Harkin Introduces Bill to Support Community-Based Services

Legislation Would Increase Access for People with Disabilities and Older Americans

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 7, 2007

Contact: Maureen Knightly / Tom Reynolds 202-224-3254

Washington, D.C. - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today introduced the Community Choice Act of 2007, bill number S.799. The legislation, co sponsored by Senator Arlen Specter (R-PA), would increase access to community-based services and other supports for Americans with disabilities and older Americans.

"I strongly believe that it is important to level the playing field and give eligible individuals equal access to community-based services and supports," Harkin said. "This legislation is needed to truly bring people with disabilities into the mainstream of society and provide equal opportunity or employment and community activities."

Specifically, the Community Choice Act of 2007 gives individuals who are eligible for nursing home services or other institutional care equal access to community-based services and supports. The legislation also provides enhanced federal matching funds to help states develop their long-term care infrastructure and grant funds to help states increase their ability to provide home and community-based services. Finally, this bill creates a demonstration project to evaluate service coordination and cost sharing approaches for those eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare services.

"This vital legislation will open the door to full participation by people with disabilities in our neighborhoods, workplaces, economy, and our American Dream," Harkin said.

The following Senators co-sponsored the Harkin-Specter legislation: Edward Kennedy (D-MA), Daniel Inouye (D-HI), Ken Salazar (D-CO), Joseph Biden (D-DE), Joseph Lieberman (ID-CT), Hillary Clinton (D-NY), Charles Schumer (D-NY), and Christopher Dodd (D-CT).

Source: Senator Tom Harkin - Iowa