President Biden introduced his $2 trillion infrastructure plan, the American Jobs Plan, today in Pittsburgh.  The historic inclusion of $400 billion to expand access to home and community-based services speaks to the value of LeadingAge advocacy – making this a great country to grow old in is critical and essential and aging services must be included in any plan to build/rebuild the nation’s infrastructure.  The proposal includes:

• HCBS
  • The proposal calls for $400 billion over the next decade for HCBS, which includes funding for states to expand services to people on waiting lists and beyond, better wages for workers, and more.
• Housing
  • Calls for $213 billion in affordable housing infrastructure investmentto build, preserve, or produce 2 million homes
  • Aims to improve broadband access across the country; remove 100% of lead pipes and service lines to ensure cleaner drinking water; and invest in FEMA and HUD programs to build disaster-resilient communities

Of course, the details will emerge as discussions continue.  The discussions between the House, Senate, and Administration – as well as governors and the public – are only beginning now.  One key question is whether this legislation can be done through budget reconciliation, as was accomplished with the American Relief Plan.  LeadingAge will continue to advocate on behalf of members across the continuum as we participate in the ongoing infrastructure conversation.

Questions?

Contact:

Alyssa Odegaard- Vice President, Public Policy 

c: 206.948.2279