“America’s family caregivers work around-the-clock to provide essential care for their loved ones, and over half—56 percent—act as advocates on behalf of their family members. The last thing these caregivers need is more red tape that distracts from their support for those in their care,” said Rep. Kat Cammack. “I’m honored to introduce this bipartisan and bicameral ABC Act with my colleagues to lower the burden around the important medical decisions caregivers must make every day. Together we can support the 48 million caregivers that make up a critical part of our health care landscape in the U.S.”
“Family caregivers work around the clock to support their loved ones—often balancing their jobs and family responsibilities at the same time—and Congress must do our part to make their lives easier,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner. “That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the ABC Act, a bicameral, bipartisan bill that will cut through bureaucratic red tape to provide caregivers with the support they deserve.”
“There are over 48 million family caregivers in the United States who provide essential services so their loved ones can continue to lead an independent lifestyle,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. “I’m proud to join a bipartisan and bicameral group in introducing the ABC Act to streamline policies and alleviate administrative barriers so our caregivers can spend less time on stressful paperwork, and more time caring for patients in need.”
“Family caregivers face daily and numerous challenges when it comes to their many important responsibilities to help provide for the health and wellbeing of care recipients,” said Rep. Jimmy Panetta. “By streamlining the overly burdensome and bureaucratic process, the bipartisan bicameral Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act would allow family caregivers to focus more on people rather than paperwork. This legislation would help ensure that the federal government is a partner, not an obstacle, for the over 48 million family caregivers around the country.”
“Family caregivers are the backbone of our nation’s long-term care system, and they are overwhelmed managing their loved one’s care,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond. “The Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act could help reduce the stress family caregivers experience by making it easier to navigate resources, eligibility, benefits, and health systems when providing care. AARP thanks Representatives Cammack, Magaziner, Malliotakis, and Panetta for their dedication to family caregivers and urges Congress to swiftly pass this important bipartisan, bicameral legislation.”
The bill’s Senate companion, S. 3109, was introduced by Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Ed Markey (D-MA).
The bill has been endorsed by dozens of organizations, including AARP, the ALS Association, the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Heart Association, Autism Speaks, the Family Caregiver Alliance, the Home Care Association of America, the National Alliance for Caregiving, and many more.
