​Framework Announced for Compromise Build Back Better Plan

​Last week, President Biden announced that a compromise was reached for the framework for his “Build Back Better Plan.”

​Sadly, the Credit for Caring Act, which would have provided a tax credit to families caring for loved ones at home, was not included as the White House and Democratic Leadership were forced to trim more than $1.5 billion from the plan. The provision was included in the House Ways & Means Committee plan passed by the Committee in early September. 

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This was something that HCAOA supported, along with AARP and hundreds of other senior advocacy groups. But with a price tag of $30 billion, lawmakers chose to remove it from the package.
  
HCAOA is in contact with White House staff and the office of Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-CA), sponsor of the Credit for Caring provision, to discuss the potential of working something out prior to House passage, but prospects are not strong at this point due to the cost.
 
Other programs not included were lowering pharmaceutical costs and universal paid family leave. 
 
There was $150 billion included for home care under state Medicaid programs to address the existing Home and Community-Based Services wait lists of 800,000, expand eligibility, and hopefully increase reimbursement for home care services. Workforce development is earmarked for $40 billion for training that could possibly include home care workers, and universal Pre-K and childcare tax credits for $400 billion, which has been identified as a significant challenge for home care workers. 
 
Another positive news is the inclusion of PDN services under Medicaid HCBS, which was something many HCAOA members who provide PDN services were hoping to have included.

​Leaders say they hope for a vote this week.