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September 20, 2000
Re: S. 1536
Dear Senator:
The National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) encourages you to reauthorize the Older Americans Act before the end of the 106th Congress. The Senate version of the bill, S. 1536, which has passed the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, is a bipartisan effort of critical importance in strengthening and modernizing programs and services to millions of older Americans.
Of particular importance in the bill is the Family Caregiver Support Program. This program will provide much needed assistance for those who care for older individuals in their homes. Supportive services that enable older individuals and people with disabilities to stay in their own homes help avoid costly placements in institutions. In addition, NCSL supports increased efforts to reach low-income, minority and rural elderly households and inform them about the services offered under the Older Americans Act.
NCSL believes that S. 1536 represents a workable compromise that the Senate should pass. NCSL hopes that you will seize the opportunity to reauthorize this important program, and that this bill will not be lost in these last hectic days before adjournment.
We are ready to work with you to support this bill. Please do not hesitate to call Sheri Steisel of NCSL's Washington staff at (202) 624-5400 if we can be of assistance or provide further information.
Sincerely,
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Delegate John Hurson
Majority Leader, Maryland House of Delegates
Chair, Assembly on Federal Issues |
Representative Ken Svedjan
North Dakota
Vice Chair, Assembly on Federal Issues |
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