TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Donald Norcross and Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg to provide financial assistance to state residents who provide informal, uncompensated care and support to elderly relatives was approved today by the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.
“Family caregivers are so important to the health and wellbeing of our aging residents, as they provide emotional, financial and in some cases medical support to those in their care. But they are also vital to the strength of the state’s health care and long-term care systems, helping to reduce the financial burden on these critical networks,” said Senator Norcross, D-Camden and Gloucester. “Providing tax relief to those who have taken on this incredible responsibility is a way to recognize the contribution they make to the state and to relieve some of the cost they bear in providing in-home care.”
“While many people prefer to care for a loved one who is aging at home, and do so willingly, there is undoubtedly an emotional and financial toll on the caregiver that often goes unnoticed,” said Senator Weinberg, D-Bergen. “Providing a small measure of relief to those who sacrifice so much to take care of an aging family member is the right thing to do. Moreover, it will help caregivers with the cost of medication, health equipment or supplies that are necessary to keep their loved one healthy and comfortable, and in the community longer.”