Us Congress House Bill HB7605

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/15/24

Caption

SENIOR Act of 2024 Safeguarding Elderly Needs through Innovation and Occupational Resources Act of 2024

Impact

The bill highlights the urgent need for reform in long-term care services as the U.S. population ages rapidly, with projections indicating that by 2034, individuals aged 65 and older will outnumber those under 18. It emphasizes the necessity for robust support systems as the demand for long-term care is expected to triple by 2050. The financial framework laid out in HB7605 aims to alleviate the burden on both seniors and the healthcare system by reducing costs associated with more expensive institutional care alternatives. Moreover, the bill addresses the growing workforce crisis in the senior care industry, which has experienced significant job losses and is projected to require millions of new workers by 2040.

Summary

House Bill 7605, known as the SENIOR Act of 2024, seeks to address the significant challenges facing the long-term care workforce and improve the affordability of long-term care services for elderly Americans. The bill aims to create a Senior Care Cost Reduction Program, which would provide financial assistance to low-income seniors for residing in assisted living facilities, a more economical alternative to nursing homes. The proposed funding structure includes state allotments that would begin with a monthly amount of $1,000 for eligible seniors, which would be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index.

Contention

There are several notable points of contention regarding HB7605. Critics may suggest that while the bill presents a robust framework for supporting seniors, concerns could arise regarding the implementation at the state level and the adequacy of funding to meet the growing needs of the elderly population. Furthermore, the bill aims to shift a larger emphasis on assisted living facilities as opposed to nursing homes, potentially leading to pushback from advocates who argue for diverse options in senior care. As discussions surrounding the bill continue, questions regarding the long-term sustainability of its funding and its impact on existing state Medicaid programs may emerge.