What the ABC Act means for Filipino American family caregivers
Photo from the National Council on Aging website
The Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers (ABC) Act is set to bring much-needed relief to family caregivers by simplifying access to essential federal benefits.
With millions of caregivers – many of them Filipino Americans – struggling with complex applications, long wait times and administrative hurdles, this bipartisan bill seeks to remove unnecessary barriers so they can focus on what matters most: caring for their loved ones.
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Introduced by Senators Ed Markey (D-MA) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), along with Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL) and Seth Magaziner (D-RI), the ABC Act will streamline the process for caregivers applying for Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP and Social Security benefits.
It aims to cut redundant paperwork, improve communication between federal agencies, and provide clearer guidance on eligibility requirements.
The bill also mandates that agencies like Medicare, Medicaid,and the Social Security Administration review their procedures with direct input from caregivers, ensuring a more responsive system.
Within a year of its passage, a report to Congress will be required to track progress and evaluate its impact.
According to the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA), across the United States, more than 48 million individuals serve as family caregivers, with a significant portion coming from the Filipino American community.
Recognizing their invaluable contributions, NaFFAA has expressed firm support for the ABC Act. The organization underscores the staggering $600 billion worth of unpaid labor caregivers provide each year and stresses the importance of improving access to essential benefits and streamlining cumbersome processes.
NaFFAA leaders emphasized that caregivers dedicate immense time and effort to their loved ones, and it is only fair to remove the bureaucratic barriers that add unnecessary challenges to their responsibilities.
By supporting the ABC Act, NaFFAA continues to champion policies that uplift Filipino American family caregivers and ensure they receive the recognition and assistance they deserve.
