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House Votes on Lifespan Respite Care Bill Tomorrow


We are pleased to let you know that the United States House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on the Lifespan Respite Care Act (HR 3248) tomorrow, Wednesday, December 6. This important legislation, a priority for The ALS Association, would authorize competitive grants to states to make quality respite care available and accessible to family caregivers regardless of age, disability, or family situation. This includes caregivers for people with ALS.

The ALS Association has supported the Lifespan Respite Care Act since it was introduced in Congress and has worked closely with the National Respite Coalition to advance this important legislation. In fact, the bill was the focus of one of our breakout sessions during the 2005 Advocacy Day and Public Policy Conference. The bill has also been part of our I Took the Extra Step Campaign program at our Walks. The legislation is based on model Lifespan Respite Systems in Oregon, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Oklahoma. These systems provide easy access to an array of affordable, quality respite services; ensure flexibility to meet diverse needs; and assist with locating, training, and paying respite providers.

Thank you for all of your hard work and support of this legislation over the past several years. Following the House vote tomorrow, the Senate is expected to vote on the bill Thursday. We will keep you updated as the bill advances through the legislative process. If you have any questions please contact the Advocacy Department via email at advocacy@alsa-national.org.