The Community Choice Act of 2007
On September 25, 2007, at 10am in the Dirksen Senate Building room G-50, the Senate Finance Committee will hold a hearing to discuss the Community Choice Act of 2007, also known as S.799. This bill, introduced by Senator Thomas Harkin (IA), has 17 cosponsors and is desperately needed. The bill has also been filed in the House by Representative Danny Davis (IL-7), along with 26 cosponsors and is H.R. 1621.
Simply because a person is labeled "elderly," does not mean that he or she desires nursing home living. Many people with disabilities also prefer to live independently rather than in an institution. However, current funding for assistance to the elderly and people with disabilities is much greater for those who live in long-term care facilities than in community based housing.
The Community Choice Act would allow people eligible for Medicaid funded assisted living to choose to live at home or in non-familial residential homes with attendant services if certain criteria are met. This means that attendants would assist with the practical needs of the individual, while at the same time allowing the individual to remain more independent than if she or he were in an institutional setting. Individuals could continue to be functioning members of their communities, feel valued and important, and the community would have the benefit of their contributions.
Providing attendant services is the means to greater independence for individuals with disabilities and elderly folks who need help in daily living. Through federal matching funds provided to the states, the Community Choice Act of 2007 provides hope to millions of people, be they persons with disabilities, the elderly in need of assistance, or the family members often caring for them.
To learn more about the Community Choice Act of 2007, go to Thomas.loc.gov and type in the bill number.
This piece was written by Kirsten Lindholm, WLF Intern and Sharon Grosfeld, WLF Executive Director.
