Press Releases

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) today introduced the Lifespan Respite Reauthorization Act, a bipartisan bill that provides family caregivers with relief and support to help them maintain a normal life. Rep. Molinaro introduced this bill with U.S. Rep. Tony Cárdenas (D-CA-29).

An estimated 48 million Americans are caring for someone over the age of 18. According to a recent American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) survey, caregivers have reported increased stress levels and a decline in overall health.

Respite services offer families temporary care or supervision for children and adults of all ages with disabilities and chronic conditions. The Lifespan Respite Care Program, which was authorized by Congress in 2006, provides states with federal funding to offer these respite services. In New York, the New York State Caregiving and Respite Coalition receives this funding and uses it to train hundreds of volunteer respite providers. 

With the Lifespan Respite Care Program set to expire in fiscal year 2024, Rep. Molinaro’s bill reauthorizes the Lifespan Respite Care Program for 4 years.

Rep. Molinaro said, "Family caregivers are often unsung heroes. They make great personal sacrifices to care for a loved one with a disability or chronic illness. With the Lifespan Respite Reauthorization Act, we will continue providing caregivers with relief and assistance so they can lead a balanced life while tending to their loved ones.”