New York State's 50plus Population Living in State of Economic Unrest, AARP Finds

NEW YORK, June 7, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The most powerful voting demographic in New York State is uneasy, living in a state of economic unrest – according to a new statewide survey out today from AARP. The State's 50+ are reporting they are worried about paying their mortgages, rents, property taxes and even utility bills.

The survey of 50+ voters across the state looked at some key, kitchen table economic issues through a statewide lens, with a deeper dive in several areas across New York: the Capital Region, Buffalo, Rochester, Dutchess County, Syracuse, Long Island and NYC. 

"This is not just an issue of older New Yorkers being concerned about their economic well-being; New Yorkers in their 50s are painting a clear picture of some of their immediate home budget pain points," said Beth Finkel, State Director for AARP in New York State.

The statewide survey finds:

• 35% are worried about being able to pay their mortgage or rent
• 52% say they are concerned about being able to pay their property taxes
• Nearly 50% say they are concerned about being able to pay their utility bills
• 74% said the cost of heating their homes this past winter strained their kitchen table economies (38% said major strain, 36% said minor strain)

"Worrying about being able to afford the basic necessity of utility bills really highlights the greater kitchen-table economic stresses of New York's 50+ population," added Finkel.

And, they want their lawmakers to do something about it.  When it comes to utility bills, 70% of the state's 50+ say their elected officials aren't doing enough to combat soaring home energy costs, 80% say they want to see action on the issue in the form of a utility watchdog passed by the legislature and signed into law this year.  

The issue is a top priority for AARP in New York State and an Association-backed bill creating a utility watchdog and giving consumers a fighting chance when utility companies press for rate hikes before the Public Service Commission has passed the Assembly (A.6239B sponsored by Assemblyman Jeffery Dinowitz). Now, AARP is turning its attention to the Senate and Governor to take similar action.  The eyes of the 50+ voters are on their state senators and Governor Andrew Cuomo to help bring some relief to suffering kitchen table economies.  

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AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services.  A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity of AARP that is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50+ by being a force for change on the most serious issues they face today: housing, hunger, income and isolation. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org.

SOURCE AARP New York State