I am writing as a member of the Local Organizing Ministry from St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Palmer and a member of Valley Interfaith Action.
I would like to commend the work of the Legislature this year in passing House Bill 96 unanimously. This bill was introduced by Rep. Zack Fields of Anchorage and cosponsored by members of the House and the Senate. HB 96 will give predictability and continuity in the raising of rates at the Veterans and Pioneer Homes in Alaska. HB 96 will give the Division of Health and Social Services direction in raising or lowering, rates based on cost of living, Medicare/Medicaid and Social Security, as well as the resident’s financial ability. HB 96 would go into effect July 1.
I would urge Gov. Mike Dunleavy to sign this bill into law as soon as possible in order for the residents of the Veterans and Pioneer Homes to find support and security in their residential homes during this time of unease and financial worry.
– Katherine Bishop
St. Michael’s Local Organizing Ministry
Palmer
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