VAN DREW/ALBANO BILL TO INCREASE FUNDING
FOR ASSISTED LIVING CENTERS ADVANCES

(TRENTON) - The Assembly Health and Senior Services committee today released legislation Assemblymen Jeff Van Drew and Nelson Albano sponsored to provide assisted living centers with enhanced resources for providing quality care and service to their residents. VAN DREW/ALBANO BILL TO INCREASE FUNDING
FOR ASSISTED LIVING CENTERS ADVANCES

(TRENTON) - The Assembly Health and Senior Services committee today released legislation Assemblymen Jeff Van Drew and Nelson Albano sponsored to provide assisted living centers with enhanced resources for providing quality care and service to their residents.

"Too many of our seniors are prematurely forced into nursing homes which is a cruel and hurtful process for them and their families," said Van Drew (D-Cape May/Atlantic/Cumberland). "This will give them and their families piece of mind."

The Van Drew/Albano measure (A-2229) would codify a recent increase from $40 to $50 for the Medicaid daily reimbursement rate that assisted living facilities can receive for a patient. The increased per diem allows these centers to better meet the health care needs of Medicaid-eligible residents.

Assisted living centers provide residents assistance with physical activities and health-related needs. As of January 1, the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services pays centers at a daily rate of $50. Van Drew and Albano crusaded for the increased reimbursement rate and now want to protect the higher rate through a state law.

"Assisted living centers are vital to the well being of our seniors and disabled residents," said Albano (D-Cape May/Atlantic/Cumberland). "New Jersey has a responsibility to provide financial support for assisted living facilities as a strategy for controlling skyrocketing Medicaid cost and relieving the financial stress of families with aging loved ones."

The bill was released 9 to 1 with one abstention. It now heads to the Assembly Speaker, who decides if and when to post it for a floor vote.

-- 30 --

For Release:
January 18, 2007

Assemblyman Jeff Van Drew
P: (609) 465-0700

Assemblyman Nelson T. Albano
P: (609) 465-0700

John Duthie
(609) 292-7065