testament to his myriad contributions to enriching our perspectives on older adults.”

Phillip G. Clark, ScD, Professor and Director, Program in Gerontology
University of Rhode Island

From Herb Weiss: A Personal Reflection

As Weiss reflects on his decades of work, he acknowledges the unique role his writing has played in shaping public discourse on aging. Through his columns, he strives to offer practical advice and provoke action on aging issues, all while highlighting the personal and emotional aspects of growing older. His hope is that this archive will inspire and inform future generations, just as his columns have done for decades.

In conclusion, The Herbert P. Weiss Papers is a treasure trove of information that not only showcases a significant body of work in aging journalism but also offers a lasting resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of aging, caregiving, and public policy. The archive’s permanent home at RIC’s James P. Adams Library ensures that Weiss’s contributions will continue to inspire and educate students, researchers, and professionals long into the future. By preserving his comprehensive documentation of the aging landscape, RIC will allow future generations to benefit from his detailed insights and policy analysis. For anyone involved in aging-related work—whether in research, policy, or direct services—the collection will serve as a valuable touchstone for understanding the evolution of aging issues over the past four and a half decades.

This collection is an invaluable asset to the community, providing essential insights and supporting the work of those involved in aging services.

Publisher’s Note: Herb Weiss’s column on aging issues is featured every Monday in RINewsToday. We are thrilled to have Herb’s expertise with us, almost from the very beginning of our publication, 10 years ago. As we come to understand issues around aging in one of the state’s with the oldest populations, institutional history helps us know where we’ve been, what has been tried, what’s worked, what hasn’t – something all too often missing in today’s dynamic of politics and public policy.

We are grateful for Herb’s contributions to RINewsToday’s readers – and Congratulations to Herb on his collection being established at Rhode Island College! – Nancy Thomas, founder and publisher, RINewsToday.

– https://www.riamco.org/render?eadid=US-RPRC-mss-0149