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Wildfires prompt evacuation in the Carolinas as New Jersey crews battle their own blaze; Iowa town halls find 'empty chairs'; CA groups bring generations together to work on society's biggest problems; PA works to counter Trump clean energy rollbacks.

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Lawmakers from both parties face angry constituents. Some decide to skip town halls rather than address concerned voters and Kentucky considers mandatory Medicaid work requirements.

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Cuts to Medicaid and frozen funding for broadband are both likely to have a negative impact on rural healthcare, which is already struggling. Plus, lawsuits over the mass firing of federal workers have huge implications for public lands.

Report: CT supports tax credit for unpaid family caregivers

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Tuesday, February 25, 2025   

New research found most Connecticut residents support creating a family caregiver tax credit.

The state has 420,000 family caregivers, providing a little more than $7 billion in care. Senate Bill 321 would provide a $500 nonrefundable tax credit for caregivers supporting senior family members who are 50-60 years old and receive Social Security or are under the same income limits.

Natalie Shurtleff, associate state director of advocacy and engagement for AARP Connecticut, said it is often hard work for them.

"We hear so often from family caregivers that are really that sandwich generation," Shurtleff reported. "They're caring for older loved ones while also caring for younger children and trying to juggle work."

The bill is in its earliest phases and a public hearing will occur soon. The report showed about half of unpaid family caregivers spent their own money on home modifications and buying medical equipment like wheelchairs. Monthly spending for some family caregivers varies from spending nothing to $1,000 or more a month.

Beyond the financial effects of being a family caregiver, they often face physical and mental challenges too. The AARP report noted most family caregivers in the state report feel emotionally stressed trying to balance their responsibilities. Shurtleff pointed out there are some things to keep in mind as they care for others.

"One of the things that we always try to remind family caregivers is to give themselves permission for some self-care," Shurtleff noted. "Because it's so critically important to care for one's self as well as who they're caring for."

Other health challenges they face or find difficult are getting enough rest, exercising and practicing a healthy diet, and making time for doctor's visits. The report emphasized support for a tax credit is bipartisan, with more than half of Democrat, Republican and Independent voters in favor of it.

Disclosure: AARP Connecticut contributes to our fund for reporting on Budget Policy and Priorities, Health Issues, Hunger/Food/Nutrition, and Senior Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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