The Senate Committee on Appropriations released its Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies funding bill on July 31. The National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) commends the Committee for its decisive action today in providing $2.5 billion in total funding across critical aging and caregiver support programs—including the National Family Caregiver Support Program (a proposed increase of $2 million over FY25), the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers (a proposed increase of $1 million over FY25), the Lifespan Respite Care program (a proposed increase of $1 million over FY25), the Native American Caregiver Support program, and program administration through the Administration for Community Living. These investments recognize the critical role our nation’s 63 million family caregivers play in providing essential support to people with chronic conditions, disabilities, and age-related needs across the US.
“The Senate Appropriations Committee sent a clear message: supporting family caregivers is a bipartisan priority that cannot be ignored” stated Jason Resendez, President & CEO, of the National Alliance for Caregiving. “We thank Appropriations Committee Chair Collins and Vice Chair Murray, Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Chair Capito and Vice Chair Baldwin and other members of the Committee for their support and this funding, which will expand access to crucial support services that enable Americans to provide care sustainably and with dignity. This investment complements robust funding for Alzheimer’s research, cancer research, and other medical priorities that directly impact caregiver hardship.”
Family caregivers are the backbone of our nation’s economy and long-term care system, yet they often sacrifice their own health, careers, and financial security to care for people in their lives. This federal investment demonstrates a commitment to ensuring family caregivers of older adults receive the resources, training, and respite they need. The dedicated funding for implementing the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers will allow states to develop, test, and scale innovative models that address the diverse needs of caregivers across the country. We are grateful for all the advocates, caregivers, and champions who have worked tirelessly to bring visibility to this critical issue.
These investments represent important progress in building a comprehensive support system for family caregivers. The Committee’s action recognizes that supporting family caregivers is not just about individual families—it’s about strengthening our entire care infrastructure and ensuring quality care for millions of Americans. NAC urges the House Appropriations Committee to match the Senate in these vital investments for family caregiver support programs. Together, we can build a care infrastructure that honors the dedication of family caregivers and ensures no one faces the caregiving journey alone.
