Build Back Better Bill Passes House

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Nov. 19, 2021)–The Biden Administration’s Build Back Better bill–which includes funds to expand Medicare and other senior services–took a step forward Friday when it passed in the House of Representatives. 

The $1.75-trillion bill, which would put about $150 billion into home- and community-based services, passed 220-213. It now heads to the Senate for review; Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said his goal is to pass it before Christmas. 

“Today’s historic vote of support for home care comes at a time when the country needs it more than ever,” said National Association for Homecare and Hospice President William A. Dombi. “Health care at home is widely recognized as high value, high quality, and highly preferred. From pediatric nursing care to home care aide services for those with multiple chronic illnesses as they age, this legislation will provide improved access to home care. We now look to the Senate to complete the work to protect our families and friends who need this essential care.”

When first introduced, the social infrastructure effort earmarked $400 billion for home health and senior services; that has been pared back along with other provisions of the bill. 

The measure would expand HCBS, make the Money Follows the Person program permanent, and provide additional funding for hearing coverage and out-of-pocket prescriptions for Medicaid recipients, among other efforts.