Ninety-five organizations called on Congress to support the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act, a bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, according to a statement released on Mar. 24. The legislation would allow family caregivers to use tax-free health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts to pay for medical expenses of their parents and loved ones, even if they are not classified as dependents.
The issue is significant because many Americans who care for aging relatives face high out-of-pocket costs and financial strain. Currently, caregivers can only use these accounts if their parents qualify as dependents under tax law.
Buchanan said, “Family caregivers make incredible sacrifices to support their loved ones, often while balancing jobs, raising families and managing their own financial responsibilities.” He added that with nearly 200,000 seniors in his district alone, assistance is crucial so families can provide dignified care: “My Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act provides commonsense relief by allowing caregivers to use their own health care accounts to cover a parent’s medical expenses.”
Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer, said the bipartisan bill would offer flexibility and relief: “This commonsense, bipartisan bill would give caregivers more flexibility and financial relief by allowing them to use their health care accounts to cover a parent or parent-in-law’s qualified medical expenses. We urge Congress to act swiftly…and give family caregivers the support they need.”
Organizations from across aging advocacy groups—including AARP; the Alzheimer’s Association; Alliance for Aging Research; National Council on Aging; Muscular Dystrophy Association; Parkinson’s Foundation; National Multiple Sclerosis Society; American Geriatrics Society; Caregiver Action Network; National Alliance for Caregiving—signed a letter urging lawmakers’ backing.
The letter stated: “This legislation would be an important step to help alleviate the financial challenges that millions of family caregivers experience every day…” It also highlighted that almost half of family caregivers have faced negative impacts such as debt or loss of income due to caregiving responsibilities.
Buchanan has represented Florida’s 16th congressional district since 2007 after succeeding Katherine Harris according to public records. He previously served in the Florida House of Representatives according to his official biography. Born in Detroit in 1951, Buchanan now lives in Sarasota as reported by Biographical Directory of the United States Congress. He holds degrees from Cleary University (1975) and University of Detroit Mercy (1986) according Cleary University.
Supporters say passing this legislation could help reduce economic burdens on millions caring both for children and elderly relatives—the so-called “sandwich generation.” The coalition looks forward “to working with you [Congress]” toward enacting these changes.
