Nevada Senator Introduces ‘Lowering Costs For Caregivers Act’

Nevada Senator Jacky Rosen this month introduced bipartisan legislation to lower costs for caregivers and make it easier for adult children to support a parent’s medical expenses. 

The bill is called the Lowering Costs For Caregivers Act, and if passed, it will allow caregivers to help their families by using their tax-free health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts for health care for their parents. Currently, adult children cannot use these accounts to cover medical expenses for their parents unless the parents are classified as dependents.

“Caregivers are the backbone of many Nevada families, often taking on additional costs when providing care for a family member,” Sen. Rosen said. “At a time of high inflation and rising costs, I’m continuing to take action to lower costs for hardworking Nevada families. This commonsense step will make caring for family members more affordable.”

If passed, the financial burdens families may face will be eased. 

Dr. Peter Reed, Ph.D., from the Sanford Center for Aging at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine said being a care partner can be stressful physically, psychologically, and economically.

“Necessary expenses can place a tremendous burden on a family, and this legislation will help to ease that stress, allowing care partners to focus on other important aspects of caring for their loved ones,” he explained.

The navigators with ThriveNV work with caregivers who are caring for those diagnosed with cancer and can provide assistance in finding financial resources and overcoming barriers to care and support. Learn more about how our navigators can assist here.

We’ll also follow the progress of this bill through Congress and share details if and when it passes.