OLYMPIA – Rep. Dave Paul, D-Oak Harbor, introduced legislation on Monday that allows certain people to exempt themselves from long-term care trust premiums.
“Our military families deserve our best. Active-duty service members were never subject to WA Cares premiums,” said Paul. “However, it’s important to recognize that their spouses move with them and may not live in Washington long enough realize the benefit of the program. Those who plan on staying in Washington state can still participate in this important program.”
House Bill 1733 also allows military spouses, disabled veterans, border state residents, and non-immigrant visa holders to voluntarily exempt themselves from the WA Cares premium.
“Having an attainable financial plan to age at home is very important to the well-being of Washingtonians,” continued Paul. “However, many people in our community need us to make some common-sense adjustments to the program. That is why I am proud to sponsor this legislation, and I why I am also supporting House Bill 1732.”
House Bill 1732 extends the rollout of the Long-Term Care Trust program by 18 months. During this extension, businesses will not have to collect premiums and will allow lawmakers to expand the program so people closer to retirement can collect the benefits. It also allows for prematurely collected premiums to be refunded.
“We are making adjustments to strengthen the program,” Paul said, “yet it is important that we remember why WA Cares is needed. Seniors, the disabled, and their families should not be forced to spend down their savings, go bankrupt, or sell their homes to pay for long-term care. WA Cares will allow more Washingtonians to get the care they need to stay in their homes longer—which is better for everyone.”