Today, Independent Women, a national organization focused on advancing policies for opportunity and well-being, expressed approval of the Department of Labor’s proposal to reverse home care rules implemented during the Obama administration. These rules affected compensation for home care workers and imposed cost burdens on caregivers, seniors, and their families.
Heather Madden, policy staff director at Independent Women, stated: “We applaud the Department of Labor’s move to rescind misguided regulations that have long stood in the way of a functional, affordable in-home care market for seniors and other vulnerable Americans.”
The 2013 Home Care Rule has been criticized for restricting access to in-home care by increasing costs and reducing flexibility. The rule limits essential care services to 20% of a caregiver’s weekly hours. If exceeded, families could lose exemptions from overtime pay requirements. Madden emphasized that these barriers forced families into difficult choices regarding care options.
Madden added: “It’s long past time we support families and empower seniors to age in place. This action is a critical step toward restoring choice, flexibility, and common sense to the home care system.”
Independent Women continues its advocacy through various initiatives supporting affordable home care options. This includes issuing letters in support of related legislation and releasing policy focuses aimed at repealing restrictive rules.
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