CA SB1249

Updates the Mello-Granlund Older Californians Act to reflect demographic shifts toward an older, more diverse California population and establish intent to reform area agencies on aging related to geography, governance, programs, performance measures, funding, and public awareness.

Requires the California Department of Aging to complete by September 30, 2026: identify core programs and services for older adults and family caregivers, develop regulations for area agency designations, create performance measurement methodology, and develop a statewide consumer engagement plan targeting underrepresented communities.

Directs the Department of Aging to inform all deliverables with data from validated sources including the U.S. Census, Department of Finance, Master Plan for Aging Data Dashboard, Elder Index, and Healthy Places Index.

Replaces terminology of "senior" with "older adult" throughout the code and repeals obsolete provisions including the Senior Center Bond Act of 1984 and the Senior Housing Information and Support Center.

Establishes new legislative findings recognizing ageism, housing insecurity, and economic challenges facing older adults, and affirms the importance of volunteer opportunities and civic engagement for California's older population.