AARP recently named state District 44 Sen. Eric Koch, R-Bedford, as a member of its 2019 class of Capitol Caregivers.

The award recognizes 70 state legislators and three governors from nearly 30 states. This award honors lawmakers for their work on championing legislation that reflects AARP’s mission to protect vulnerable adults and support family caregivers and nurse practitioners, according to a news release from Koch’s office.

Koch received the award for his work on Senate Enrolled Act 380, which he authored during the 2019 legislative session. The legislation created the option of using supported decision-making agreements instead of guardianships for adults who need support and accommodations in making, communicating and effectuating decisions.

District 44 includes all or parts of Bartholomew, Brown, Jackson, Lawrence and Monroe counties.