Seniors in Webster Parish could soon see improved services from the Webster Parish Council on Aging if a bill aimed at increasing state funding for local councils is passed by the Louisiana Legislature.
House Bill 126, introduced by Rep. Lyons on March 25, seeks to amend the state’s current funding formula for parish councils on aging. If approved, the bill would raise the minimum annual funding to $150,000 or $2.50 per resident aged 60 and older, whichever is greater. Currently, councils receive a base allocation of $100,000 per year.
Johnny Johnson, executive director of the Webster Parish Council on Aging, said the potential funding increase would go directly toward addressing local needs.
“HB 126 is intended to increase funding for every parish COA. This funding is referred to as PCOA (Parish Councils on Aging) funding. Right now, we are allocated $100,000 per year from this state grant. If the bill passes, we look to receive an extra $50,000 per year,” Johnson said. “For us, right now, the extra $50,000 would be allocated directly to meals-on-wheels, which is where we have our largest budget shortfall.”
The meals-on-wheels program provides hot meals to homebound seniors, many of whom rely on the service as their primary source of nutrition. Johnson noted that increased funding would allow the council to serve more residents.
The proposed legislation comes amid rising concerns statewide about the adequacy of support for aging populations. Louisiana’s senior citizens are expected to increase in number over the next decade, placing added demand on existing services.
Supporters of HB 126 argue that the funding boost would help parish councils like Webster’s better serve the community’s elderly residents by expanding access to services such as meals, transportation, and social activities. Opponents have raised concerns about the potential strain on the state budget.
As debate on the bill continues, local officials and senior advocates are watching closely. The outcome could directly impact the quality and availability of services for seniors across Webster Parish.
A vote on HB 126 has not yet been scheduled.