BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — Dozens of AARP North Dakota volunteers gathered at the Capitol to meet with lawmakers and advocate for issues affecting residents aged 50 and older. “We’re excited on this cold and blustery day to have about 45 to 50 hardy North Dakotans here,” said Josh Askvig, State Director of AARP. “They’re sharing what’s on the minds of North Dakotans 50-plus: lowering prescription drug costs, preventing fraud and scams, ensuring opportunities to age in place, addressing housing, and lowering property taxes.” Volunteers traveled from cities across the state, including Fargo, to explain how these issues impact their lives. “Property tax issues, frauds and scams, protecting our people, and prescription prices—especially insulin—are important to me,” said AARP volunteer Deb Mathern. “Coming from a family with diabetes, I know how significant these costs can be.” The rising cost of insulin and other medications was a recurring theme. “Having to choose between paying thousands for insulin or making a house payment, buying groceries, or affording other medications is really troubling,” said Nancy Guy, Volunteer State President for AARP. “Having consumers and constituents share their stories with legislators makes a big impact,” said Askvig. “It’s valuable when lawmakers hear directly from the people in their districts about why these issues matter.” Guy agreed. “Legislators like to hear from us. Our personal stories resonate with them,” she said. Mathern added, “We care about the work they’re doing and want them to know what’s important to us.” AARP’s advocacy efforts have already yielded results in past sessions. “Two years ago, we helped pass a fraud restitution bill so the securities department could provide some relief to victims of securities fraud,” said Askvig. “We also expanded the Homestead Property Tax Credit.” AARP is currently supporting six bills in this legislative session. Askvig encouraged North Dakotans to get involved. “If you couldn’t make it today, you can still contact your legislators,” he said. “Visit aarp.org/nd or use the North Dakota Legislative website to share your voice.” Mathern echoed the call to action. “Please get involved with AARP. I’m a volunteer, and that’s what they’re all about,” she said.