North Carolina Coalition on Aging

2004 Legislative Priorities

In recognition of the severe budget issues faced by the Genera/Assembly at the same lime the older adult population and waiting lists for services are increasing, the Coalition submits the following recommendations: Increase state revenues to provide services for elderly and disabled. (e.g. increase laxcs on tobacco, liquor and soft drinks, close corporate lax loopholes, expand sales lax to some services)

WE ALSO URGE SUPPORT FOR THE FOLLOWING

• COMPLY WITH THE U.S. SUPREME COURT'S OLMSTEAD DECISION BY MAINTAINING FUNDING FOR THE COMMUNITY ALTERNATIVES PROGRAM (CAP/DA) AND RESTORING $1 MILLION IN FUNDS FOR THE HOME AND COMMUNITY CARE BLOCK GRANT.
• MAKE IT POSSIBLE FOR ALL LONG TERM CARE FACILITIES TO RECEIVE FEDERAL CRIMINAL RECORDS BACKGROUND CHECKS,
• MAKE TAX CREDIT FOR LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE PREMIUMS PERMANENT.
• EXPAND USE OF MED1CAID FUNDS FOR ADULT DAY SERVICES
• SUPPORT CONTINUED AVAILABILITY OF INSPECTION REPORTS AND OTHER PUBLIC RECORDS AS EVIDENCE IN LITIGATION AGAINST LONG TERM CARE FACILITIES.

As presented at AAUW NC 2004 Convention