Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Create National Long Term Care Insurance Program

On Wednesday, March 25, Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA) and Congressmen Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and John Dingell (D-MI) introduced the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS) Act of 2009 that would create a voluntary insurance program for adults who become functionally disabled. The bill provides a cash benefit for long term care services and supports and helps beneficiaries continue to live and participate in their communities.

The national insurance program would be financed by voluntary payroll deductions. To qualify for benefits, individuals must be 18 years old and have contributed to the program at least 5 years. All working adults would be automatically enrolled in the program, unless they choose not to be.