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AUGUSTA — AARP Maine recently testified before the Legislature’s Committee on Taxation in support of legislation that would provide some financial relief to family caregivers in the state.
The bill L.D. 442, is sponsored by Senator Paul Davis, R-Sangerville, and would provide a tax credit of up to $2,500 for family caregivers with an income of less than $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for couples.
“My goal with this bill is to recognize the importance of family caregivers and to help reduce some of the financial stress associated with care,” Davis said at the hearing.
AARP estimates that each year 178,000 Mainers care for older parents, spouses or other loved ones, helping them live independently at home and in their communities, according to a news release from the organization. The unpaid care provided by these caregivers is valued at $2.2 billion annually.
“Family caregivers take on huge responsibilities that can be overwhelming, stressful and emotionally and physically exhausting, not to mention financially challenging,” said Rich Livingston, AARP Maine volunteer state president, to the committee. “We can take this important policy step to help make their lives a little bit easier.”
In addition to those who testified in person, several caregivers, unable to attend the hearing because of their in-home caregiving responsibilities, submitted testimony which was read to the committee.
Family caregivers, on average, contribute $6,954 to their loved one’s care each year, according to AARP. Family caregivers caring for loved ones with dementia contribute $10,697 to their loved ones care each year and long-distance family caregivers contribute $11,923 to their loved ones care each year.
Eligible costs would include out-of-pocket costs for services and supports such as transportation, home modifications, assistive technology, and other necessities. The tax credit would also help family caregivers pay for respite care, adult day care and in-home health care so they could take a break from caregiving responsibilities to refresh, recharge and manage other personal and professional responsibilities.
“Maine ranks lower than most states in terms of caregivers feeling supported,” Livingston told the committee. “Two in five family caregivers experience moderate to high stress due to the financial burden of caregiving. On behalf of our 230,000 members in the state, AARP Maine urges the Committee to recognize the needs of family caregivers through their support of this important legislation.”
