Senators Collins, Markey Lead Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing November as National Family Caregivers Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Edward Markey (D-MA) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing November as "National Family Caregivers Month." The resolution honors the 63 million Americans who provide a combined $600 billion in unpaid care to family members or loved ones facing illness, disability, or the natural progression of aging.

"Family caregivers show extraordinary compassion and devotion to their loved ones every day of the year, which is why it is important that we set aside this month to honor their admirable work," said Senator Collins. "Far too many of us know the pressures that come with caregiving. My own family has experienced the challenges of caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's, and I have seen firsthand the strength and endurance that define so many of our nation's caregivers."

"Family caregivers are the unsung heroes of our health care system. Family caregivers, like my father was for my mother, work around the clock doing the physical, emotional, medical, and financial work to support their loved one's ability to remain in their homes and in their communities," said Senator Markey. "I am proud to lead the National Family Caregivers Month resolution alongside Senator Collins to recognize the contributions of family caregivers and acknowledge the work we have yet to accomplish for caregivers and their loved ones."

Senator Collins has long championed policies to support family caregivers. Earlier this year, Senator Collins introduced the bipartisan Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act with Senator Tammy Baldwin. The bill reauthorizes the Lifespan Respite Care Program for five years at $10 million annually through Fiscal Year 2030. It would also modernize the definition of "family caregiver" to include individuals under age 18. Senators Collins and Baldwin previously coauthored the RAISE Family Caregivers Act, which was signed into law in 2018 and called for the development of a coordinated strategic plan to leverage our resources, promote best practices, and expand services and training available to caregivers.

Joining Senators Collins and Markey as cosponsors of this resolution are Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Andy Kim (D-NJ).

The complete text of the resolution can be read here.

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