Caregiving is demanding work, but in Massachusetts, a fundamental unfairness exists: if you care for your disabled or elderly spouse at home, MassHealth currently prohibits you from being paid for that service under programs like Adult Foster Care (AFC).
This outdated policy forces families into impossible choices, often leading to financial collapse, emotional burnout, or the unnecessary placement of a loved one in a nursing home. It’s time for the law to recognize the reality of care that happens in homes across the Commonwealth. Spouses are already providing this care—they simply deserve to be compensated for it.
The Legislative Solution
Fortunately, a group of bipartisan legislators is pushing for change. The key legislative vehicles are House Bill HD. 4524, filed by Representative Adam Scanlon (D), and its Senate companion, Senate Bill S. 914, sponsored by Senator Bruce Tarr (R) and co-sponsored by lawmakers like Senator Joanne M. Comerford (D).
These bills aim to direct the state to update MassHealth regulations, specifically within the Adult Foster Care (AFC) program, to allow spouses to qualify for compensation just as other non-spousal family members already do.
What’s Happening Now?
These critical bills are currently moving through the legislative committee process. HD. 4524 has been referred to the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities, and a public hearing was recently scheduled. This means the bill is actively being considered, and the window for public input is open and urgent.
Your Call to Action: Use This Script Now!
Step 1: Copy Email Script (Takes 30 seconds)
Use this script to contact your legislator. The button below copies the entire message instantly!
Subject: URGENT: Support Paid Spousal Caregiver Bills HD. 4524 & S. 914
Dear [Representative’s Name] and [Senator’s Name],
I am writing to urge your favorable report for H.D. 4524 and S. 914, bills that would allow spouses to be paid as caregivers under the MassHealth Adult Foster Care (AFC) program.
Current policy creates immense financial hardship for families where a spouse must leave employment to provide 24/7 care for their partner, often due to conditions like stroke or long-term disability. This risks unnecessary institutionalization.
These bills are a common-sense equity fix. They ensure dignity and financial stability for caregivers who provide the highest quality of care at home, which is far more cost-effective than facility care.
Please support HD. 4524 and S. 914. Thank you for your leadership.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address/Town]
The legislative system only moves when legislators hear directly from their constituents. If you believe spouses deserve to be paid for the difficult, full-time care they provide, your voice is needed.
Step 1: Find your State Representative and State Senator. (Search online for “Find My Legislator MA”)
Step 2: Use the script to email or call their office:
Step 3: Share Your Story (Optional but Powerful): If you are a spousal caregiver or rely on one, add a brief, personal sentence to the script about the difference this bill would make for your family.
