The Legislative Update for January 17, 2013 This E-Mail Is Provided As A

Welcome to the Legislative Update for January 17, 2013

This e-mail is provided as a courtesy of the Governor's Advisory Council on Aging. The purpose of this service is to keep Arizona's seniors and advocates for aging services informed about bills and actions taking place at the Arizona State Legislature and to highlight Congressional bills or happenings affecting older Americans. The information is intended to help you shape your own opinion about an issue and to give you the necessary resources and contacts so that you can ensure your perspective and voice are heard. The Legislative Update is non-partisan in nature. Thank you for your interest!

The 51st Arizona State Legislature opened on Monday, January 14, 2013.

The list of Representatives and Senators, Standing Committees and their members can be found on the Arizona State Legislature website at the following links.

Members of the House

Members of the Senate

Standing Committees page

(Be sure to click on the committees to view the members as well as any posted meeting agendas for that committee.)

All committee agendas (House, Senate, Joint Legislative Budget Committee or JLBC) are posted at this link.

If you are new to the Arizona State Legislature’s website, be sure to see the Frequently Asked Questions or FAQs page.

State of the State Remarks

On Monday, the Governor gave her State of the State speech. A copy is provided here.

Budget information related to her decision to expand Medicaid is linked here and background information regarding the decision is provided here. The Director of the Governor's Office of Strategic Planning and Budgeting is scheduled for a budget briefing with the media on Friday. Check the website (http://www.azgovernor.gov/) for more information as it is posted.

Legislative Deadlines

Arizona State Senate Session Timelines is posted at this link.

Today, 1/17, the House seven bill introduction limit began at 5:00 pm. 1/21 is the last day for Senate members to submit bill requests to the Legislative Council; 1/28 is the last day for House members to submit bill requests to the Legislative Council. Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Tuesday, January 22, 2013, 1:30 p.m.

Summary of actions

Since the opening of the legislative session, 147 floor actions have been filed. At the end of day four (4), at least 584 bills posted and 22 memorials or resolutions posted. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and will be tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report page. Please be advised that the presence of a bill on the Council's tracking list does not represent support or opposition by the Council to that bill. It does mean that the bill topic is something that is likely to be of interest to or have an impact on older Arizonans so the Council is tracking the bill’s progress.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

Note: The FULL LIST web report above provides you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about the bills being tracked by the Council and is available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited and/or expanded as we have an opportunity to get through all of the bills. We will continue to edit the list until bills are no longer posted. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times.

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Fiscal News

From the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC)

The JLBC Budget Update and Orientation report for new legislators and the JLBC Monthly Fiscal Highlights December 2012 are posted on the Arizona State Legislature's website.

According to the December 2012 Monthly Fiscal Highlights, "Year-to-date, revenues are 4.0% higher than last year and are $19.8 million above the budget forecast."

(It is interesting to note that the January 14, 2010 issue of the Legislative Update quoted the JLBC Monthly Fiscal Highlights December 2009 as saying “Year-to-date, revenues are (17.6)% below the prior year, and $(459.5) million below the budget forecast.”)

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Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the: · Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· Or contacting your legislator from your area…locate your legislator by going to the Arizona State Legislature website and looking for: How do I find My Legislators or by following the instructions provided at both the Senate and House Member links at the website.

· District maps can be found here.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 included the establishment of the Commission on Long-Term Care. A Fact Sheet outlining tax changes, health provisions and program extensions can be found on the National Association of States United for Aging & Disabilities – NASUAD.

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H.R.38

Seniors' Tax Simplification Act of 2013

Introduced on 1/3/2013 by Representative John Fleming (LA-4)

H.R.38 directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make available a new federal income tax Form 1040SR (similar to Form 1040EZ) to individuals who have turned 65 as of the close of the taxable year. Allows the form to be used even if income includes

1. Social security benefits,

2. Distribution from qualified retirement plans, annuities or other such deferred payment arrangements,

3. Interest and dividends, or

4. Capital gains and losses.

On 1/3/2013, the bill was referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means

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H.R.247

Ensuring the Full Faith and Credit of the United States and Protecting America's Soldiers and Seniors Act Introduced on 1/14/2013 by Representative David Schweikert (AZ-6)

Intent of the bill is to require that the United States Government prioritize all obligations on the debt held by the public, Social Security benefits and military pay in the event that the debt limit is reached, and for other purposes.

On 1/14/2013, H.R.247 was referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website http://thomas.loc.gov/ and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

Share your opinions with your Congressional Members!

If you are interested in sharing your thoughts or concerns, find out how to contact your congressional representatives by visiting: http://www.house.gov/ for the House or http://www.senate.gov/ for the Senate.

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

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You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

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OTHER NEWS

National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information can be found here.

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From Kaiser Health News

‘The Matrix' Meets Medicine; Surveillance Swoops Into Health Care

*********************************************** From the Congressional Budget Office

How Will Older People's Participation in the Labor Force Be Affected by the Coming Increase in the Full Retirement Age for Social Security

A link to this blog is provided here.

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From the National Center on Senior Transportation - NCST January 2013 eNews

Senior Transportation Exchange for professionals with experience/interest in mobility and transportation

Program Success Story

Volunteer Driver Program – Keoweecares

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From Sloan Center on Aging & Work at Boston College

7 January 2013 Fact of the Week: Less Than Half of 65-Year-Olds Are Retired

A link is provided here.

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From http://www.flu.gov/#

Flu Season is Here -- Take Action Now webpage of resources

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From National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities NASUAD:

2012 State of Aging and Disabilities Survey is linked here.

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From the U.S. Social Security Administration http://www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount/

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES: From the Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Health Systems Development

Sliding Fee Schedule Clinic Locations interactive map

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WHAT: 29th Annual Senior Olympic Festival with 30 venues throughout the City of Tucson, Arizona

WHEN: January 18-27, 2013

For more information, go to: www.TucsonSeniorGames.org

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WHAT: Second Annual Arizona Grandparent Ambassadors Community Outreach & Advocacy Summit

WHEN: Saturday, January 26, 2013, 9 am to 3 pm, Holiday Inn, 777 North Pinal Avenue, Casa Grande, AZ

Online registration by January 22nd at this link.

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WHAT: 2nd Annual African-American Conference on Disabilities

WHEN: March 1, 2013, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm, Coast Phoenix Sky Harbor Hotel, 4300 E. Washington, Phoenix, AZ 85034

For more information, go to this link.

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WHAT: 25th Annual Arizona Indian Council on Aging Conference Celebrating 25 Years of the Arizona Indian Council on Aging

WHEN: April 15-18, 2013, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85256

More information is provided here.

Note: Call for Workshop Presentations Deadline: January 25, 2013

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The Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council has a new website. See the latest information at this link.

*********************************************** Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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If you would like to submit an educational or public service event for consideration, be sure to send an email with the description to: [email protected]. Please note: we try to include events of interest to older Arizonans and aging service advocates.

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Thank you!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for January 25, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Monday, January 28th marks the last day for House members to submit bill requests to the Legislative Council. Monday, February 4th marks the Senate bill introduction deadline. A link to the Senate 2013 Session Timeline is posted here.

Since last Friday, 431 floor actions have been filed; 26 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. (See FULL LIST link)

All committee agendas (House, Senate, Joint Legislative Budget Committee or JLBC) are posted at this link.

If you are new to the Arizona State Legislature's website, be sure to see the Frequently Asked Questions or FAQs page.

Summary of actions

At the end of day 12, 711 bills posted and 32 memorials or resolutions posted. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and will be tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report page.

Please be advised that the presence of a bill on the Council’s tracking list does not represent support or opposition by the Council to that bill. It does mean that the bill is likely to be of interest to or have an impact on older Arizonans so the Council is tracking the bill's progress.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

Note: The FULL LIST web report above provides you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about the bills being tracked by the Council and is available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited and/or expanded as we have an opportunity to get through all of the bills posted. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times.

We will highlight some of the tracked legislation in the next issue of the Legislative Update. Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, January 28, 2013, 1:30 p.m.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, information posted on the Arizona State Legislature website can be found here and here.

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Fiscal News

From the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC)

FY 2014 JLBC Baseline Summary http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/14baseline/fy14summary.pdf

FY 2014 JLBC Baseline With Executive Budget Comparison: http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/14baseline-approps-exec comparison012213.pdf

The JCLB - Monthly Fiscal Highlights January 2013 is linked here.

According to that report, "Year-to-date, revenues are 3.6% higher than last year and are $32.3 million above the budget forecast."

Tracking Arizona's Recovery January 2013 is provided here.

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Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· Or by contacting your legislator from your area; locate your legislator by going to the Arizona State Legislature website and looking for: How do I find My Legislators or by following the instructions provided at both the Senate and House Member links at the website.

· District maps can be found here.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

H.R.25

Fair Tax Act of 2013 Introduced on 1/3/2013 by Representative Rob Woodall (GA-7)

Fair Tax Act of 2013 repeals the income tax, employment tax, and estate and gift tax. Redesignates the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as the Internal Revenue code of 2013.

Imposes a national sales tax on the use or consumption in the United States of taxable property or services. Sets the sales tax rate at 23% in 2015, with adjustments to the rate in subsequent years. Allows exemptions from the tax for property or services purchased for business, export, or investment purposes, and for state government functions.

Sets forth rules relating to:

(1) the collection and remittance of the sales tax, and

(2) credits and refunds.

Allows a monthly sales tax rebate for families meeting certain size and income requirements.

Grants states the primary authority for the collection of sales tax revenues and the remittance of such revenues to the Treasury. Sets forth administrative provisions relating to:

(1) the filing of monthly reports and payments of tax; (2) accounting methods; (3) registration of sellers of goods and services responsible for reporting sales; (4) penalties for noncompliance; and (5) collections, appeals, and taxpayer rights.

Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to allocate sales tax revenues among:

(1) the general revenue, (2) the old-age and survivors insurance trust fund, (3) the disability insurance trust fund, (4) the hospital insurance trust fund, and (5) the federal supplementary medical insurance trust fund.

On January 3, 2013, referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.149

Prioritize Spending Act of 2013 Introduced on 1/3/2013 by Representative Daniel Webster (FL-10)

Prioritize Spending Act of 2013 Requires amounts necessary for incurred federal obligations, in the event that the public debt reaches the statutory limit, to be made available to certain obligations, in prioritized order, before all other obligations. Prioritizes such obligations in the following descending order:

(1) amounts necessary to carry out the authority of the Department of the Treasury to pay with legal tender the principal and interest on public debt; (2) amounts determined by the Secretary of Defense (DOD) (and the Secretary of Homeland Security [DHS] in the case of the Coast Guard) to be necessary to continue to provide pay and allowances (without interruption) to members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, including their reserve components, who perform active service; (3) amounts certified to Congress by the President as necessary to carry out vital national security priorities; (4) amounts necessary to carry out the authority of the Commissioner of Social Security to pay monthly old-age, survivors', and disability insurance benefits under title II of the Social Security Act (SSA); and (5) amounts necessary to make payments under the Medicare program under SSA title XVIII.

On 1/3/2013, referred to House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.155 Notch Fairness Act of 2013 Introduced on 1/4/2013 by Rep Mike McIntyre (NC-7)

Notch Fairness Act of 2013

Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to revise the formula for the computation of minimum Old Age Insurance benefits for individuals who reached age 65 in or after 1979, and to whom applies the 15-year transition period for the changes in benefit computation rules enacted in the Social Security Amendments of 1977.

("Notch" refers to birth in the United States between 1917 and 1921, as a result of which a retiree born between those years received lower cost-of-living increases in Social Security than others after Congress readjusted Social Security benefits in 1977.)

Sets forth a schedule of additional benefit increases for such beneficiaries (and related beneficiaries), with percentages declining from 55% to 5% and keyed to the year an individual became eligible for such benefits between 1979 and 1988.

Allows such beneficiaries, in the alternative, to receive lump sum payments over four years totaling $5,000.

On 1/4/2013, referred to House Committee on Ways and Means. *********************************************** S.140 A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the work opportunity credit to certain recently discharged veterans, to improve the coordination of veteran job training services between the Department of Labor, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Defense, to require transparency for Executive departments in meeting the Government-wide goals for contracting with small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Introduced on 1/24/2013 by Senator Max Baucus (MT)

On 1/24/2013, referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. ***********************************************

NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website http://thomas.loc.gov/ and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

Share your opinions with your Congressional Members!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

**********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

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OTHER NEWS

Taken from the Administration for Community Living

Tuesday, January 22, 2013 ACL News & Info issue "NIH-Supported Alzheimer's Studies to Focus on Innovative Treatments

Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study Group will undertake four clinical trials over five years

With new research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the nation’s premier Alzheimer's disease study network will undertake four major studies aimed at finding new treatments for the disease. The award supports the latest projects of the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study (ADCS), a national consortium of academic medical centers and clinics set up by NIH in 1991 to collaborate on the development of Alzheimer's treatments and diagnostic tools.

In this round of studies, the ADCS will test drug and exercise interventions in people in the early stages of the disease, examine a medication to reduce agitation in people with Alzheimer's dementia, and test a cutting-edge approach to speed testing of drugs in clinical trials.

Click here for more information and to read about the four studies made possible under the new award."

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease The latest information can be found here.

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From Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured Medicaid's Role in Meeting the Long-Term Care Needs of America's Seniors Link: http://www.kff.org/medicaid/upload/8403.pdf

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From the National Council on Aging NCOA Use Your Home to Stay at Home the official reverse mortgage consumer booklet approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is provided here.

********************************************** From the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services healthfinder.gov offers resources and information on an array of topics for all ages.

Safety Tips for older adults can be found here and information on Doctor Visits is linked here.

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

WHAT: Region IV Conference on Aging WHEN: January 31, 2013, 7:30 am to 4:45 pm, Pivot Point Conference Center, 200 N. Madison Avenue, Yuma, AZ 85364

More information is provided at this link.

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WHAT: Alzheimer's Association Green Valley Education Conference WHEN: February 14, 2013, 8:30 am to 11:30 am, West Social Center, 1111 Via Arco Iris, Green Valley

More information is provided at this link.

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WHAT: 2nd Annual African-American Conference on Disabilities WHEN: March 1, 2013, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm, Coast Phoenix Sky Harbor Hotel, 4300 E. Washington, Phoenix, AZ 85034

For more information, go to this link.

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WHAT: 19th Mayor's Alzheimer's Education Conference WHEN: Wednesday, March 13, 2013, Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 East River Road, Tucson, AZ 85718

More information is provided here.

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WHAT: 25th Annual Arizona Indian Council on Aging Conference Celebrating 25 Years of the Arizona Indian Council on Aging WHEN: April 15-18, 2013, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85256

More information is provided here.

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UA College of Medicine Phoenix events are posted here.

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Just in case you're interested Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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Enjoy your weekend! ~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging Welcome to the Legislative Update for February 1, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

On Thursday, the Governor signed into law the first bill of the 2013 legislative session, HB2502: supplemental appropriation; CPS funding. The House summary is provided here. The press release regarding the signing is linked here.

Since last Friday, 450 floor actions were filed; at least 47 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. (See FULL LIST link later in this issue)

All committee agendas (House, Senate, Joint Legislative Budget Committee or JLBC) are posted at this link. All Floor Calendars are linked here.

Also: Standing Committee members are posted at: http://www.azleg.gov/StandingCom.asp.

Monday, February 4th marks the Senate Bill Introduction Deadline and Monday, February 11th marks the House Bill Introduction Deadline.

*********************************************** Legislation

Legislative action on just a few of the bills tracked by the Council on Aging is outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: summaries are provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA and found on the FULL LIST.

S1090: Dependent Children; Placement; Grandparents; Stipend, 1/24 from Senate Health & Human Services with amendment. Senate Summary 1/22: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/s.1090hhs- approp.pdf.

S1286: Nursing Facility Provider Assessment, 1/30 referred to Senate Health & Human Services.

S1304: Palliative Care, 1/31 referred to the Senate Health & Human Services Committee.

SCR1014: Vietnam War; Commemorative Partner, 1/30 referred to the Senate Commerce, Energy and Military Committee. H2045: AHCCCS; Hospital Reimbursement Methodology, 1/30 from House Health Committee with do pass. House Summary: 1/30/2013 CaucusCOW (Committee of the Whole) is provided at: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.hb2045_01-30- 13_caucuscow.pdf

H2167: Autonomous Motor Vehicles, 1/31 from House Transportation Committee with do pass. House Summary 1/29/2013 Transportation is provided at: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.hb2167_01-25- 13_trans.pdf

2405: Nursing Care; Assisted Living, Investigations, 1/23 referred to House Health and House Judiciary Committees.

2407: Qualified Immunity; Nonprofit Clinics, 1/23 referred to House Health and Insurance & Retirement Committees.

H2426: Mobile Dentistry, 1/23 referred to House Health Committee.

Hearings next week:

H2405: Nursing care; Assisted Living, Investigations, 2/6 at 9 am, House Health Committee, House Room 4

H2426: Mobile Dentistry, 2/6 at 9 am, House Health Committee, House Room 4.

S1090: Dependent Children; Placement; Grandparents; Stipend, 2/5 at 2 pm, Senate Appropriations Committee, Senate Room 109

S1286: Nursing Facility Provider Assessment, 2/6 at 2 pm, Senate Health & Human Services, Senate Room 1.

Summary of actions

As of day 19, at least 921 bills posted, one (1) bill passed; one (1) bill signed; 48 memorials or resolutions posted and one (1) passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and will be tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report page.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

Note: The FULL LIST web report above provides you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about the bills being tracked by the Council and is available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited and/or expanded as we have an opportunity to get through all of the bills posted. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times.

Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, February 4, 2013, 1:30 p.m.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill and From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

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Fiscal News

From the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC)

Finance Advisory Committee Revenue and Budget Update January 24, 2013 is linked here.

The Governor's Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Information is posted at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/Priorities/BudgetInfo.asp.

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Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· District maps can be found here.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

Follow up

H.R.8 American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012

A link to a full summary is provided here. ***********************************************

NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website http://thomas.loc.gov/ and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

Share your opinions with your Congressional Members!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

**********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

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OTHER NEWS

From the CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Information on STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths & Injuries) is linked here.

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From the National Council on Aging – NCOA

Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2012: Standing Together to Prevent Falls State Highlights is provided at: http://www.ncoa.org/improve-health/center- for-healthy-aging/content-library/FPAD-2012-Highlights-12-31- 2012.pdf

Information specific to Arizona is linked here.

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Taken from the Administration for Community Living

Monday, January 28, 2013 ACL News & Info issue "Older Americans Month 2013 Logo and Other Materials Now Available

The Older Americans Month theme for 2013, Unleash the Power of Age, has never been more fitting. Older Americans are productive, active, and influential members of society, sharing essential talents, wisdom, and life experience with their families, friends, and neighbors. The Administration on Aging is pleased to provide materials to assist our partners at the national, state, and local levels plan for activities in commemoration of Older Americans Month.

Click here to view and download Older Americans Month 2013 materials.

Additional information and materials to help your organization celebrate Older Americans Month will be coming soon. New Aging and Disability Network Participant Direction Toolkit

The National Resource Center for Participant-Directed Services (NRCPDS) is excited to announce the release of the Aging and Disability Network Toolkit. This toolkit, funded by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and developed by NRCPDS, serves the Aging & Disability Network with an interactive educational resource on both the philosophical foundations and practices of participant direction and the structural and operational elements of a well-developed participant-directed program; including details about program design, implementation, and evaluation.

The toolkit is divided into two sections: The Program Toolkit is devoted to designing, managing and evaluating participant-directed programs. Part two of the toolkit focuses on Financial Management Services.

Read more about this new resource for the Aging & Disability Network."

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted here. (Be sure to scroll to the top of the page for current information.)

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From Kaiser Family Foundation

Medicare Policy Options to Sustain Medicare for the Future January 2013 is provided at: http://www.kff.org/medicare/upload/8402.pdf.

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From the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

2013 Poverty Guidelines http://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/13poverty.cfm

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On Wear Red Day, information on the Million Hearts national initiative is provided at: http://millionhearts.hhs.gov/index.html.

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

AzLinks.gov provides easy access to public, private services, supports and information. Brochure: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/Newsletter/2013/AAA- 1162APAMNAFinal.pdf

Spanish version http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/Newsletter/2013/AAA- 1162APAMSFINAL.PDF

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WHAT: 2013 Arizona Senior Olympics

WHEN: Saturday, February 16th through Sunday, March 10th in locations throughout the state

For more information, go to: http://www.seniorgames.org/General_Information.html.

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WHAT: Alzheimer's Association Green Valley Education Conference

WHEN: February 14, 2013, 8:30 am to 11:30 am, West Social Center, 1111 Via Arco Iris, Green Valley

More information is provided at this link.

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WHAT: All Things Senior EXPO

WHEN: Wednesday, February 20, 2013 9 am to 1 pm, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E 2nd Street, Scottsdale AZ

More information is provided at this link.

*********************************************** WHAT: 2nd Annual African-American Conference on Disabilities

WHEN: March 1, 2013, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm, Coast Phoenix Sky Harbor Hotel, 4300 E. Washington, Phoenix, AZ 85034

For more information, go to this link.

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WHAT: 19th Mayor's Alzheimer's Education Conference

WHEN: Wednesday, March 13, 2013, Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 East River Road, Tucson, AZ 85718

For information is provided here.

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WHAT: 25th Annual Arizona Indian Council on Aging Conference Celebrating 25 Years of the Arizona Indian Council on Aging

WHEN: April 15-18, 2013, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85256

More information is provided here.

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Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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Enjoy your weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for February 8, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Since last Friday, 526 floor actions were filed; at least 49 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. (See FULL LIST link later in this issue)

All committee agendas (House, Senate, Joint Legislative Budget Committee or JLBC) are posted at this link. All Floor Calendars are linked here.

Also: Standing Committees and members are posted at: http://www.azleg.gov/StandingCom.asp.

2013 Session Timeline

Monday, February 11th marks the House Bill Introduction Deadline; Friday, February 22nd is the last day to hear Senate Bills in Senate Committees and last day to hear House Bills in House Committees.

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Legislation

Legislative action on some of the bills tracked by the Council on Aging is outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: summaries are provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA and found on the FULL LIST.

S1090: dependent children; placement; grandparents; stipend, from Senate Appropriations with amendment linked here. 2/11 Senate Rules agenda linked here. Fact Sheet is provided at this link.

S1102: hearing aid dispensers, audiologist, 2/7 from Senate Health & Human Services Committee with amendment. Adopted amendment is linked here and proposed amendment here. Fact sheet: https://www.azcapitolreports.com/viewhtm.cfm?id=183178.

S1408: fingerprint clearance cardholders; background checks, 2/5 referred to Senate Public Safety Committee. A person who holds a valid fingerprint clearance card is not required to submit a full set of fingerprints for the purpose of obtaining a subsequent criminal history record check for any other reason. This must be printed on fingerprint clearance cards. H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, 2/6 from House Health Committee with amendment. 2/6 House Summary is linked here.

H2426: mobile dentistry, 2/6 from House Health with amendment. 2/6 House Summary is provided here.

Hearings next week:

H2401: service animal; definition, 2/13 House Health at 10 am, Room 4.

H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, 2/12 House Insurance and Retirement at 2 pm, room 3.

H2426: mobile dentistry, 2/11 House Rules at 1 pm, Room 4

S1090: dependent children; placement; grandparents; stipend, 2/11 Senate Rules at 1 pm, Senate Caucus room

S1102: hearing aid dispensers; audiologist, 2/11 at 1 pm, Senate Rules Committee, senate Caucus room

S1175: vulnerable adult; duty, 2/11 Senate Judiciary at adjournment of the floor, Senate room 109

S1408: fingerprint clearance cardholders; background checks, 2/13 Senate Public Safety at 2 pm, Senate room 109.

Reminder: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are all provided on the legislation tracked by the Council at the FULL List link provided below.

As of day 26, 1,065 bills posted, two (2) bills passed; two (2) bills signed; 54 memorials or resolutions posted and two (2) passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and will be tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report page.

Please be advised that the presence of a bill on the Council's tracking list does not represent support or opposition by the Council to that bill. It does mean that the bill is likely to be of interest to or have an impact on older Arizonans so the Council is tracking the bill's progress.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

Note: The FULL LIST web report above provides you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about the bills being tracked by the Council and is available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited and/or expanded as we have an opportunity to get through the bills, as posted. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times. Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, February 11, 2013, 1:30 p.m.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill and From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

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Fiscal News

From the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC)

JLBC Staff Report - FY 2012 Debt and Lease-Purchase Financing Report is linked here.

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Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· Or contacting your legislator from your area; locate your legislator by going to the Arizona State Legislature website and looking for: How do I find My Legislators or by following the instructions provided at both the Senate and House Member links at the website.

· District maps can be found here.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

H.R.370

Savings for Seniors Act of 2013

Introduced on 1/23/2013 by Representative Marsha Blackburn (TN-7)

Intent: To amend title II of the Social Security Act to establish a Social Security Surplus Protection Account in the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund to hold the Social Security surplus, to provide for suspension of investment of amounts held in the Account until enactment of legislation providing for investment of the Trust Fund in investment vehicles other than obligations of the United States, and to establish a Social Security Investment Commission to make recommendations for alternative forms of investment of the Social Security surplus in the Trust Fund.

On 1/23/2013, referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. H.R. 387

Social Security Earnings Test Repeal Act of 2013

Introduced on 1/23/2013 by Representative Gene Green (TX-29)

Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to remove the limitation on the amount of outside income which a beneficiary may earn (earnings test) without incurring a reduction in benefits.

On 1/23/2013, the bill was referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

S.92

A bill to require that the Government give priority to payment of all obligations on the debt held by the public and payment of Social Security benefits in the event that the debt limit is reached.

Introduced on 1/23/2013 by Senator David Vitter (LA), the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Finance.

S.234

A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain retired members of the uniformed services who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service or Combat-Related Special Compensation, and for other purposes.

Introduced on 2/7/2013 by Senator Harry Reid (NV). The bill was referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website http://thomas.loc.gov/ and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members Senate members

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You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

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OTHER NEWS

From the Administration for Community Living ACL Newsletter

Monday, February 4, 2013

Recent Reports

Labor Force Participation and Work Status of People 65 Years and Older

Source: US Census Bureau

Date: January 2013

The Sandwich Generation: Rising Financial Burdens for Middle-Aged Americans

Source: Pew Research Center

Date: January 30, 2013

Tracking for Health

Source: Pew Research Center's Internet & American Life Project

Date: January 2013

A Healthier America 2013: Strategies to Move from Sick Care to Health Care in Four Years

Source: Trust for America's Health

Date: January 2013

StateData: The National Report on Employment Services and Outcomes (2011)

Source: Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI) at the University of Massachusetts Boston Date: Winter 2012-13

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U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

National Health Services Corps announcement is linked here.

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From the National Eye Institute Resource: Living With Low Vision is linked here.

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll to the top of the page.)

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Kaiser Health News

From Capsules THE KHN BLOG – 2/5/2013

Research reporting hospitalizations and use of intensive care and hospice by seniors is linked here.

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Disability.gov website provides comprehensive information on disability programs and services in communities nationwide. A fact sheet for http://www.disability.gov/ is linked here.

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From the National Council on Aging – NCOA

Tools for dealing with a chronic condition http://www.ncoa.org/improve-health/chronic-conditions/

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From the Sloan Center on Aging & Work at Boston College

Over 70 and Back to Work? is linked here.

*********************************************** From SAMHSA, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Disaster Response Template Toolkit: http://www.samhsa.gov/dtac/dbhis/dbhis_templates_intro.asp

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Older Adults and Oral Health from Administration on Aging website

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

Income Tax Assistance and Tax Credit Information

2-1-1 Arizona includes these resources at: http://www.211arizona.org/tax.

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WHAT: 2013 Arizona Senior Olympics

WHEN: Saturday, February 16th through Sunday, March 10th in locations throughout the state

For more information, go to: http://www.seniorgames.org/General_Information.html

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WHAT: All Things Senior EXPO

WHEN: Wednesday, February 20, 2013 9 am to 1 pm, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E 2nd Street, Scottsdale AZ

More information is provided at this link.

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WHAT: Helping the Helpers, Equipping those who Interact with Family Caregivers

WHEN: Friday, March 8, 2013, 9 am to 4 pm, Desert Springs Community Church, 14440 West Indian School Road, Goodyear, Arizona 85395

More information is provided at this link.

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WHAT: Arizona Stand Down WHEN: March 8 – 10, 2013, Veteran's Memorial Coliseum/State Fairgrounds

For more information, go to: http://www.arizonastanddown.org/

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WHAT: Senior Resources Conference & Expo

WHEN: Friday, March 15, 10 am to 3 pm, Liberty Traditional School, 3300 N. Lake Valley Road, Prescott Valley

For more information, open this link.

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AzLinks.gov provides easy access to public, private services, supports and information.

Brochure is provided here.

Spanish version brochure is linked here.

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Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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Enjoy your weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for February 15, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Since last Friday, 534 floor actions filed; at least 42 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. (See FULL LIST link later in this issue)

All committee agendas (House, Senate, Joint Legislative Budget Committee or JLBC) are posted at this link. All Floor Calendars are linked here.

Also: Standing Committees and their members are posted at: http://www.azleg.gov/StandingCom.asp.

2013 Session Timeline

Friday, February 22nd marks the last day for Senate Bills to be heard in Senate Committees and House Bills to be heard in House Committees.

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Legislation

Legislative action on some of the bills tracked by the Council on Aging is outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: summaries are also provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA and found on the FULL LIST.

H2401: service animal, definition, 2/13 from House Health Committee with amendment. House summary is shown here and amendment here.

H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, 2/12 from House Insurance and Retirement Committee with do pass. House summary provided here.

H2426 mobile dentistry, 2/14 from House Committee of the Whole (COW) with amendment.

H2594: local transportation assistance fund; restoration, 2/12 referred to the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources Committee.

S1090: dependent children; placement; grandparents; stipend, from Senate Committee of the Whole with approved amendments. Floor amendment provided here and here.

S1102: hearing aid dispensers, audiologist, 2/12 from Senate Rules with okay; 2/14 from Senate Committee of the Whole with amendment.

S1341: vulnerable adults; financial exploitation, 2/15 Senate Fact Sheet is provided here. Senate Fact Sheet provided here.

S1408: fingerprint clearance cardholders; background checks, 2/13 Senate Public Safety held. Fact Sheet is linked here.

Hearings next week:

Monday, 2/18

H2594: local transportation assistance fund; restoration, 2/18 House Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee at 2 pm, House Rm 4.

LOLA Summary: Establishes the Local Transportation Assistance Fund consisting of various State Lottery Fund monies and annual appropriations to provide that the total monies available in each fiscal year equal $20.5 million. Municipalities and counties will receive monies from LTAF in the proportion that their population bears to the total population. Annual State Lottery Fund transfers to the general fund are reduced. Also establishes the AZ State Parks Board of Heritage Fund consisting of specified State Lottery Fund monies.

H2401: service animal; definition, 2/13 House Health at 10 am, Room 4.

H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, 2/12 House Insurance and Retirement at 2 pm, room 3.

S1237: guardianships, conservatorships; transfer, 2/18 at 1 pm, Senate room 1.

S1341: vulnerable adults; financial exploitation, 2/18 Senate Room 1

Wednesday, 2/20

S1353: health insurance; telemedicine, 2/20 Senate Health & Human Services at 2 pm, Senate Room 1

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ALSO of interest

On Monday, the Governor announced the introduction of legislation aimed at simplifying the State's Transaction Privilege Tax (sales tax) code. The press release is provided here. H2657: transaction privilege tax changes information can be found on the FULL LIST link below. REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are all provided on the legislation tracked by the Council at the FULL List link provided below.

As of day 33, at least 1,145 bills posted, two (2) bills passed; two (2) bills signed; 67 memorials or resolutions posted and two (2) passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and will be tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report page.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

Note: The FULL LIST web report above provides you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about the bills being tracked by the Council and is available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited and/or expanded as we have an opportunity to get through the bills as posted. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times.

Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, February 18, 2013, 1:30 p.m.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill and From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

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Fiscal News

From the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC)

Tracking Arizona’s Recovery February 2013 is linked here.

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Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· District maps can be found here.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

H.R.713

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare outpatient rehabilitation therapy caps.

Introduced on 2/14/2013 by Representative Jim Gerlach (PA-6), the bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Ways and Means.

(Summary of text pending)

H.R.738:

To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the requirement that certain former members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces be at least 60 years of age in order to be eligible to receive health care benefits.

Introduced on 2/14/2013 by Representative Joe Wilson (SC-2), the bill was referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

(Summary of text pending)

S. 46

Ensuring the Full Faith and Credit of the United States and Protecting America’s Soldiers and Seniors Act

Introduced on 1/22/2013 by Senator Pat Toomey (PA)

Ensuring the Full Faith and Credit of the United States and Protecting America's Soldiers and Seniors Act - Requires the following to take equal priority over all other federally incurred obligations in the event that the public debt reaches the statutory limit:

(1) the authority of the Department of the Treasury to pay with legal tender the principal and interest on debt held by the public;

(2) the authority of the Commissioner of Social Security to pay monthly Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance benefits under title II of the Social Security Act; and (3) the payment of pay and allowances for members of the Armed Forces on active duty.

Requires the Secretary of the Treasury, if the Secretary determines that incoming revenue will not be sufficient to finance the priorities described in this Act over the following two weeks, to:

(1) notify Congress of the expected revenue shortfall, and

(2) raise the debt limit by the amount necessary to cover the difference between incoming revenue and the revenue needed to finance such priorities on a two-week basis.

Prohibits such a debt limit increase from exceeding the difference between expected outlays for the listed priorities and expected revenue. Places in reserve and applies to the following two-week period any amount of incoming revenue in excess of the amount projected by the Secretary as necessary to finance such priorities.

On 1/22/2013, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Finance.

S.328:

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to allow certain critical access hospitals and sole community hospitals to use interactive telecommunications systems to satisfy requirements with respect to having a physician available to stabilize an individual with an emergency medical condition under the Medicare program.

Introduced on 2/14/2013 by Senator John Thune (SD) and referred to the Senate Committee on Finance.

(Summary of text pending)

H.R.473

Safe Food for Seniors Act of 2013

Introduced on 2/4/2013 by Representative Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11)

To amend titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act with respect to the qualification of the director of food services of a Medicare skilled nursing facility or a Medicaid nursing facility.

On 2/4/2013, referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.

***********************************************

NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website http://thomas.loc.gov/ and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status. Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

***********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

***********************************************

OTHER NEWS

From the Administration for Community Living ACL Newsletter

Monday, February 11, 2013

Recent Reports

The Affordable Care Act – A Stronger Medicare Program in 2012

Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

Date: February 2013

Centenarians: 2010

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Date: December 2012

Findings and Lessons From the Enabling Patient-Centered Care Through Health IT Grant Initiative

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)

Date: February 2013

Adult Smoking: Focusing on People with Mental Illness Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Vital Signs

Date: February 2013

Identifying and Selecting Long-Term Services and Supports Outcome Measures Source: National Senior Citizens Law Center

Date: January 2013

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll to the top of the page.)

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Kaiser Health News

The Y Rolls Out New Health Program Targeting Diabetes is linked here.

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National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities NASUAD February 2013 State Health Insurance Assistance Programs looks at SHIP staffing and volunteer levels and is linked here.

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National Council on Aging – NCOA

Home Equity Advisor is posted here.

Tips on Saving Money on Your Medications is linked here.

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SAMHSA, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Older Americans Behavioral Health Issue Brief 6: Depression and Anxiety: Screening and Intervention is linked here.

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National Institutes of Health

Sleep and Memory in the Aging Brain can be found here.

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Food and Drug Administration Guidance for Industry Alzheimer's Disease: Developing Drugs for the Treatment of Early Stage Disease is linked here.

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U.S. Department of Treasury and the Federal Reserve Banks, Go Direct website provides information on switching electronic payments by March 1, 2013. Website is linked here.

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

Income Tax Assistance and Tax Credit Information

2-1-1 Arizona includes these resources at: http://www.211arizona.org/tax.

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WHAT: Family Caregiver Training Free Workshops provided by Luminaria Home Care, a program of Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest in partnership with Pima Council on Aging and funded by DES/Division of Aging & Adult Services

WHEN: Workshops are offered in February and March

Workshop Flyer is provided here.

Workshop information is provided here.

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WHAT: Arizona Coalition for Assisted Living Meeting and Education Segment

WHEN: February 26, 2013, 1:30 to 4 pm, Southwest Ambulance Training Center, East Bldg., 708 W. Baseline Road, Mesa, AZ 85210

For more information, call 480-292-5155.

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WHAT: 22nd Annual Alzheimer's Education Conference

WHEN: March 1, 2013, East Valley Institute of Technology, 1601 W Main Street, Mesa AZ 85201

More information is posted at this link and here.

*********************************************** WHAT: Helping the Helpers, Equipping those who Interact with Family Caregivers

WHEN: Friday, March 8, 2013, 9 am to 4 pm, Desert Springs Community Church, 14440 West Indian School Road, Goodyear, Arizona 85395

More information is provided at this link.

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WHAT: Arizona Stand Down

WHEN: March 8 – 10, 2013, Veteran's Memorial Coliseum/State Fairgrounds

For more information, go to: http://www.arizonastanddown.org/

**********************************************

WHAT: Senior Resources Conference & Expo

WHEN: Friday, March 15, 10 am to 3 pm, Liberty Traditional School, 3300 N. Lake Valley Road, Prescott Valley

For more information, open this link.

***********************************************

Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

***********************************************

Thank you and enjoy your weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for February 22, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Since last Friday, 655 floor actions filed; at least 74 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. (See FULL LIST link on page 2) Check the Senate and House daily posting sheets regarding actions taken provided here.

All committee agendas (House, Senate, Joint Legislative Budget Committee or JLBC) are posted at this link. All Floor Calendars are linked here.

Also: Standing Committees and their members are listed at this link.

2013 Session Timeline

Today marks the last day for Senate Bills to be heard in Senate Committees and House Bills to be heard in House Committees.

Senate deadlines posted at: http://www.azleg.gov/alispdfs/51leg/senate/senatedeadlines.pdf

House deadlines posted at: http://www.azleg.gov/alispdfs/50leg/house/housedeadlines.pdf

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Legislation

Legislative action on some of the bills tracked by the Council on Aging is outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: summaries are also provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA and found on the FULL LIST.

H2040: Strike Everything Amendment, 2/20 from House Health with amendment linked here and House Summary is provided here.

H2206: advance fee brokers; 2/19 referred to Senate Finance; House Summary is provided here.

H2355: license fees; working dog; waiver, 2/21 from House Committee of the Whole approved. H2405: nursing home; assisted living; investigations; 2/22 House Summary is linked here.

H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, 2/18 from House Rules with ok.

H2426 mobile dentistry, 2/21 passed House 58-1; ready for Senate.

H2484: veterans; hiring preference; tax credit, 2/20 from House Public Safety, Military & Regulatory Affairs with amendment. House summary is provided here and amendment here.

H2594: local transportation assistance fund; restoration, 2/18 House Summary provided here.

S1090: dependent children; placement; grandparents; stipend, 2/19 referred to House Reform & Human Services, Appropriations.

S1102: hearing aid dispensers, audiologist, 2/19 referred to House Health Committee.

S1341: vulnerable adults; financial exploitation, 2/19 from Senate Judiciary do pass.

S1353: health insurance; telemedicine, 2/20 from Senate Health and Human Services amended. Fact sheet is linked here and amendment provided here.

Hearings next week:

Monday, 2/25

H2401: service animal; definition, House Committee of the Whole

H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, House Committee of the Whole

S1102: hearing aid dispensers; audiologists, 2/27 at 10 am, House Health Committee, Rm 4.

S1237: guardianships, conservatorships; transfer, 2/25 at 1 pm, Senate Caucus Room 1.

S1341: vulnerable adults; financial exploitation, 2/25 at 1 pm, Senate Caucus Room 1.

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REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are all provided on the legislation tracked by the Council at the FULL List link provided below.

As of day 40, 1,145 bills posted, two (2) bills passed; two (2) bills signed; 69 memorials or resolutions posted and two (2) passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and will be tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report page.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960&listid =47124&print=true

Note: The FULL LIST web report above provides you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about the bills being tracked by the Council and is available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited and/or expanded as we have an opportunity to get through the bills as posted. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times.

Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, February 25, 2013, 1:30 p.m.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill and From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

**********************************************

Fiscal News

From the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC)

JLBC Monthly Fiscal Highlights February 2013 is posted here and states, "January General Fund revenue collections totaled $915.1 million. Base revenues, which exclude one-time adjustments, were 4.0% above the prior year."

The JLBC 2/20/13 Appropriations Committee Presentations, (link: http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/14appropspresentations.pdf) includes information on AHCCCS, DES and Department of Health Services.

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Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1- 800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· District maps can be found here.

***********************************************

FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

H.R.1845 Medicare IVIG Access and Strengthening Medicare and Repaying Taxpayers Act of 2012

Introduced on 5/11/2011 by Representative Kevin Brady (TX-8)

Became Public Law No: 112-242 on 1/10/2013.

Title I: Medicare IVIG Access - (Sec. 101)

Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a three-year demonstration project under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to evaluate the benefits of providing payment for items and services needed for the in-home administration of intravenous immune globin (IVIG) for the treatment of primary immune deficiency diseases.

Requires the Secretary to enroll up to 4,000 Medicare beneficiaries who have been diagnosed with primary immunodeficiency disease for participation in the project.

Requires that generally items and services for which payment may be made under the demonstration program be treated and covered under SSA title XVIII part B in the same manner as similar items and services covered under that part.

Directs the Secretary to establish a per visit payment amount for items and services needed for the in-home IVIG administration based on the national per visit low- utilization payment amount under the prospective payment system for home health services under Medicare.

Authorizes the Secretary to waive such Medicare requirements as may be necessary to carry out the demonstration project.

Specifies requirements for interim and final evaluations for Congress of the impact of the demonstration project on Medicare beneficiary access to items and services needed for in-home IVIG administration.

Requires the final report to Congress to: (1) analyze the appropriateness of implementing a new payment methodology for IVIGs in all care settings under Medicare part B; and (3) update the report entitled "Analysis of Supply, Distribution, Demand, and Access Issues Associated with Immune Globulin Intravenous (IGIV)," issued in February 2007 by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of HHS for Planning and Evaluation. Makes specified funds available for the project from the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund.

Title II: Strengthening Medicare Secondary Payer Rules - (Sec. 201) Adds requirements for determination through a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) website of a final amount for reimbursement to the appropriate Trust Fund for a conditional Medicare secondary payment in the event that a beneficiary's primary plan proves to be responsible.

Allows a Medicare claimant or applicable plan, within 120 days before the reasonably expected date of a settlement, judgment, award, or other payment, to notify the Secretary that a payment is reasonably expected and the payment's expected date.

Directs the Secretary to maintain and make available to Medicare beneficiaries (and to authorized family or other recognized representatives and to an applicable plan which has obtained the beneficiary's consent) access through a CMS website to information on claims for items and services, including those relating to a potential settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. Prescribes requirements for such a website.

Deems to be the final conditional amount subject to recovery related to a settlement, judgment, award, or other payment any statement of reimbursement amount an individual downloads from the CMS website during a specified protected period, if the settlement, judgment, award, or other payment is made during the same period. Prescribes requirements for resolution of discrepancies with a statement of reimbursement amount.

Directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations establishing a right of appeal and an appeals process with respect to any payment determination for which recovery of conditional payments is sought from an applicable primary plan.

(Sec. 202) Creates an exception to the requirement that a primary plan (and any entity receiving payment from a primary plan) reimburse the appropriate Trust Fund for any Medicare payment with respect to an item or service if the primary plan has or had a responsibility to make the payment.

Declares that this repayment requirement shall not apply with respect to any settlement, judgment, or other payment by an applicable plan arising from liability insurance (including self-insurance) and from alleged physical trauma-based incidents (excluding alleged ingestion, implantation, or exposure cases) constituting a total payment obligation to a claimant of not more than a single threshold amount calculated by the Secretary for the year involved.

Directs the Secretary to calculate and publish a single threshold amount annually according to a specified formula (excluding ongoing expenses).

Requires the Secretary to report annually to Congress on the single threshold amount for settlements, judgments, awards, or other payments for conditional payment obligations arising from liability insurance and alleged incidents, but also on the establishment and application of similar thresholds for conditional payment obligations arising from worker compensation cases and no fault insurance cases. (Sec. 203) Changes from mandatory to discretionary the civil monetary penalty of up to $1,000 for an applicable plan that fails to comply with requirements for determining if a claimant is entitled to Medicare benefits and for submitting to the Secretary for each day of noncompliance with respect to each claimant related information by or on behalf of liability insurance (including self-insurance), no fault insurance, and workers' compensation laws and plans.

Directs the Secretary to publish a notice in the Federal Register soliciting proposals for the specification of practices for which sanctions will and will not be imposed (safe harbors). Requires the Secretary, after considering the proposals submitted, to publish in the Federal Register, for comment, proposed specified practices for which such sanctions will and will not be imposed. Requires the Secretary, after considering any public comment, to issue final rules specifying such practices.

(Sec. 204) Requires the Secretary to modify insurance information reporting requirements so that an applicable plan, in complying with them, is permitted but not required to access or report to the Secretary beneficiary Social Security account numbers or health identification claim numbers.

Requires extension of the deadline for such modification by one or more periods of up to one year each if the Secretary notifies appropriate congressional committees that the prior deadline, without an extension, threatens patient privacy or the integrity of the secondary payer program.

(Sec. 205) Sets a three-year statute of limitations on a Medicare secondary payer claim by the Secretary for reimbursement against an applicable plan that becomes a Medicare primary payer pursuant to a settlement, judgment, award, or other payment made relating to the payment owed.

ALSO: Recent action related to Sequestration

H.R.699

To amend the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to repeal and replace the fiscal year 2013 sequestration.

Introduced on 2/14/2013 by Representative Chris Van Hollen (MD-8)

2/14/2013 Referred to House Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on the Budget, and Agriculture. (text and summary pending)

H.R.729

To amend the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to exempt the National Institutes of Health from sequestration under section 251A for fiscal year 2013, and to reduce the sequestration by the amount of the exemption.

Introduced on 2/14/2013 by Representative Jim McDermott (WA-7) 2/14/2013 Referred to House Committee on the Budget. (text and summary pending) H.R.773

To amend the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to exempt the Department of Defense from reduction under any order issued to carry out a sequestration pursuant to section 251A.

Introduced on 2/15/2013 by Representative J. Randy Forbes (VA-4) 2/15/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on the Budget. (text and summary pending)

**********************************************

NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website http://thomas.loc.gov/ and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

***********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

***********************************************

OTHER NEWS

From Kaiser Family Foundation/Robert Wood Johnson Foundation/Harvard School of Public Health January 2013

The Public's HealthCare Agenda for the 113th Congress findings is linked here.

***********************************************

From the U.S. Census

2010 Census Report Shows More Than 80 Percent of Centenarians are Women - article is linked here. Centenarians 2010 report is linked here.

***********************************************

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced Smart Growth Implementation Assistance: http://epa.gov/smartgrowth/sgia.htm.

***********************************************

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is April 27th

The U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Diversion Control has posted information at this site.

***********************************************

Administration for Community Living has a new website: http://www.acl.gov/

See Aging Programs page

Tools and Resource Factsheets link

Also from ACL: Transit Planning 4 All

Inclusive Planning Project RFP is linked here.

***********************************************

National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll to the top of the page.)

**********************************************

Kaiser Health News

2/20/13 In Arizona, Poorest, Sickest Patients Get Coordinated Care: http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2013/February/20/Arizona- dual-eligible-Medicaid-Medicare.aspx

**********************************************

From the Sloan Center on Aging & Work at Boston College

The Business of Aging blog is provided here. ***********************************************

USA.Gov resources for seniors: http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Seniors.shtml

***********************************************

INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

WHAT: Direct Care Worker DCW Test-the Trainer Workshop

WHEN: February 28 – March 1, 2013, Prescott, Arizona

The training is not mandatory by DES or AHCCCS, however, it is designed to help prepare and provide an opportunity for trainers to take the written and skills tests.

More information is available at this link. For questions, contact Mary Chapman at (520) 709-1940 or [email protected]

***********************************************

WHEN: Workshops are offered in February and March

Workshop Flyer is provided here.

Workshop information is provided here.

***********************************************

WHAT: Arizona Stand Down

WHEN: March 8 – 10, 2013, Veteran's Memorial Coliseum/State Fairgrounds

For more information, go to: http://www.arizonastanddown.org/

**********************************************

ALSO:

UA College of Medicine, Phoenix Campus

Start Smart and Science Café Free Lectures

For more information, go to: http://uacomphx- lectureseries.eventbrite.com/ ***********************************************

Income Tax Assistance and Tax Credit Information

2-1-1 Arizona includes these resources at: http://www.211arizona.org/tax.

***********************************************

Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

***********************************************

Thank you! Enjoy your weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for March 1, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Since last Friday, 655 floor actions filed; at least 76 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. (See FULL LIST link)

Check the Senate and House daily posting sheets regarding actions taken provided here.

All committee agendas (House, Senate, Joint Legislative Budget Committee or JLBC) are posted at this link. All Floor Calendars are linked here.

Also: Standing Committees and their members are listed at this link.

2013 Session Timeline

The next deadline is Friday, March 22nd, the last day to hear Senate Bills in House Committees and the last day to hear House Bills in Senate Committees.

Senate deadlines http://www.azleg.gov/alispdfs/51leg/senate/senatedeadlines.pdf

House deadlines http://www.azleg.gov/alispdfs/50leg/house/housedeadlines.pdf

*********************************************** Legislation:

Legislative action that has taken place on some of the bills tracked by the Council on Aging is outlined here. Note: you can view summaries provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA on the FULL LIST report.

H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, 2/28 referred to Senate Health & Human Services; Judiciary committees.

H2484: veterans; hiring preference; tax credit, 2/28 withdrawn from House Ways & Means Committee

S1175: vulnerable adults, duty, 2/28 from House Judiciary do pass

S1286: nursing facility provider assessment, 2/28 passed Senate 28-0; ready for House S1341: vulnerable adults; financial exploitation, 2/28 referred to House Reform & Human Services

S1353: health insurance; telemedicine, 2/28 Senate Committee of the Whole (COW) approved with floor amendment, a substitute for amend

Hearings next week:

Monday, 3/4

S1353: health insurance; telemedicine, Senate Third Reading, Senate Rm 1

Wednesday, 3/6

H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, Senate Health & Human Services

Thursday, 3/7

S1090: dependent children; placement; grandparents; stipend, 9 am, House Rm 1

***********************************************

REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are all provided on the legislation tracked by the Council at the FULL LIST link provided below.

As of day 47, 1,145 bills posted, two (2) bills passed; two (2) bills signed; 70 memorials or resolutions posted and three (3) passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and are being tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report page.

Many of the bills that have been tracked by the Council on Aging appear to be "dead," (were not assigned to committee) and we are in the process of editing the list linked in our email newsletter. Please be advised that the presence of a bill on the Council’s tracking list does not represent support or opposition by the Council to that bill. It does mean that the bill is likely to be of interest to or have an impact on older Arizonans so the Council is tracking the bill's progress.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960&listid=4 7124&print=true

Note: The FULL LIST web report provides you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about bills being tracked by the Council and is available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited as the session progresses. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times. Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, March 4, 2013, 1:30 p.m.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill and From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

**********************************************

Fiscal News

From the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC)

Revised Technical Tables in the Comparison of JLBC Baseline and Executive Recommendation ***********************************************

Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· District maps can be found here.

***********************************************

FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

Without Congressional action taking place, automatic, across-the- board cuts take effect today.

The National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities, NASUAD's analysis of impact is linked here.

***********************************************

H.R.466

Social Security Death Master File Privacy Act of 2013

Introduced on 2/4/2013 by Representative Michael E. Capuano (MA-7)

Social Security Death Master File Privacy Act of 2013 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to prohibit the Commissioner of Social Security from publishing in the Death Master File (or any other public database containing information relating to the death of individuals) the Social Security account number of any deceased individual.

Prohibits the Commissioner from being compelled to disclose the Social Security account number of any deceased individual to any member of the public under the Freedom of Information Act.

Authorizes the Commissioner to share with federal and state agencies certain information relating to deceased individuals.

On 2/14/2013, referred to the House Subcommittee on Social Security.

H.R.861 To better protect, serve, and advance the rights of victims of elder abuse and exploitation by establishing a program to encourage States and other qualified entities to create jobs designed to hold offenders accountable, enhance the capacity of the justice system to investigate, pursue, and prosecute elder abuse cases, identify existing resources to leverage to the extent possible, and assure data collection, research, and evaluation to promote the efficacy and efficiency of the activities described in this Act.

Introduced on 2/27/2013 by Representative Peter T. King (NY-2)

On 2/27/2013, referred to the House committee on the Judiciary. (Text of the legislation pending)

**********************************************

NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website (http://thomas.loc.gov/) and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

Another resource:

Congress.gov United States Legislative Information: http://beta.congress.gov/

Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members ***********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

***********************************************

OTHER NEWS

Administration for Community Living

ACL News & Info, Monday, February 25, 2013

Recent Reports

Food Insecurity among Households with Working-Age Adults with Disabilities

Source: U.S. department of Agriculture

Date: January 2013

The Single Streamlined Application Under the Affordable Care Act: Key Elements of the Proposed Application and Current Medicaid and CHIP Applications

Source: Kaiser Family Foundation

Date: February 2013

The Revolving Door: A Report on U.S. Hospital Readmissions (An Analysis of Medicare Data by the Dartmouth Atlas Project)

Source: Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

Date: February 2013

***********************************************

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is April 27th

The U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Diversion Control has posted information at this site.

***********************************************

NCOA list of Key Congressional Committees

*********************************************** National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll up to the top of the page.)

**********************************************

From the Departments of the Treasury and Housing & Urban Development: Making Home Affordable.Gov.

**********************************************

From the Sloan Center on Aging & Work at Boston College

Flexibility at Work: Employee Perceptions – Quick Insights report is provided here.

***********************************************

INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

WHAT: Senior Resources Conference & Expo

WHEN: March 15, 2013, Liberty Traditional School, 3300 N. Lake Valley Rd., Prescott Valley, AZ

For more information, see this link.

***********************************************

WHAT: Arizona Stand Down

WHEN: March 8 – 10, 2013, Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum/State Fairgrounds

For more information, go to: http://www.arizonastanddown.org/

**********************************************

ALSO:

AHCCCS is holding community forums to provide more information on the Medicaid Coverage Plan and gather input. More information is provided on their webpage linked here.

***********************************************

Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp. ***********************************************

***********************************************

Have a good weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for March 8, 2013

Note: We’re sending this abbreviated version today due to Council meetings and appreciate your understanding.

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Since last Friday, 521 floor actions filed; at least 51 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. (See FULL LIST link)

Check the Senate and House daily posting sheets regarding actions taken provided here.

All committee agendas (House, Senate, Joint Legislative Budget Committee or JLBC) are posted at this link. All Floor Calendars are linked here.

Also: Standing Committees and their members are listed at this link.

2013 Session Timeline

The next deadline is Friday, March 22nd, the last day to hear Senate Bills in House Committees and the last day to hear House Bills in Senate Committees.

Senate deadlines http://www.azleg.gov/alispdfs/51leg/senate/senatedeadlines.pdf

***********************************************

Legislation

Legislative action that has taken place on some of the bills tracked by the Council on Aging is outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: you can view summaries provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA on the FULL LIST report.

H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, 3/7 from Senate Health & Human Services with do pass. Fact Sheet 3/5: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/s.2407%20hhs- jud.pdf S1090: dependent children; placement; grandparents; stipend, 3/7 from House Reform & Human Services do pass. Fact Sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1090_03-01- 13_rhs.pdf and House Appropriations: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1090_03-07- 13_approps.pdf

Hearings next week:

Monday, 3/11

H2484: veterans; hiring preference; tax credit, House Committee of the Whole; Fact Sheet 3/1 COW: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.hb2484_02-28- 12_caucuscow.pdf

Tuesday, 3/12

S1353: health insurance; telemedicine, House Insurance & Retirement at 2 pm, House Rm 3; House Summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1353 _03-08-13_ir.pdf

Wednesday, 3/6

H2355: license fees; working dogs; waiver, Senate Natural Resources & Rural Affairs

H2401: service animal; definition, Senate Commerce, Energy & Military

***********************************************

REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are all provided on the legislation tracked by the Council at the FULL LIST link provided below.

As of day 54, 1,145 bills posted, two (2) bills passed; two (2) bills signed; 70 memorials or resolutions posted and three (3) passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and are being tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report pages.

Many of the 105 bills that have been tracked by the Council on Aging since the start of this legislative session appear to be "dead," so we have established a new SHORT LIST of bills we're tracking for quick reference.

Please be advised that the presence of a bill on the Council's tracking lists does not represent support or opposition by the Council to that bill. It does mean that the bill is likely to be of interest to or have an impact on older Arizonans so the Council is tracking the bill’s progress. FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

SHORT LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=25113& listid=48764&print=true

Important to note: The web reports above provide you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about bills being tracked by the Council and are available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited as the session progresses. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times.

Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, March 11, 2013 at 1:30 p.m.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill and From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

**********************************************

Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· District maps can be found here.

***********************************************

FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

The Administration for Community Living Estimates of Sequester Impact for State Formula Grant Programs Under the Older Americans Act is linked here.

**********************************************

NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website (http://thomas.loc.gov/) and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status. Another resource

Congress.gov United States Legislative Information: http://beta.congress.gov/

Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

***********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

***********************************************

OTHER NEWS

National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll up to the top of the page.) ***********************************************

From the Administration on Aging: Protect Seniors in the Year of Elder Abuse Prevention is provided here.

***********************************************

From the March 4, 2013 ACL News & Info

Disability Characteristics of Income-Based Government Assistance Recipients in the United States: 2011

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Date: February 2013

*********************************************** From the Departments of the Treasury and Housing & Urban Development: Making Home Affordable.Gov

***********************************************

INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

WHAT: Arizona Transit Association's Annual Conference

WHEN: April 21 – 23, 2013, Tempe Buttes Marriott, Tempe AZ

For more information and to register, see this link.

***********************************************

WHAT: University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix Mini-Medical School

WHEN: April 3 – 24, 6 to 8 pm

For more information, open this link.

**********************************************

Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

***********************************************

Have a good weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for March 15, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Since last Friday, March 8th, 343 floor actions filed; at least 48 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. (See FULL LIST link)

News this week

A link to the Governor’s press release regarding Medicaid restoration is provided here. A link to the draft legislation is provided here. A hearing is scheduled in the House Appropriations Committee on 3/20 at 2 pm.

All committee agendas (House, Senate, Joint Legislative Budget Committee or JLBC) are posted at this link. All Floor Calendars are linked here. Standing Committees and their members are listed at this link.

Check the Senate and House daily posting sheets regarding actions taken provided here.

2013 Session Timeline

Friday, March 22nd is the last day to hear Senate Bills in House Committees and the last day to hear House Bills in Senate Committees.

***********************************************

Legislation

Legislative action and hearings taking place on some of the bills tracked by the Council on Aging are outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: you can view summaries provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA on the FULL LIST report provided at the link later in this issue.

S1341: vulnerable adults; financial exploitation, 3/14 from House Reform & Human Services with amendment; Fact sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1341_03-14- 13_caucuscow.pdf

Hearings next week: H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, 3/18 Senate Judiciary Committee, Senate Rm. 1

House Engrossed Version: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/bills/hb2407h.pdf

H2426: mobile dentistry, 3/20 Senate Commerce, Energy & Military 9 am, Senate Rm. 1;

House Engrossed Version: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/bills/hb2426h.pdf

H2484: veterans; hiring preference; tax credit, 3/20 Senate Finance 2 pm, Senate Rm. 3 and Senate Government & Environment, 3/21 Senate Rm. 3

House Engrossed Version: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/bills/hb2484h.pdf

S1090: dependent children; placement; grandparents; stipend, 3/20 House Appropriations, 2 pm, House Rm. 1

House Summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1090_03-01- 13_rhs.pdf

***********************************************

REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are all provided on the legislation tracked by the Council at the FULL LIST link provided below.

As of day 61, 1,145 bills posted, ten bills passed; two (2) bills signed; 70 memorials or resolutions posted and four (4) passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and are being tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report pages.

Many of the 105 bills that have been tracked by the Council on Aging since the start of this legislative session appear to be “dead,” so we have established a SHORT LIST of bills we’re tracking for quick reference.

Please be advised that the presence of a bill on the Council’s tracking lists does not represent support or opposition by the Council to that bill. It does mean that the bill is likely to be of interest to or have an impact on older Arizonans so the Council is tracking the bill’s progress.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true SHORT LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=25113& listid=48764&print=true

Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, March 18, 2013 at 1:30 p.m.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill and From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

***********************************************

Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor’s Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· District maps can be found here.

***********************************************

FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

S.448

Seniors’ Tax Simplification Act of 2013

Introduced on 3/15/2013 by Senator Marco Rubio (FL)

Intent: To allow seniors to file their Federal income tax on a new Form 1040SR.

On 3/5/2013 referred to the Senate Committee on Finance

Related bill: H.R.38 ***********************************************

S.562

Seniors Mental Health Access Improvement Act of 2013

Introduced on 3/14/2013 by Senator Ron Wyden (OR)

Referred to the Senate Committee on Finance

(Text of legislation pending)

***********************************************

In case you missed this in earlier issues:

The Administration for Community Living Estimates of Sequester Impact for State Formula Grant Programs Under the Older Americans Act is linked here. The NASUAD National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities FAQ: Sequestration and the States is linked here.

***********************************************

Legislation related to the Continuing Resolution which is set to expire 3/27

*H.R.933

Department of Defense, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013

Introduced by Representative Harold Rogers (KY-5)

3/14/2013 Considered by Senate

Related bills: H.RES.99, S.444

*U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations press release is linked here

***********************************************

NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website (http://thomas.loc.gov/) and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill

Summary & Status.

Another resource

Congress.gov United States Legislative Information: http://beta.congress.gov/ Share your opinions with members of Congress!

House members

Senate members

***********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

***********************************************

OTHER NEWS

National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll up to the top of the page for current information.)

***********************************************

From the NCOA National Council on Aging

SNAP Shots Maximizing the SNAP Medical Expense Deduction for Older Adults fact sheet is linked here. Eating Well as You Age is linked here.

***********************************************

From the Sloan Center on Aging & work at Boston College

Business Strategies for the Age-Diverse Workforce

***********************************************

From the National Institutes of Health

Health & Aging AgePage article:

Forgetfulness: Knowing When To Ask For Help

*********************************************** INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

WHAT: Arizona Geriatrics Society 6th Annual Spring Geriatric Mental Health & Aging Conference

WHEN: Wednesday, April 17th, Black Canyon Conference Center, 9440 N. 25th Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona and Wednesday, April 24th, YWCA Leadership Center, 525 N. Bonita Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85745

More information is provided here.

***********************************************

WHAT: Arizona Transit Association’s Annual Conference

WHEN: April 21 - 23, 2013, Tempe Buttes Marriott, Tempe AZ

For more information and to register, see this link.

***********************************************

WHAT: 2nd Annual Arizona Elder Law Day

WHEN: Wednesday, May 1, 2013, 9 am to 3 pm, Glencroft Retirement Community, 8611 N. 67th Avenue, Glendale, Arizona 85302

More information is provided here.

***********************************************

WHAT: Time Out Workshop "Religious Perspectives on Death, Dying, and the After Life"

WHEN: May 14, 2013, 8 am to 12:30 pm, Disability Empowerment Center, 5025 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ

More information is available here.

***********************************************

WHAT: Save the Date; 2013 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

WHEN: Friday, June 14, 2013

***********************************************

Also: Save the Date; Greater Phoenix Region Aging in Place Network Conference Connecting Care Communities event, May 14, 2013, Black Canyon Conference Center, 9440 N. 25th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ. More information available later. ***********************************************

Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

***********************************************

Look for the next issue the week of March 25th

Have a good weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for March 29, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Since the last issue, 850 floor actions filed; at least 93 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. (See FULL LIST link)

As of day 75 of the session, 1,145 bills posted, 44 passed and 24 signed.

Fiscal News

While no budget negotiations information available to share, here is the latest fiscal report from the Joint Legislative Budget Committee. JLBC Monthly Fiscal Highlights March 2013 reports "Year-to-date, revenues are 4.4% higher than last year and are $15.7 million above the Baseline forecast." A link to the report is provided at: http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/mfh-mar-13.pdf.

3/14/2013 JLBC Staff Presentations to the Appropriations Committees report is linked here.

Resources

Check the Senate and House daily posting sheets regarding actions taken posted at: http://www.azleg.gov/PostingSheets.asp.

2013 Session Timeline

Last Friday, March 22nd was the last day to hear Senate Bills in House Committees and the last day to hear House Bills in Senate Committees.

The next deadline is April 19th - the last day for Conference Committees.

***********************************************

Legislation

Legislative action and hearings taking place on some of the bills tracked by the Council on Aging are outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: you can view summaries provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA on the FULL and SHORT LIST reports provided at the links later in this issue.

HCR2035: recognizing Arizona caregivers, 3/14, unanimously adopted by both House and Senate; to Secretary of State; House Engrossed Fact Sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/bills/hcr2035h.pdf

H2407: qualified immunity; nonprofit clinics, from Senate Rules Committee, okay, 3/5 Senate Fact Sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/ summary/s.2407%20hhs-jud.pdf

S1175: vulnerable adult; duty, 3/25 passed House 58-0; ready for Senate action on House amendment, House Engrossed Fact Sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1175_03-21- 13_houseengrossed.pdf

S1286: nursing facility provider assessments, 3/27 passed House 58-0; ready for Governor, House Engrossed Fact Sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1286_03-26- 13_houseengrossed.pdf

S1341: vulnerable adults; financial exploitation, 3/28 from House Committee of the Whole (COW) with amendment, House Engrossed Fact Sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1341_03-28- 13_houseengrossed.pdf

S1353: health insurance; telemedicine, passed House 58-0; ready for Senate action on House amendments, House Engrossed Fact Sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1353_03-21- 13_houseengrossed.pdf

Hearings next week:

H2076: military applicants; licensure requirements, 4/1 Senate Consent, Senate Fact Sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/ s.2076cem-trans.pdf

Signed by the Governor on 3/28

H2147: unemployment benefits; proof; eligibility

Senate Engrossed version: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/bills/hb2147s.pdf

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REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are provided on all the legislation tracked by the Council this session at the FULL and SHORT LIST links provided below. Day 75:

1,145 bills posted, 44 bills passed; 24 bills signed; 71 memorials or resolutions posted and 7 passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and are being tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report pages.

Our FULL LIST includes all bills originally placed on the tracking list; the SHORT LIST of bills is provided for quick reference on legislation moving forward.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

SHORT LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=25113& listid=48764&print=true

Important to note: The web reports above provide you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about bills being tracked by the Council and are available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These lists will continue to be edited as the session progresses. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times.

Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until 1:30 p.m. on Monday, April 1st. (No April Fool's joke!)

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill and From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

***********************************************

Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

Updates to the last issue

H.R.933

Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013

Became Public Law No: 113-6

S.562

Seniors Mental Health Access Improvement Act of 2013

Purpose:

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security act to provide for the coverage of marriage and family therapist services and mental health counselor services under part B of the Medicare program, and for other purposes.

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H.R.803

SKILLS Act

Introduced on 2/25/2013 by Representative Virginia Foxx (NC-5), the bill has 23 cosponsors.

Supporting Knowledge and Investing in Lifelong Skills Act or SKILLS Act – Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (WIA) to revise requirements and reauthorize appropriations for:

(1) WIA title I, workforce investment systems for job training and employment services; and

(2) WIA title II, adult education and family literacy education programs.

Revises requirements to:

(1) eliminate representatives of labor organizations from state workforce investment boards, and

(2) specify that representatives of business on a board represent large and small businesses with immediate and long-term employment opportunities in in-demand industries and other occupations important to the state economy. Requires a state board to assist the state governor by developing:

(1) policies and programs that support a comprehensive statewide workforce development system, and

(2) a statewide workforce and labor market information system.

Revises requirements for:

(1) a state workforce development plan;

(2) local workforce investment areas, boards, and plans;

(3) one-stop delivery systems; and

(4) the allotment of federal funds among states for employment and training activities.

Eliminates specific funding for adult and dislocated worker employment and training. Specifies state use of federal funds to set up a Workforce Investment Fund.

Revises requirements for:

(1) within state allocations of funds; and

(2) the use of funds for state and local employment and training activities, including statewide rapid response, individuals with barriers to employment grants, and adults with barriers to employment grants.

Converts the national emergency grants program into a national dislocated worker grants program. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to award national dislocated worker grants to spouses of active duty members of the Armed Forces or full-time duty members of the National Guard (or members who recently separated from such duties) and are in need of employment and training assistance to obtain or retain employment.

Requires the Employment and Training Administration of the Department of Labor to be the principal agency to administer WIA title I workforce investment systems for job training and employment services and title III (Job Corps).

Revises requirements for the state unified plan for adult education and literacy programs.

Amends the Wagner-Peyser Act to eliminate the U.S. Employment Service. Replaces the nationwide employment statistics system, which the Secretary is required to oversee, with a nationwide workforce and labor market information system.

Repeals the Youth Conservation Corps Act of 1970 and specified other laws. Amends the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to require employment and training services to eligible members of households participating in the supplemental nutrition assistance program be provided through the statewide workforce development system, including the One-Stop delivery system.

Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) with respect to employment and training services for refugees, and the Second Chance Act of 2007 and well as the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 with respect to such services through the statewide workforce investment system for federal, state, and local prisoner reentry programs.

Amends INA also to require that 15% of importing employer fees deposited into the H-1B Nonimmigrant Petitioner Account be transferred to the Department of Education for gifted and talented grant programs (instead of 50% to job training programs).

Amends the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (RA73) to:

(1) redesignate the Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration the Director, and (2) require an eligible state to use a certain percentage of the federal share of the cost of vocational rehabilitation services to award grants to create practical job and career readiness and training programs and provide job placements and career advancement.

Repeals the authority of the Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration in the Department of Education to make grants and contracts for: (1) vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities who are migrant or seasonal farmworkers; (2) recreational programs for such individuals; and (3) in-service training of vocational rehabilitation personnel.

Repeals title VI (Employment Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities) of the RA73.

Revises requirements and reauthorizes appropriations for vocational rehabilitation services under the RA73.

On 3/18/2013, the bill was received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Related bills: H.RES.113

S.AMDT.594 amends S.CON.RES.8

Sponsor: Senator Bernard Sanders (VT) submitted 3/22/2013, proposed 3/23/2013.

AMENDMENT PURPOSE: To establish a deficit-neutral reserve fund relating to the Older Americans Act of 1965, which may include congregate and home-delivered meals programs, or other assistance to low-income seniors. 3/23/2013 Senate amendment agreed to. Status: Amendment SA 594 agreed to in Senate by Unanimous Consent.

H.R.1286

Healthy Families Act

Introduced on 3/20/13 by Representative Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-3), the bill has 94 cosponsors.

The purposes of this Act

(1) to ensure that all working Americans can address their own health needs and the health needs of their families by requiring employers to permit employees to earn up to 56 hours of paid sick time including paid time for family care;

(2) to diminish public and private health care costs by enabling workers to seek early and routine medical care for themselves and their family members;

(3) to assist employees who are, or whose family members are, victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, by providing the employees with paid time away from work to allow the victims to receive treatment and to take the necessary steps to ensure their protection;

(4) to address the historical and persistent widespread pattern of employment discrimination on the basis of gender by both private and public sector employers;

(5) to accomplish the purposes described in paragraphs (1) through (4) in a manner that is feasible for employers; and

(6) consistent with the provision of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution relating to equal protection of the laws, and pursuant to Congress' power to enforce that provision under section 5 of that Amendment--

(A) to accomplish the purposes described in paragraphs (1) through (4) in a manner that minimizes the potential for employment discrimination on the basis of sex by ensuring generally that paid sick time is available for eligible medical reasons on a gender-neutral basis; and

(B) to promote the goal of equal employment opportunity for women and men.

On 3/20/2013, H.R.1286 was referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce, House Administration, and House Oversight and Government Reform.

Related bill: S.631

NOTE: The Senate convenes again on April 8th and the House on April 9th. ***********************************************

NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website (http://thomas.loc.gov/) and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

Another resource

Congress.gov United States Legislative Information: http://beta.congress.gov/

Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

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You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

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OTHER NEWS

Connecting to Combat Alzheimer's brings together National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded Alzheimer’s Disease Centers (ADCs) that conduct research with the Administration for Community Living (ACL) aging services agencies. For more information, go to: http://www.hhs.gov/open/initiatives/hhsinnovates/round6/ connecting-to-combat-alzheimers.html.

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll up the page for current information.)

*********************************************** The Alzheimer's Association's 2013 Alzheimer's Disease Facts & Figures report was released last week and is provided at: http://www.alz.org/downloads/facts_figures_2013.pdf.

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May is Older Americans Month and Unleash the Power of Age is the theme of this 50th year celebration. Resources and information provided at this link.

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From the ACL News & Info Monday, March 25, 2013

PHI's State Data Center on the LTC Direct Care Workforce

"The online Center provides up-to-date state-level profiles of the direct-care workforce, including workers from service delivery systems for individuals of all ages with physical, developmental or intellectual disabilities, and with chronic illnesses and end-of-life care needs."

The PHI State Data Center is linked here.

From the Recent Reports section of the March 25th issue:

Medicaid Managed Care for People with Disabilities

Source: National Council on Disabilities

Date: March 2013

Economic Security Initiative Demonstration: Lessons Learned

Source: National Council on Aging

Date: March 2013

The HCBS Opportunity: Recommendations for the Commission on Long-Term Care

Source: National Senior Citizens Law Center

Date: March 2013

State Studies Find Home and Community-Based Services to Be Cost- Effective

Source: AARP Public Policy Institute

Date: March 2013 A Behavioral Weight-Loss Intervention in Persons with Serious Mental Illness

Source: The New England Journal of Medicine

Date: March 21, 2013

2013 County Health Rankings

Source: Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

Date: March 20, 2013

Overview of Current Long-Term Care Financing Options

Source: The Scan Foundation

Date: March 20, 2013

The Weinberg Caregiver Initiative

Source: Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation

Date: March 2013

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Report from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Urban Institute

Uninsured Veterans and Family Members: State and National Estimates of Expanded Medicaid Eligibility Under the ACA is provided at: http://www.rwjf.org/content/dam/farm/reports/issue_briefs/ 2013/rwjf405143 and Governor Brewer's press release related to the report is linked here.

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Mark your calendar for the next National Take-Back Initiative

April 27, 2013; more information to be posted at the DEA website.

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National Center on Senior Transportation information and resources are posted at: http://seniortransportation.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagena me=NCST2_homepage. NOTE: Be sure to see the survey at the top right corner of the homepage. NCST is asking for input on your information, technical assistance and training needs related to enhancing senior mobility/transportation services.

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The Federal Trade Commission released the Top 10 Complaint Categories for 2012 and Identity Theft Tops List for 13th Consecutive Year in Report of National Consumer Complaints. See the list here.

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April 15th is the application deadline for the 2013-2014 Class of Health and Aging Policy Fellows. For more information, go to: http://www.healthandagingpolicy.org/.

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

WHAT: Grant Writing Workshop sponsored by Northern Arizona Council of Governments

WHEN: Monday, April 8, 2013, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Cottonwood Recreation Center, 150 S. 6th St., Cottonwood, AZ

For more information, see this link.

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WHAT: A.T. Still University 9th Annual Lecture on Aging Creativity: The Critical Link in Person-Centered Care

WHEN: Friday, April 12, 2013, Arizona Campus, Saguaro A & B at 12:00 noon.

For more information, see this link or call 480-219-6077.

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WHAT: Arizona Geriatrics Society 6th Annual Spring Geriatric Mental Health & Aging Conference

WHEN: Wednesday, April 17th, Black Canyon Conference Center, 9440 N. 25th Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona and Wednesday, April 24th, YWCA Leadership Center, 525 N. Bonita Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85745

More information is provided here.

********************************************** WHAT: Arizona Transit Association's Annual Conference

WHEN: April 21 - 23, 2013, Tempe Buttes Marriott, Tempe AZ

For more information and to register, see this link.

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WHAT: 2nd Annual Arizona Elder Law Day

WHEN: Wednesday, May 1, 2013, 9 am to 3 pm, Glencroft Retirement Community, 8611 N. 67th Avenue, Glendale, Arizona 85302

More information is provided here.

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WHAT: Time Out Workshop "Religious Perspectives on Death, Dying, and the After Life"

WHEN: May 14, 2013, 8 am to 12:30 pm, Disability Empowerment Center, 5025 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ

More information is available here.

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WHAT: Save the Date; 2013 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

WHEN: Friday, June 14, 2013

Save the Date flyer provided here.

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Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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Have a good weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for April 5, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Legislative actions have slowed. Since last Friday, 176 floor actions filed; 18 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging.

As of the 82nd day of the session, no FY 2014 budget legislation available to share.

2013 Session Timeline

The next deadline is April 19th - the last day for Conference Committees, and April 23rd marks the 100th day of the session, the date for sine die adjournment unless leadership extends the deadline.

Resources

Check the Senate and House daily posting sheets regarding actions taken posted at: http://www.azleg.gov/PostingSheets.asp.

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Legislation

Legislative and administrative actions taking place on some of the bills tracked by the Council on Aging are outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: you can view summaries provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA on the FULL LIST and SHORT LIST reports provided at the links later in this issue.

Recently signed by the Governor

H2064: training permits; military health professionals

House Summary 4/1/2013: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.hb2064_04-01- 13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf H2355: license fees; working dogs; waiver

House Summary 4/3/2013: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.hb2355_04-03- 13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

H2401: service animal; definition

House Summary 4/4/2013: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.hb2401_04-03- 13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

S1102: hearing aid dispensers; audiologist

House Summary 4/1/2013: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1102_04-01- 13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

S1175: vulnerable adult; duty

House Summary 4/4/2013: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1175_04-04- 13_astransmitted.pdf

S1237: guardianships; conservatorships; transfer

House Summary 4/1/2013: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1237_04-02- 13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

S1286: nursing facility provider assessments

House Summary 4/1/2013: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1286_03-28- 2013_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

S1353: health insurance; telemedicine, Senate concurred in House amendments and passed on final reading 28-0

Senate Fact Sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/s.1353hhs _housechanges.pdf

Passed and forwarded to the Governor

S1115: direct pay prices; health care

Senate Summary 4/1/2013: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/s.1115hhs _aspassed.pdf Hearings next week

H2205: TANF; electronic benefit transfer prohibitions,

4/8 Senate Committee of the Whole COW

S1437: music therapists; licensure, 4/8 House Committee of the Whole COW

Senate Fact Sheet 4/1/2013: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/s.1437hhs- approp_aspassed.pdf

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REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are provided on all the legislation tracked by the Council this session at the FULL LIST and SHORT LIST links provided below.

Day 82:

1,145 bills posted, 88 bills passed; 70 bills signed; 1 vetoed; 71 memorials or resolutions posted and 9 passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and are being tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report pages.

Our FULL LIST link below includes all bills originally placed on the tracking list; the SHORT LIST link of bills is provided for quick reference on legislation that is moving forward.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

SHORT LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=25113& listid=48764&print=true

Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, April 8th. If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill and From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

***********************************************

Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· District maps can be found on the website linked here.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

NOTE: The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives convene this week.

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S.567

Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013

Introduced on 3/14/2013 by Senator Tom Harkin (IA)

To improve the retirement security of American families by strengthening Social Security

S.567 includes:

Determination of taxable wages and self-employment income above contribution and benefit base after 2013

Adjustments to bend points in determining primary insurance amount and inclusion of surplus earnings for benefit determinations

Consumer price index for elderly consumers

Computation of cost-of-living increases for social security benefits

On 3/14/2013, the bill was referred to Senate Committee on Finance. S.612

Social Security Number Protection Act of 2011

Introduced on 3/19/2013 by Senator Richard Durbin (IL)

To require Secretary of Health and Human Services to remove social security account numbers from Medicare identification cards and communications provided to Medicare beneficiaries in order to protect Medicare beneficiaries from identity theft.

On 3/19/2013, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Finance.

Note: With no resolution to the across the board sequester cuts, programs providing community based services for seniors are beginning to see the impact of the sequestration. The Administration for Community Living Estimates of Sequester Impact for State Formula Grant Programs Under the Older Americans Act is provided again here for your review.

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NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website (http://thomas.loc.gov/) and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

Another resource

Congress.gov United States Legislative Information: http://beta.congress.gov/

Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

***********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

*********************************************** OTHER NEWS

IRS reminds taxpayers to avoid tax scams; for more information, go to: http://www.irs.gov/uac/Newsroom/IRS-Releases-the-Dirty-Dozen- Tax-Scams-for-2013

From the National Council on Aging – NCOA

6 Tax-Time Tips for Seniors linked here.

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Issue brief (published by the NTAR Leadership Center, funded by a grant/contract from the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy)

The Aging Workforce: The Role of Medical Professionals in Helping Older Workers and Workers with Disabilities to Stay at Work or Return to Work and Remain Employed is linked here.

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U.S. National Library of Medicine NIH National Institutes of Health

Medline Plus Trusted Health Information for You resource webpage is linked here.

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U.S. Department of Health & Human Services HHS finalized the rule regarding new Medicaid beneficiaries. The press release is provided here.

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll up the page for current information.)

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National Institutes of Health

Press release: NIH-supported study finds U.S. dementia care costs as high as $215 billion in 2010; Formal and unpaid dementia care costs are tallied is linked here.

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From AARP Public Policy Institute Two-Thirds of States Integrating Medicare and Medicaid Services for Dual Eligibles report is linked here.

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National Council on Aging - NCOA Top 10 Money Saving Tips for Seniors

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May is Older Americans Month and Unleash the Power of Age is the theme of this 50th year celebration. Resources and information provided at this link.

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From ACL News & Info Monday, April 1, 2013

2013 Retirement Confidence Survey: Perceived Savings Needs Outpace Reality for Many

Source: Employee Benefit Research Institute

Date: March 2013

National Volunteer Week (April 21-28)

Theme: "Celebrate Service"

Resources: Aging Network Volunteer Collaborative; Points of Light

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Mark your calendar for the next National Take-Back Initiative

April 27, 2013; more information is now posted at the DEA website.

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

From the April 2013 Community Connect newsletter

CommunityCalendar

April 20th is HopeFest Phoenix at Chase Field. More than 140 community and government agencies will provide services to low-income individuals and families. All the details are found at www.cityserveaz.com.

*********************************************** WHAT: A.T. Still University 9th Annual Lecture on Aging Creativity: The Critical Link in Person-Centered Care

WHEN: Friday, April 12, 2013, Arizona Campus, Saguaro A & B at 12:00 noon

For more information, see this link or call 480-219-6077

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WHAT: 2nd Annual Arizona Elder Law Day

WHEN: Wednesday, May 1, 2013, 9 am to 3 pm, Glencroft Retirement Community, 8611 N. 67th Avenue, Glendale, Arizona 85302

More information is provided here.

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WHAT: Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium Public Conference

WHEN: Friday, May 24, 2013, 8 am to 12:00 noon, Rio Vista Recreation Center, 8866 W. Thunderbird Road, Peoria, AZ 85381

To register, go to: http://www.azalz.org/Events/The-2013-Arizona- Alzheimers-Public.aspx.

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WHAT: Save the Date; 2013 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

WHEN: Friday, June 14, 2013

Save the Date flyer provided here.

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Resources in Yavapai County listed in the current issue of By the Seat of Our Pants - Stewart Communications

CONFIDENT LIVING WITH VISION LOSS is a free, community-based education series for adults. All classes occur on Thursdays from 10 a.m. - noon. Class 1, April 4 - Understanding Medical Conditions of the Eye & Current Research and Treatment. Class 2, April 11 - Overview of the Emotional Impact of Vision Loss & Making Decisions With Life Changes. Class 3, April 18 - Assistive Devices to Maximize Independence. Class 4, April 25 - Orientation and Mobility & Guide Dogs of the Desert. Class 5, May 2 - Low Vision Optometry and Low Vision Aids & Talking Book Library. Class 6, May 9 - Diet and Your Vision & The Function of Vitamins. This free series is sponsored by People Who Care with support from the Quad-City Lions Clubs. All Classes will be held in the Douglas Room at the Prescott United Methodist Church, 505 W. Gurley Street, Prescott 86301. Registration is required & seating is limited: call People Who Care at 445-2480. If you no longer drive and need help with getting to the location, call People Who Care.

U.S.VETS-Prescott provides housing and supportive services to homeless and at-risk veterans. They are proud to announce an expansion to their permanent housing program, which includes eight 1-bedroom apartments for single veterans and three 2-bedroom apartments for veteran families. They are now accepting applications for these units. Rent based on 30% of household income. If interested, call Joe Gatens at (928) 445-4860 ext. 5906.

ALSO: Caregiver resources can be found in the Caregiver Connection found at this link.

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Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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Note: look for the next issue to be emailed the week of April 19th. Have a good weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for April 19, 2013

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

Since Friday, April 5th, 344 floor actions filed; 44 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. No budget legislation to report on, yet.

2013 Session Timeline

Today, April 19th is the last day for Conference Committees, and April 23rd marks the 100th day of the session, the date for sine die adjournment unless leadership extends the deadline.

Fiscal News

Joint Legislative Budget Committee

JLBC Monthly Fiscal Report April 2013

"Year-to-date, base revenues are 3.8% higher than last year. In total, year-to- date General Fund collections are $27.5 million above the January Baseline forecast." The report is linked here: : http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/mfh- apr-13.pdf The JLBC Tracking Arizona's Recovery April 2013 report is linked here: http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/TrackingAZRecovery0413.pdf

Resources

All committee agendas (House, Senate, or JLBC) are posted at this link. All Floor Calendars are linked here. Standing Committees and their members are listed at this link.

You can check the Senate and House daily posting sheets regarding actions taken at: http://www.azleg.gov/PostingSheets.asp.

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Legislation

Legislative and administrative actions taking place on bills tracked by the Council on Aging are outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: you can view summaries provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA on the FULL LIST and SHORT LIST reports provided at the links later in this issue.

Recently signed by the Governor

H2076: military applicants; license requirements

Chaptered version of the bill: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/laws/0085.pdf

H2143: joint tenancy severance

House summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary /h.hb2143_04-15-13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

S1105: occupational therapy board

House summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/ h.sb1105_04-01-13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

S1170: ASRS; amendments

House summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/ h.sb1170_04-17-13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

S1408: fingerprint clearance cards; adoption checks

House engrossed summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1408_04-11- 13_houseengrossed.pdf

H2154: supplemental appropriation; mortgage settlement monies

House summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/ h.hb2154_04-15-13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

Recently vetoed by the Governor

S1115: direct pay prices; health care

House summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/ h.sb1115_04-01-13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

Governor's veto letter: http://azgovernor.gov/dms/upload/PR_041213_SB1115Veto.pdf

Passed and forwarded to the Governor

S1023: optometry board; continuation

House summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/ h.sb1023_04-16-13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

Recent actions taken

H2513: dentistry, 4/16 passed Senate 29-1; ready for House action on Senate amendments

House summary concur/refuse memo: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.hb2513_ concurrefusememo.pdf

Hearing next week

S1090: dependent children; placement; grandparents; stipend, 4/22 House Committee of the Whole (COW)

Senate engrossed version: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/bills/sb1090s.pdf

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REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are provided on all the legislation tracked by the Council this session at the FULL LIST and SHORT LIST links provided below.

Day 96:

1,145 bills posted, 157 bills passed; 125 bills signed; 6 vetoed; 72 memorials or resolutions posted and 15 passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and are being tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report pages.

Our FULL LIST link below includes all bills originally placed on the tracking list; the SHORT LIST link of bills is provided for quick reference on legislation that is moving forward.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

SHORT LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=25113& listid=48764&print=true

Important to note: The web reports above provide you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about bills being tracked by the Council and are available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited as the session continues. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times.

Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Monday, April 22nd.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill or From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

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Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· Or contacting your legislator from your area. Locate your legislator by going to the Arizona State Legislature website and looking for: How do I find My Legislators or by following the instructions provided at both the Senate and House Member links at the website.

· Not sure about your district? District maps can be found on the website linked here.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

Update on H.R.861 (see March 1st Legislative Update)

Elder Abuse Victims Act of 2013

On 4/8/2013, the bill was referred to the House Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.

Other legislation related to older Americans:

H.R.1585 To require the establishment of a Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers to compute cost-of-living increases for Social Security benefits under title II of the Social Security Act and to provide, in the case of elderly beneficiaries under such title, for an annual cost-of-living increase which is not less than 3 percent.

Introduced on 4/16/2013 by Representative Eliot L. Engel (NY-16)

On 4/16/2013, it was referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Committee on Education and the Workforce.

All federal legislation:

Information on active federal legislation can be viewed at the Congress.gov website or at the U.S. Senate's website page.

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Budget information

The President's budget was released on April 10th and can be accessed at the GPO linked here.

House of Representative Committee on the Budget plan is linked here.

Senate Budget Committee’s plan is linked here.

From Kaiser Health News

Group Offers Budget Plan With $560 Billion in Health Care Savings is posted at: http://capsules.kaiserhealthnews.org/index.php/2013/04/ bipartisan-center-offers-plan-to-reduce-health-spending/

Five Ways the President's Budget Would Change Medicare is linked here.

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NOTE: If you want information specific to a bill, go to the Thomas website (http://thomas.loc.gov/) and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status or check Congress.gov United States Legislative Information at: http://beta.congress.gov/.

Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members Senate members

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You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

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OTHER NEWS

From the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services HHS

Administration for Community Living or ACL celebrated a one-year anniversary on April 16th. For the latest news and information, go to: http://www.acl.gov/.

Also: the Million Hearts Initiative around heart attacks and strokes is posted at: http://millionhearts.hhs.gov/about_hd.html.

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From the National Center on Senior Transportation NCST

CarFit national education program is linked here.

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Sloan Center on Aging & Work at Boston College

Aging Today: Family Caregiving & The Older Worker

Link to the fact sheet is provided here.

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From the National Council on Aging

NCOA has launched JobSource, "a new online portal to help older adults define their skills, get training, and find a job. The site includes a Job Match System, 32 free training courses, and a Job Search tool." To visit the site, go to: http://ncoajobsource.org/.

Also: NCOA Aging Program Funding Sheet is posted here. ***********************************************

Weaving It Together: A Tapestry of Transportation Funding for Older Adults from the AARP Public Policy Institute is linked here.

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From the National Association of States United for Aging & Disabilities NASUAD

Volunteers Matter: Excellence in Volunteer Service Award

"This initiative is designed to highlight successful state-run programs that are leading the way in the creative use of volunteers in the long-term services and supports network. The award is open to programs that help older adults and persons with disabilities in the long-term services and supports system. Programs must be statewide in scope and operation. Winning programs will demonstrate innovations in one or more of the following:

· Promoting intergenerational interaction

· Incorporating Baby Boomers as volunteers

· Including Veterans as volunteers or recipients

· Creative strategies for recruitment and retention of volunteers of varying backgrounds, ages and abilities"

Submission of information can be made here.

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll up the page for current information.)

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May is Older Americans Month and Unleash the Power of Age is the theme of this 50th year celebration. Resources and information provided at this link.

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Every Body WALK! is a campaign aimed at getting Americans up and moving and is working to spread the message that walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week really can improve your overall health and prevent disease. The program provides news and resources on walking, health information, walking maps, how to find walking groups, a personal pledge form to start walking, as well as a place to share stories about individual experiences with walking. For more information, go to: http://www.everybodywalk.org/.

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From ACL News & Info Monday, April 15, 2013 Identity thieves claiming other people’s refunds rose more than 650% between 2008 and 2012, and older adults are among the most frequent targets. Last week, the US Senate Special Committee on Aging held a hearing to discuss this scam’s impact on seniors and federal legislation has been filed to increase penalties to act as a deterrent.

Older adults are particularly at risk because one of the sources that thieves use to obtain social security numbers are records kept by nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and companies servicing Medicaid programs. Information can be stolen by unscrupulous employees or found by prying eyes. Elderly individuals are also specifically targeted by tax thieves because many of them are not required to file a tax return. As a result, they are often unaware that fraudulent returns have been filed under their name. Similarly, the Internal Revenue Service usually doesn’t realize a fraudulent return has been filed unless a return from the legitimate taxpayer is filed, resulting in a duplicate filing.

These resources can help your clients avoid becoming a victim of tax-related identify theft.

NCLC’s tips for older consumers to avoid identity theft

IRS identity protection tips

Federal Trade Commission’s steps for repairing tax-related identify theft

Free case consultation for elder advocates is provided by the National Senior Citizens Law Center and NCLC through the National Legal Resource Center”.

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From the Federal Trade Commission

Stopping Unsolicited Mail, Phone Calls and Email is posted at: http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0262-stopping-unsolicited- mail-phone-calls-and-email.

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National Take-Back Initiative

April 27, 2013; information is posted at the DEA website. ***********************************************

INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

Arizona Attorney General 2013 "Why Should I Care About Elder Abuse?" Junior High School Arts Competition: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/arizona-attorney-general -tom-horne-announces-contest-raise-awareness-elder-abuse

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WHAT: Arizona Senior Center Association 2013 Annual Conference; Fantastic and Fit After Fifty

WHEN: Monday and Tuesday, July 15th and 16th, Prescott Resort and Conference Center, 1500 State Route 69, Prescott AZ 86301

Education Session Proposal Deadline April 26, 2013

For the proposal application, see this link.

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WHAT: Hospice of the Valley Understanding the Journey of Dementia

WHEN: Saturday, April 27 2013, St. Patrick Catholic Community, 10815 N. 84th Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

More information is provided here.

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WHAT: 2nd Annual Arizona Elder Law Day

WHEN: Wednesday, May 1, 2013, 9 am to 3 pm, Glencroft Retirement Community, 8611 N. 67th Avenue, Glendale, Arizona 85302

More information is provided here.

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WHAT: Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium Public Conference

WHEN: Friday, May 24, 2013, 8 am to 12:00 noon, Rio Vista Recreation Center, 8866 W. Thunderbird Road, Peoria, AZ 85381

To register, go to: http://www.azalz.org/Events/The-2013-Arizona -Alzheimers-Public.aspx ***********************************************

Creating Caring Communities; NACOG AAA 22nd Annual Conference

2013 Call for Presentations is linked here.

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Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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Have a good weekend! ~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for April 26, 2013

This issue is brief; not a lot to report on this week.

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

The legislative session has passed the 100th day deadline without sine die adjournment. The budget, Medicaid expansion and tax reform are still pending.

Since last Friday, just 94 floor actions filed; 15 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging.

2013 Session Timeline

Tuesday, April 23rd marked the 100th day of the session; leadership extended the session.

Fiscal News

Joint Legislative Budget Committee updated their April Baseline Cost Estimates for AHCCCS and DHS. The report can be viewed at: http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/april2013baselinecostestimates.pdf.

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Legislation

Legislative and administrative actions taking place on any remaining bills tracked by the Council on Aging are outlined here with fact sheets or summaries from the Arizona State Legislature, when available. Note: you can view summaries provided by Arizona Capitol Reports-LOLA on the FULL LIST and SHORT LIST reports provided at the links later in this issue.

Passed and forwarded to the Governor

H2272: burial duties; designated person

House Summary 4/24: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.hb2272_04-23- 13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf H2513: dentistry

Senate Fact sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/s.2513hhs-cem _aspassed.pdf

S1437: music therapy; licensure

House Engrossed final version: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/bills/sb1437h.pdf

Hearings next week

H2045: health care; direct pay; ahcccs rate, 4/30 House room 5

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REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are provided on all the legislation tracked by the Council this session at the FULL LIST and SHORT LIST links provided below.

Day 103:

1,147 bills posted, 189 bills passed; 125 bills signed; 6 vetoed; 73 memorials or resolutions posted and 16 passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and are being tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report pages.

Our FULL LIST link below includes all bills originally placed on the tracking list; the SHORT LIST link of bills is provided for quick reference on legislation that is moving forward.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

SHORT LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=25113& listid=48764&print=true

Important to note: The web reports above provide you with the current status and upcoming hearing information about bills being tracked by the Council and are available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited as the session continues. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times. Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Tuesday, April 29th reflecting the change to three-day work weeks.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill or From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

***********************************************

Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor’s Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· Not sure about your district? District maps can be found on the website linked here.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

H.R.1507

Health Outcomes, Planning, and Education for Alzheimer's Act

Introduced on 4/11/2013 by Representative Edward J. Markey (MA-5); the bill has 37 cosponsors.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to increase diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, leading to better care and outcomes for Americans living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

On 4/11/2013, the bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, Committee on Ways and Means.

H.R.1714 To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish a grant pilot program to provide housing to elderly homeless veterans.

H.R. 1714 was introduced on 4/24/2013 by Representative Scott H. Peters (CA-52)

On 4/24/2013, the bill was referred to the Committees on Financial Services and Veterans' Affairs. Also in the news:

S.744

Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act

Introduced on 4/16/2013 by senator Charles E. Schumer (NY) with seven cosponsors

On 4/23/2013, Committee on the Judiciary, hearings held.

Related Bills: H.R.490, S.223, S616

Check on active legislation at: http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/legislative/b_three_sections_wit h_teasers/active_leg_page.htm.

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In case you missed it

The President's budget was released on April 10th and can be accessed at the GPO linked here.

House of Representative Committee on the Budget plan is linked here.

Senate Budget Committee’s plan is linked here.

From Kaiser Health News

Group Offers Budget Plan With $560 Billion in Health Care Savings is posted at: http://capsules.kaiserhealthnews.org/index.php/2013/04/bipartisan -center-offers-plan-to-reduce-health-spending/

Five Ways the President's Budget Would Change Medicare is linked here.

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Share your opinions with members of Congress! If you are interested in sharing your thoughts or concerns, find out how to contact your congressional representatives by visiting: http://www.house.gov/ for the House or http://www.senate.gov/ for the Senate.

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

***********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

***********************************************

OTHER NEWS

From Kaiser Health News

"Tracking Poll finds that a majority of Americans are unsure how the law will impact them, and few are paying attention to the details of state‐level decisions about implementation." http://www.kff.org/kaiserpolls/upload/8425-F.pdf

Also Seniors Get Hung Up in Health Care Scams is posted at: http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2013/April/22/insurance- scams.aspx

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From the National Eye Institute & National Institutes of Health

May is National Healthy Vision Month http://www.nei.nih.gov/hvm/

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From the National Council on Aging

Reverse mortgage consumer information in English and Spanish

Reverse mortgage counseling information is linked here. ***********************************************

Weaving It Together: A Tapestry of Transportation Funding for Older Adults from the AARP Public Policy Institute is linked here.

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From the National Association of States United for Aging & Disabilities NASUAD Friday Updates April 26, 2013

Two-Part Webinar Series on Expanding Oral Health Access for Older Adults

Expanding Oral Health Access for Older Adults is a Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) initiative involving the Administration for Community Living/Administration on Aging, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, HHS Health Resources Service Administration, and the HHS Office of Women's Health. Older Adults and Oral Health: Inspiring Community-Based Partnerships for Healthy Mouths is the topic of the first of two webinars to be sponsored by this initiative.

The goal of this webinar is to describe the oral health status of older adults in the U.S., provide useful resources and highlight two innovative community approaches to improving oral health access for older adults.

Date: Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Time: 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. EST

Click here to register for the online event.

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll up the page for current information.)

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May is Older Americans Month and Unleash the Power of Age is the theme of this 50th year celebration. Resources and information provided at this link.

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From ACL News & Info Monday, April 22, 2013

A Profile of Older Americans 2012 is now available online and provided here. ***********************************************

INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month

WHAT: FREE Hearing Health Fair

WHEN: Tuesday, May 21st, 10 am to 2 pm, 100 N.15th Avenue, Phoenix AZ

More information is provided here.

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WHAT: Alzheimer's Education Session; Know the 10 Signs

WHEN: Wednesday, May 22, 2 pm to 4 pm, Arizona Commission for the Deaf & the Hard of Hearing Conference Room, 100 N. 15th Avenue, Suite 104, Phoenix AZ

No Charge; registration is required. For more information, click here.

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WHAT: 40th Annual Arizona Rural Health Conference; The Evolution of Rural Health

WHEN: August 20th and 21st, 2013, Prescott AZ

For more information, open this link.

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Creating Caring Communities; NACOG AAA 22nd Annual Conference

2013 Call for Presentations is linked here.

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From the Arizona Coalition for Military Families

Military/Veteran Resource Network: http://militaryveteranresourcenetwork.org/

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Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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Have a good weekend!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for May 3, 2013

Due to Council on Aging meetings, an abbreviated version is offered today.

First Regular Session of the 51st Legislature

The legislative session is at Day 110; since last Friday, 118 floor actions filed; 11 of those related to legislation tracked by the Council on Aging. The watch continues for budget bills.

Other News

Joint Legislative Budget Committee updated April Baseline Cost Estimates for AHCCCS and DHS can be viewed at: http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/april2013baselinecostestimates.pdf.

Supplementary Medicaid Baseline Information http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/supplementarymedicaidbaseline information.pdf

While discussions continue on Medicaid expansion, advocates announced a Medicaid Restoration Coalition Rally on Wednesday, May 15th at 11 am, House Lawn, Arizona State Capitol.

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Legislation

Signed by the Governor

H2272: burial duties; designated person

House Summary 4/24: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.hb2272_04-23- 13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf H2513: dentistry

Senate Fact sheet: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/s.2513hhs-cem _aspassed.pdf

S1341 vulnerable adults; financial exploitation

House Summary: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/1r/summary/h.sb1341_04-30- 13_astransmittedtogovernor.pdf

Vetoed

S1437: music therapy; licensure

Governor's letter regarding the veto: http://azgovernor.gov/dms/upload/PR_043013_SB1437VetoLtr.pdf

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REMINDER: Bill summaries, actions, hearings and other information are provided on all the legislation tracked by the Council this session at the FULL LIST and SHORT LIST links provided below.

Day 110:

1,147 bills posted, 219 bills passed; 186 bills signed; 11 vetoed; 75 memorials or resolutions posted and 16 passed. Some of these bills may be of interest to Arizona seniors and are being tracked by the Council and appear on the Legislative Update web report pages.

Our FULL LIST link below includes all bills originally placed on the tracking list; the SHORT LIST link of bills is provided for quick reference on legislation that is moving forward.

FULL LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=24960& listid=47124&print=true

SHORT LIST: http://www.azcapitolreports.com/webreport.cfm?webreport=25113& listid=48764&print=true

Important to note: The web reports above provide you with the current status about bills being tracked by the Council and are available and updated on an ongoing basis, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This list will continue to be edited as the session continues. Information about bill status, hearing, etc. is a purchased service provided by the Arizona Capitol Times.

Both the Senate and the House are adjourned at this time until Tuesday, May 7, 2013.

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill or From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona linked here.

***********************************************

Share your thoughts! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor’s Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· Not sure about your district? District maps can be found on the website linked here.

***********************************************

FEDERAL OVERVIEW:

State work period during this week; Congress convenes on Monday, May 6, 2013.

Check on active legislation at: http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/legislative/b_three_sections _with_teasers/active_leg_page.htm.

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Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

***********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

***********************************************

OTHER NEWS

From the Administration for Community Living

FY 2014 Budget Statement is provided here.

FY 2014 ACL Budget page of documents is available here.

ALSO:

From ACL News & Information, Monday, April 29, 2013

Retirement and Medical Benefits: Who Has Both?

Source: Bureau of labor Statistics

Date: April 2013

INSURING the FUTURE: Current Trends in Health Coverage and the Effects of Implementing the Affordable Care Act

Source: Commonwealth Fund

Date: April 2013

Assessing the Effects of the Economy on the Recent Slowdown in Health Spending

Source: Kaiser Family Foundation

Date: April 2013 Fostering Independence, Participation, and Healthy Aging Through Technology:

Workshop (Summary Only)

Source: National Academy of Sciences

Date: April 2013

From HHS

Translating Veterans Medical Skills into Nursing Careers press release is provided here.

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The Associated Press - NORC Center for Public Affairs Research at the University of Chicago

April 24, 2013 Long Term Care Perceptions, Experience, and Attitudes of Americans 40 or Older is linked here.

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Kaiser Health News

Advocates Head to Court to Overturn Medicare Rules for Observation Care is linked here.

In case you missed it

Seniors Get Hung Up in Health Care Scams is posted at: http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2013/April/22/insurance- scams.aspx

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From the National Eye Institute & National Institutes of Health

May is National Healthy Vision Month http://www.nei.nih.gov/hvm/

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From the National Council on Aging

Better Choices, Better Health is provided here.

*********************************************** From the National Association of States United for Aging & Disabilities NASUAD Friday Updates May 3, 2013

HHS Issues SSBG Allocations to Reflect the Sequester

The Office of Community Services within The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) within HHS updated the third and fourth quarter FY13 allocations of the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) funds to reflect sequestration. While the automatic spending cuts reduce SSBG funding for all of FY13 from $1.7 billion to $1.613 billion, because the first two FY13 SSBG quarterly allocations were issued before sequestration took effect, the full cut must be absorbed in the second half of the fiscal year. As a result, downward adjustments of approximately 10 percent will have to be made in the third and fourth quarter allocations.

To download the revised allocations, please follow this link.

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease

The latest information is posted at this link. (Be sure to scroll up the page for current information.)

U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging April 24, 2013 hearing on the National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease is linked here.

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From the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Avoiding Fraud

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

In case you missed it

Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System AHCCCS Medicaid Moving Forward webpage that outlines updates to Medicaid programs is provided here.

*********************************************** Planning ahead for the next session

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill or From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona provided here.

***********************************************

Share your thoughts at any time! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your Legislator, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

 Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll- free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)  or contacting your legislator from your area. You can locate your legislator by going to the Arizona State Legislature website and looking for: How do I find My Legislators or by following the instructions provided at both the Senate and House Member links at www.azleg.gov.

Not sure about your district? District maps can be found on the website linked here.

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Did you know?

The Arizona Legislative Council

 Prepare all bills, memorials and resolutions and numerous amendments for consideration during each legislative session.  Review every law passed by the Legislature, make clerical corrections and draft explanatory notes where appropriate before delivering the office a version of the laws for publication.  Perform legal and other research at the request of legislators.  Publish annual editions of the following reports: Arizona Legislative Bill Drafting Manual, the Annual Report on Defects in the Arizona Revised Statutes and State Constitution and the Digest of Laws.  Perform the enrolling and engrossing bills, memorials and resolutions.  Provide computer support for the House of Representatives, the Senate and the Joint Legislative Budget Committee.  Maintain an Internet site for the Legislature. The site provides a variety of detailed information regarding the content and status of bills and the activities of legislative committees.  Provide management and other support services for various legislative buildings and properties.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW: The U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations FY2014 summary is provided in the July 11, 2013 press release linked here.

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S.6 Putting Our Veterans Back to Work Act of 2013 Introduced on 1/22/2013 by Senator Harry Reid (NV)

Putting Our Veterans Back to Work Act of 2013 - Amends the:

(1) VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011 to extend through March 31, 2016, the veterans retraining assistance program; and

(2) Wounded Warrior Act to extend through 2016 the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) (Secretary) to provide the same rehabilitation and vocational benefits to members of the Armed Forces (members) with severe injuries or illnesses as are provided to veterans.

Extends through:

(1) March 31, 2016, additional VA rehabilitation programs for certain disabled veterans who have completed a VA rehabilitation program and have exhausted their rights to state unemployment benefits; and

(2) FY2015 the collaborative veterans' training, mentoring, and placement program.

Directs the Secretary to develop a single, unified federal web-based employment portal for veterans to access information on federal programs and activities concerning veterans employment, unemployment benefits, and training.

Directs the:

(1) Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to award grants to hire veterans as firefighters, and

(2) Attorney General (AG) to award grants to hire veterans as law enforcement officers.

Requires the head of each executive and defense agency to consider favorably, as an evaluation factor in federal solicitations for contracts and task or delivery orders valued at or above $25 million, the employment by a prospective contractor of veterans constituting at least 5% of the contractor's workforce.

Allows a veteran on whose behalf a complaint of a violation of employment or reemployment rights under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) is made by the AG to intervene in such action, and to obtain appropriate relief. Requires the AG, within 60 days after receiving a referral of an unsuccessful attempt to resolve a complaint relating to a state or private employer, to notify the person on whose behalf the complaint is submitted of either the decision to commence such an action or of when such decision is expected to be made. Requires, in the latter case, such decision to be made within an additional 30 days. Requires the AG to commence such an action when there is reasonable cause to believe that a state or private employer is engaged in a pattern or practice of resistance to the full enjoyment of such rights and benefits, and that the pattern or practice denies the full exercise of such rights and benefits.

Authorizes the suspension, termination, or debarment of federal contractors for repeated failures or refusals to comply with USERRA protections.

Provides the Special Counsel with subpoena power to require the attendance and testimony of, and production of documents from, federal employees, to be enforced through the Merit Systems Protection Board.

Authorizes the AG, in employment or reemployment rights investigations, to issue and serve a civil investigative demand for the production of documentary material.

Update: On 7/24/2013, Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans' Affairs. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.

S.287 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the definition of homeless veteran for purposes of benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Introduced on 2/12/2013 by Senator Mark Begich (AK)

Includes as a homeless veteran, for purposes of eligibility for benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), a veteran or veteran's family fleeing domestic or dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or other dangerous or life-threatening conditions in the current housing situation, including where the health and safety of children are jeopardized, there is no other residence, and there is a lack of resources or support networks to obtain other permanent housing.

On 7/24/2013, Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans' Affairs. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.

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Recent legislation from Thomas (with text still pending)

S.1356 A bill to amend the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to strengthen the United States workforce development system through innovation in, and alignment and improvement of, employment, training, and education programs in the United States, and to promote individual and national economic growth, and for other purposes. Introduced on 7/24/2013 by Senator Patty Murray (WA)

On 7/24/2013, the bill was referred to Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

S.1358 A bill to establish an advisory office within the Bureau of Consumer Protection of the Federal Trade Commission to prevent fraud targeting seniors, and for other purposes. Introduced on 7/24/2013 by Senator Amy Klobuchar (MN)

Text of legislation pending.

On 7/24/2013, bill was referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

S.1361 A bill to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes. Introduced on 7/24/2013 by Senator Christopher S. Murphy.

Text of legislation pending.

On 7/24/2013, bill was referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

H.R.2753 Securing Care for Seniors Act of 2013 Introduced on 7/19/2013 by Representative Diane Black (TN-6)

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to improve Medicare Advantage, and for other purposes.

On 7/19/2013, the bill was referred to House Committee on Ways and Means, and Committee on Energy and Commerce.

H.R.2826 To amend title III of the Social Security Act to prevent the payment of unemployment benefits to incarcerated individuals. Introduced on 7/25/2013 by Representative David G. Reichert (WA-8)

Text of legislation pending.

On 7/25/2013, the bill was referred to House Committee on Ways and Means.

H.R.2827 To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to allow for fair application of the exceptions process for drugs in tiers in formularies in prescription drug plans under Medicare part D. Introduced on 7/25/2013 by Representative Henry C. "Hank" Johnson, Jr. (GA- 4) Text of legislation pending.

On 7/25/2013, the bill was referred to House Committee on Energy and Commerce and Committee on Ways and Means.

H.R.2828 To amend titles XI and XVIII of the Social Security Act to prevent fraud and abuse under the Medicare program and to require National Provider Identifiers for reimbursement of prescriptions under part D of the Medicare program, and for other purposes. Introduced on 7/25/2013 by Representative Gus M. Bilirakis (FL-12)

Text of legislation pending.

On 7/25/2013, the bill was referred to House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Committee on Ways and Means.

H.R.2843 To amend title XI of the Social Security Act to provide for the public availability of Medicare claims data. Introduced on 7/25/2013 by Representative James F. Sensenbrenner, Jr. (WI- 5)

Text of legislation pending.

On 7/25/2013, the bill was referred to House Committee on Ways and Means, and Committee on Energy and Commerce.

S.J.RES.20 A joint resolution proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States. Introduced on 7/11/2013 by Senator Mark Udall (CO)

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits total outlays for a fiscal year (except those for repayment of debt principal) from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year (except those derived from borrowing) unless Congress, by a three- fifths roll call vote of each chamber, authorizes a specific excess of outlays over receipts.

Excludes receipts (including attributable interest) and outlays of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund, or either of their successor funds, from consideration as receipts or outlays for purposes of this Amendment.

Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually.

Authorizes waivers of these provisions when a declaration of war is in effect or under other specified circumstances involving military conflict. Prohibits Congress from passing any bill that provides a net reduction in individual income taxes for those with incomes over $1 million (as may be adjusted by Congress to account for inflation) if, after enactment, total outlays would exceed total receipts in any fiscal year affected by the bill.

Prohibits a federal or state court from ordering any reduction in the Social Security benefits authorized by law, including any benefits provided from the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund, or either of their successor funds.

On 7/11/2013, referred to Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

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NOTE: Congress is in recess during August - a good time to visit with your Senators and Representatives at the local level.

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ALSO: If you want to check on the status of any of these bills or others, go to the Thomas website (http://thomas.loc.gov/) and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

You can also conduct a bill search and review at: http://beta.congress.gov/.

See active federal legislation at: http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/legislative/b _three_sections_with_teasers/active_leg_page.htm.

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Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

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You can contact the White House at this link.

ALSO: A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml. ***********************************************

NEWS & RESOURCES

From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC The State of Health & Aging in America 2013 report is provided here.

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Taken from the ACL News & Information, Monday, July 22, 2013 Long-Term Care Commission

The 15-member Long-Term Care Commission (LTC) heard recommendations regarding "Populations in Need of LTSS and Service Delivery Issues" and worker issues. Experts from various medical facilities, universities and research centers spoke.

The committee is expected to make recommendations to Congress by the end of September and is now seeking input from LTC providers. Providers can submit a comment abstract, which is a one-to-two page (double-spaced) overview of a provider's major points or a description of his or her proposal. Another option is to submit a single attachment, which can be more detailed and any length.

Proposals should be entered as a Word document or PDF and attached in an email to [email protected]. New Resource from NIA to Detect Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults Clinicians and researchers now have a new and simple way to find appropriate instruments to evaluate the cognitive status of older patients in the primary care setting. The Instruments to Detect Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults Database from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) at the National Institutes of Health contains detailed information about more than 100 published instruments for detecting Alzheimer's disease and other types of cognitive impairment.

Each instrument in the database was developed as a cognitive assessment for age-related dementia and has had at least three published studies using the instrument since its debut and at least one publication in the last 10 years.

Users can search the database by specific criteria, such as time to administer the instrument, the administrator's level of expertise, cost, and target diagnosis. They can also find instruments that have been evaluated in specific populations and translated into languages other than English. Each instrument is summarized, with references cited and linked for easy access.

Administration on Aging Performance Outcome Measurement Project Webpage The Administration on Aging’s Performance Outcome Measurement Project (POMP) webpage is now available. With the POMP webpage, we aim to increase public awareness of the information and tools necessary to conduct performance-related surveys, as well as promote the results of POMP projects over time.

From the ACL News & Information, Monday, July 15, 2013 Final Report from the Process Evaluation for the CDSME Program The final report for the Chronic Disease Self Management Education Program (CDSME) Process Evaluation is now available. This evaluation examined state CDSME programs funded through the "Communities Putting Prevention to Work: Chronic Disease Self-Management Program," an initiative of the Administration for Community Living/Administration on Aging (AoA) in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The report and its appendices are available on the AoA website. New AHRQ Guide Helps Hospitals Engage Patients and Families in Health Care A new online resource from the Department of Health and Human Services' Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) gives hospitals four evidence-based strategies to engage patients and families in their care. The field-tested strategies in Guide to Patient and Family Engagement in Hospital Safety and Quality can help hospitals improve both care and safety by bridging the communication gaps among patients and families and their health care providers.

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From USA.gov Prevent and Report Identify Theft information is linked here.

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From the Alzheimer's Association and the CDC The Healthy Brain Initiative is provided at http://www.alz.org/publichealth/2013-report/index.html#/0

National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease: 2013 Update http://aspe.hhs.gov/daltcp/napa/NatlPlan2013.shtml

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From the U.S. Government Accountability Office, GAO Report: Elder Justice: More Federal Coordination and Public Awareness Needed is available at: http://gao.gov/products/GAO-13-498

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From the National Council on Aging NCOA Falls Free® Initiative free webinar on August 22nd to get ready for Falls Prevention Awareness Day, September 22, 2013. For more information and to register, see this link.

*********************************************** From Community AGEnda: Improving America for All Ages, an initiative of Grantmakers In Aging Age-Friendly Communities: An Introduction for Private & Public Funders http://www.giaging.org/documents/130402_GIA_AFC_Primer.pdf

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From Kaiser Health News Medicare Announces Plan To Accelerate Linking Doctor Pay to Quality is linked here. IOM Finds Differences In Regional Health Spending Are Linked To Post-Hospital Care And Provider Prices is linked here.

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From the National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities NASUAD Friday Updates July 19, 2013 At the Crossroads: Providing Long-Term Services and Supports at a Time of High Demand and Fiscal Restraint

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From The Sloan Center on Aging & Work at Boston College AGEnda Aging & Work Blog: The Best Life; Challenges of An Aging Workforce

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From AARP Staying Ahead of the Curve 2013: AARP Multicultural Work & Career Study Perceptions of Age Discrimination in the Workplace - Ages 45-74 is linked here.

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From the U.S. Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration toolkit developed in cooperation with the Social Security Administration and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to help workers understand important decisions related to employment-based plans, Social Security and Medicare is provided at: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/pdf/retirementtoolkit.pdf.

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From the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services HHS Million Hearts E-Update July/August 2013 In case you missed it Updated LongTermCare.gov website is linked here. ***********************************************

From the Federal Reserve Board's Division of Consumer and Community Affairs (DCCA) Insights into the Financial Experiences of Older Adults: A Forum Briefing Paper July 2013 is linked here.

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

WHAT: Arizona Rural Development Council 2013 Rural Policy Forum WHEN: August 8th & 9th in Phoenix, Arizona For more information and to register: http://www.azrdc.org/2013-rural -policy-forum/

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Information on the Arizona Coalition for Assisted Living July 30th meeting is linked here.

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WHAT: 40th Annual Arizona Rural Health Conference WHEN: August 20 - 21, 2013, Prescott Resort and Conference Center, Prescott AZ

Information is provided at this link.

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WHAT: Arizona Housing Forum WHEN: September 18 - 20, 2013, Talking Stick Resort, Scottsdale

More information and registration is provided here.

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WHAT: 22nd Annual Area Agency on Aging Elder Issues Conference; Creating Caring Communities: Positive Changes, Positive Choices WHEN: October 4, 2013, High Country Conference Center, Flagstaff, AZ

For more information and to register, click here.

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Save the Date WHAT: Western Arizona Council of Governments WACOG Area Agency on Aging Region IV Conference on Aging WHEN: January 30, 2014, Hilton Garden Inn Yuma/Pivot Point For more information, click here.

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WHAT: Arizona Geriatrics Society's 25th Annual Fall Symposium Multimorbidity & The Interprofessional Team: Keeping Patients at the Center of Care WHEN: Friday and Saturday, November 8 - 9, 2013, Desert Willow Conference Center, Phoenix AZ

More information including registration is provided here.

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Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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Between legislative sessions, it is our intent to offer the Legislative Update on a monthly basis with a focus on federal activities as well as news and resources.

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Enjoy the rest of your summer! ~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

Welcome to the Legislative Update for September 28, 2013

Between legislative sessions, it is our intent to offer the Legislative Update on a bi-monthly basis.

Fiscal News

From the Joint Legislative Budget Committee

JLBC Monthly Fiscal Highlights September 2013 is linked here.

"Year-to-date, General Fund revenues are 4.6% above the prior year and are $7.6 million above forecast."

Tracking Arizona's Recovery September 2013 can be viewed here.

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Interested in the legislation tracked last session? You can access the SHORT List and the FULL List of all bills tracked by the Council at the Council's Legislative Update page by viewing past issues linked here.

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Governor's Advisory Council on Aging 2013 Senior Action Days

The Advisory Council on Aging will be holding Senior Action Day events around the state beginning Monday, September 30th. The purpose of the events is to offer older Arizonans with an opportunity to engage in a dialogue with Council members, invited state legislators and local elected officials on issues of importance to seniors in our state. The non-partisan events provide legislators with the opportunity to hear directly from older constituents from their districts in a manner that’s as time efficient and cost effective as possible.

Information collected at these events is used to develop the priorities of the Council on Aging and is shared with State agencies for planning purposes.

A list of the events and links to the flyers for those events can be found at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/SeniorActionDays.asp.

Fact Sheet Why Older Arizonans Need Our Support is provided here.

For those service providers and advocates unable to attend, we invite you to take a few minutes to complete the survey and participate in this year's Senior Action Day process by letting us know what you feel are concerns of older Arizonans. A link to the survey is provided at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GB53DKY.

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Share your thoughts at any time! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your Legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor's Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

· or contacting your legislator from your area. You can locate your legislator by going to the Arizona State Legislature website and looking for: How do I find My Legislators or by following the instructions provided at both the Senate and House Member links at www.azleg.gov.

Not sure about your district? District maps can be found on the website linked here.

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In case you missed it

Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System AHCCCS

Medicaid Moving Forward webpage that outlines updates to Medicaid programs is provided here.

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Planning ahead for the next session

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill or From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona provided here.

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FEDERAL OVERVIEW: Today, the House amended the Senate passed H.J. Res.59 continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2014; if the Senate rejects the bill, a shutdown seems certain.

Aging related legislation

H.R.3090 Elder Protection and Abuse Prevention Act Introduced on 9/12/2013 by Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-17)

Elder Protection and Abuse Prevention Act

Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to direct the Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services for Aging to: (1) ensure that all programs funded under such Act include appropriate training in elder abuse prevention and the provision of services that address elder justice and exploitation, and (2) update periodically the need for and benefit of such training related to prevention of abuse, neglect, and exploitation (including financial exploitation) of older adults.

Makes it a duty and function of the Administration on Aging to: (1) establish priority information and assistance services for older individuals; (2) ensure full collaboration between all governmental information and assistance systems that serve older individuals; and (3) develop a National Eldercare Locator Service, with a nationwide toll free number.

Directs the Assistant Secretary, by grant or contract with a national nonprofit entity, to establish a National Adult Protective Services Resources Center to improve the capacity of state and local adult protective services programs to: (1) respond effectively to abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults, including home care consumers and residents of long-term care facilities; and (2) coordinate with the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.

Requires each area plan to provide that the area agency on aging: (1) increases public awareness of elder abuse and financial exploitation, and removes barriers to elder abuse education, prevention, investigation, and treatment; (2) coordinates elder justice activities of the area agency on aging, community health centers, other public agencies, and nonprofit private organizations; (3) develops standardized, coordinated, and reporting protocols with respect to elder abuse; and (4) reports instances of elder abuse.

Directs the Assistant Secretary to make grants to states under approved state plans for elder abuse and neglect screening.

Requires a state operating a nutrition project to encourage individuals who distribute nutrition services to distribute information on diabetes, elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and the annual Medicare wellness exam.

Requires a state, an area agency on aging, a nonprofit organization, or a tribal organization that receives a grant for an older individuals' protection from violence project to use it to research and replicate successful models of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation prevention and training.

Directs the Assistant Secretary to award grants and enter into contracts with eligible organizations to carry out projects to engage volunteers over 50 years of age in providing support and information to older adults (and their families or caretakers) who have experienced or are at risk of elder abuse.

Allows a state to use funds under the National Family Caregiver Support Program to support the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman.

On 9/12/2013, the bill was referred to House committee on Education and the Workforce.

Related Bills:S.1019

H.R.3114 Helping Families and Seniors Save on Health Care Act of 2013 Introduced on 9/17/2013 by Representative Ron Barber (AZ-2) To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the increase in the income threshold used in determining the deduction for medical care.

On 9/17/2013, the bill was referred to House Committee on Ways and Means

H.R.3152 Pay Our Veterans and Seniors First Act Introduced on 9/19/2013 by Representative Tom Reed (NY-23)

To prohibit Members of Congress, the President, the Vice President, and the head of any Executive department from receiving pay for any period in which there is a Government shutdown and to provide for payments to seniors, military and veterans during a Government shutdown.

On 9/19/2013, referred to House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committees on Armed Services, House Administration, Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce, and Veterans' Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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If you want to check on the status of any of these bills or others, go to the Thomas website (http://thomas.loc.gov/) and enter the bill number or title under Search Bill Summary & Status.

You can also conduct a bill search and review at: http://beta.congress.gov/.

See active federal legislation at: http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/legislative/b_three _sections_with_teasers/active_leg_page.htm. ***********************************************

Share your opinions with members of Congress!

Links to the membership lists are provided below.

House members

Senate members

***********************************************

You can contact the White House at this link.

ALSO: A compilation of contact information is provided at: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.

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NEWS & RESOURCES

From the National Institutes of Health

NIH funding boosts new Alzheimer's research on prevention, novel drug targets http://www.nih.gov/news/health/sep2013/nia-18.htm

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From National Center on Senior Transportation NCST News

Volunteer Transportation

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National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease: 2013 Update http://aspe.hhs.gov/daltcp/napa/NatlPlan2013.shtml

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From the National Council on Aging NCOA Facts about Older Workers

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From Kaiser Health News

FAQ: What You Need to Know About The New Online Marketplaces http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/

A Very Quick Guide to Health Insurance Exchanges is linked here.

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From the National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities NASUAD Friday Updates September 27, 2013

Senate Hearing on Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act of 2013 to Take Place on October 2

The Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee is scheduled to mark up legislation to reauthorize the Older Americans Act on Wednesday, October 2. The legislation, which has yet to be formally introduced, represents the bipartisan efforts of the HELP Committee leadership, and that of the Subcommittee on Primary Health and Aging. NASUAD applauds the bipartisan working group, and will continue to monitor and engage on the draft bill's movement. The text of the bill will be available at www.nasuad.org when it is released.

Click here to view the Executive Session notice.

Click here to view the draft bill.

Click here to view a summary of the bill's contents

CFPB Releases a Guidance to Financial Institutions to Help Spot Elder Financial Exploitation and Abuse

Older Americans are often targeted by scam artists, family members, financial advisers, caregivers, home repair target, among others. Financial institutions often spot the red flags for abuse sooner than anyone else can, but their employees may be confused about whether privacy laws allow them to share information with authorities that can take action.

Along with other federal regulators, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) released guidance which clarifies for banks and other financial institutions that they generally may report suspected elder financial exploitation to the appropriate authorities without breaking a federal privacy law. Click here to view the CFPB guidance.

Statement of the NAMD, the NASUAD, and the NASDDDS Responding to the U.S. Department of Labor Changes to the Fair Labor Standards Act Can be found here:

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Commission on Long-Term Care released report and recommendations

Commission Report is found here.

Alternative report is provided here.

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Arizona's Health IT

Roadmap 2.0

Public Meeting

Arizona's Health IT Roadmap 2.0, a community strategic planning process aimed at developing a shared vision and roadmap for health IT progress in Arizona for the next two to three years, will hold its first public meeting on October 1, 2013. AzHeC has led the project, funded by the Arizona Strategic Enterprise Technology (ASET) office through the Arizona HIE Cooperative Agreement Program, with consulting and subject matters expertise from Mosaica Partners, LLC.

Registration available online before October 1st

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INFORMATION & RESOURCES:

WHAT: 22nd Annual Area Agency on Aging Elder Issues Conference; Creating Caring Communities: Positive Changes, Positive Choices

WHEN: October 10, 2013, High Country Conference Center, Flagstaff, AZ

For more information and to register, click here.

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WHAT: Living with PURPOSE in a Worn-Out Body and Joy Boosters

WHEN: Friday, October 18, 2013, 9 am to 2:30 pm, Faith Presbyterian Church, 2053 East Choctaw Drive, Sierra Vista, AZ 85650 More information is provided at this link

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WHAT: Arizona Geriatrics Society's 25th Annual Fall Symposium Multimorbidity & The Interprofessional Team: Keeping Patients at the Center of Care

WHEN: Friday and Saturday, November 8 - 9, 2013, Desert Willow Conference Center, Phoenix AZ

More information including registration is provided here.

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WHAT: Arizona Passenger Rail Conference and ADOT Transit Safety/Security Training Provided by NTI

WHEN: November 14 & 15, 201; November 13, 2013, Tucson Marriott University Park, 800 East Second Street, Tucson AZ

More information and registration is provided here.

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Save the Date

WHAT: Western Arizona Council of Governments WACOG Area Agency on Aging Region IV Conference on Aging

WHEN: January 30, 2014, Hilton Garden Inn Yuma/Pivot Point

For more information, click here.

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Just in case you're interested

Back issues of the Legislative Updates are linked on the Council website at: http://www.azgovernor.gov/gaca/LegUpdates.asp.

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*********************************************** Enjoy the fall season!

~Governor's Advisory Council on Aging

If you wish to be REMOVED from or know someone who would like to be ADDED to the Update, please send an email to: [email protected] and ask to be unsubscribed or subscribed to the Legislative Update.

Welcome to the Legislative Update for November 29, 2013

Between legislative sessions, it is our intent to offer the Legislative Update monthly.

Fiscal News

From the Joint Legislative Budget Committee

JLBC Monthly Fiscal Highlights November 2013 is linked here.

"Year-to-date, General Fund revenues are 4.6% above the prior year and are $7.3 million above forecast. While year-to-date collections are near forecast, performance in each revenue category show a more mixed picture..."

Tracking Arizona's Recovery November 2013 can be viewed here.

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The second regular session of the 51st Legislature begins on January 13, 2014. A copy of the Legislative Council’s session deadlines can be found here.

To review the list of Interim Committee meeting, go to: http://www.azleg.gov/InterimCommittees.asp.

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Planning ahead for the next session

If you want to learn more about the legislative process, see Arizona Bill or From Idea To Bill To Law, The Legislative Process in Arizona provided here.

Interested in the budget process? You can learn more at: http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/budgetprocess.htm

Need to review the Arizona Constitution? Go to: http://www.azleg.gov/Constitution.asp

Have questions on navigating the Arizona State Legislature website? A helpful resource, Frequently Asked Questions, is provided here.

*********************************************** Share your thoughts at any time! If you have a particular perspective to share with the Governor or your Legislators, you may voice your thoughts at any time by contacting the:

· Governor’s Office of Constituent Services at 602-542-4331 or toll-free at 1-800-253- 0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

Not sure about your congressional or legislative district? Maps can be found here.

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