Author: Leona E. Filis

The RAISE ACT was introduced by U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) earlier this year. Now the legislation is on its way to the House.

“I applaud the Senate’s move to advance the bipartisan RAISE Family Caregivers Act forward, and I’m proud of the widespread support, nationally and in Wisconsin, that this critical, bipartisan bill has received,” said Senator Baldwin. “In so many instances, family caregivers put their own health, livelihoods and financial security at risk to tend to the needs of their loved ones, many of whom require full-time assistance and care. If we are serious about ensuring that our older adults and loved ones with disabilities receive the highest quality care in their own homes, we must formally recognize and support family caregivers. The bipartisan RAISE Family Caregivers Act creates a national strategy and plan to assist family caregivers. This effort is especially personal to me as I was raised by my maternal grandparents and later served as my grandmother’s primary caretaker as she grew older, and I will continue to work to ensure that everyone has access to the care and assistance they need and deserve.”

“Our family caregivers are an invaluable resource to our aging society,” said Senator Collins. “As our aging population continues to grow and the need for round-the-clock care for our seniors increases, uncompensated family caregivers will continue to be the most important source of support for people who need long-term care. At some point most of us will likely either be family caregivers or someone who needs one. The RAISE Family Caregivers Act will launch a coordinated, national strategic plan that will help us to leverage our resources, promote innovation and promising practices, and provide our nation’s family caregivers with much-needed recognition and support.”