Press Releases

Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA) and Marie Newman (D-IL), today introduced the Older Workers Bureau Act, which would establish an Older Workers’ Bureau under the Department of Labor. The bureau would be tasked with identifying challenges facing workers aged 55 and up, and guiding future policy to support the welfare of older workers.

“As more Americans work into their later years and workplace conditions evolve, older workers face unique challenges such as age discrimination, work-limiting health conditions, and financially preparing for retirement,” said Rep. Beyer. “These workers need and deserve a unified source of information and support, which at present does not exist. The establishment of an Older Workers’ Bureau would provide a new, central office dedicated to supporting our older workers and ensuring they have the resources they need to be successful.”

“Every American deserves to live with the dignity that comes with an honest day’s work. Yet, older Americans face enormous barriers and outright discrimination as they seek employment in an ever-changing economy,” said Congresswoman Marie Newman. “Now more than ever, as older Americans contemplate returning to a post-Covid workplace, we must equip them with the tools and resources to be successful. Their rich experiences, knowledge, and skillsets are an asset to any company or industry. An Older Workers’ Bureau will help us get these job seekers back to work.”

Specifically, the Older Workers’ Bureau Act would authorize $7M per year for the new Bureau to support older workers by promoting their welfare, improving working conditions, increasing efficiency, and advancing the employment opportunities. Specifically, the bill would:

• Provide research and coordination relating to issues facing older workers;
• Develop potential policy solutions;
• Provide outreach and education to institutions; and
• Administer grant programs to expand research into older workers and to combat structural ageism in the workplace.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics has found that between 1995 and 2020, the share of older workers more than doubled to nearly 25% from 12%. It also found that of the 9 million jobs expected to be added to the economy by 2030, more than half, 4.7 million, will be filled by workers over the age of 55.

Text of the Older Worker’s Bureau Act is available here.