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Senior Citizens
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1668248
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Senior Citizens
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collections
Elizabeth M. O'Neill Files
Elizabeth O'Neill's Subject Files
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Ford, Betty, 1918-2011
Old age
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1668248
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1976-04-30
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The original documents are located in Box 5, folder "Senior Citizens" of the Elizabeth M.
O'Neill Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the
United States of America her copyrights in all of her husband's unpublished writings in National
Archives collections. Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official
duties are in the public domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or
organizations are presumed to remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed
in the PDF is subject to a valid copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential
Library.
senior city no
January 21, 1976
Dear Mrs. Coble:
Thank you very much for writing to Mrs. Ford of
the activities of the Clairmont Steppers, including
your holiday meals for members who have no place to
go and your appearances at nutrition centers. It
was a special pleasure to learn of your imaginative
and energetic programs.
You each have Mrs. Ford's warmest wishes for con-
tinued enjoyment and friendship and for the success
of your "bus project."
Sincerely,
Marba S. Perrott
Director of Correspondence
for Mrs. Ford
Mrs. Lee E. Coble
President, The Clairmont Steppers
301 Clairmont Oaks
Decatur, Georgia 30030
AH/meb
GERALD FORD
op
on
Dear Mrs. Coble:
Thank you very much for wtiting to Mrs. Ford of the activities
of the Clairmont Steppers, including your holiday meabs for
members who have mplace to go and your appearances at
nutrition centers. It was a special pleasure to learn of your
imaginative and energetic programs.
You each have Mrs. Ford's warmest wishes for continued
enjoyment and friendship and for the success of your "bus
project."
Sincerely,
MSP
AH
Mrs. Lee E. Coble
President, The Clairmont Steppers
301 Clairmont Oaks
Decatur, Georgia 30030
SECURITY FORD LIBRARY
senior critizine
January 14, 1976
Dear Mr. Grodner:
Thank you for writing to Mrs. Ford of the very saddening passing
of Mrs. Grodner and of your desire for the First Lady's thoughts
on recommended activities. We were so saddened to learn of your
situation and deeply sympathize, hoping that the knowledge of the
happiness which you gave will be a source of comfort.
May we suggest your church as a place to share friendship and
interests and nursing homes in your area where you might like
to read or type letters for others. In addition, ACTION, a federal
agency, offers a variety of programs to provide personalized ser-
vices through citizen participation to people in need. Some of these
are programs for Foster Grandparents, Retired Senior Volunteers,
and the Service Corps of Retired Executives. The regional office
close to you is at 520 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin
53715. Also, you might find interesting the tours and other aspects
of the American Association of Retired Persons, 1909 K Street,
N. W., Washington, D. C. 20006.
With warmest wishes,
Sincerely,
Marba S. Perrott
Director of Correspondence for Mrs. Ford
SERALD
R.
DEBT
Mr. Erwin Grodner
LIBRARY
3700 North Sherman Boulevard
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53216
AH
senior citizen
happiness
January 12, 1976
Dear Mr. Hennigan:
Thank you very much for writing to request
Mrs. Ford's recommendations of enjoyable
activities for your mother, who has been a
widow for eight years. You were kind to
express concern for your mother's happiness.
In case your mother would like to use her time
to help others, we are pleased to let you know
that ACTION is a federal agency designed to
provide personalized services to people in need
through citizen participation. ACTION offers
a variety of programs depending upon a person's
interests and background. The Pittsburgh office
is at 4401 Fifth Avenue.
In the meantime, surely your mother's church,
as you mentioned, is a fine source of sharing
with others, and she is fortunate to have a son
as thoughtful as you.
Sincerely,
Marba S. Perrott
Director of Correspondence for Mrs. Ford
Mr. Paul Hennigan
3535 Villawood Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15227
AH
FORD 2. GERALD LIBRARY
senior citizens
legislation
December 31, 1975
Dear Maylene Madick:
Thank you very much for your letter to
Mrs. Ford, asking about bills which have
been passed in favor of the elderly during
the Ford Administration.
It is a pleasure to enclose a copy of the
major piece of legislation pertaining to
senior sitizens and enacted since August
1974--H. R. 3922, "Older Americans
Amendments of 1975"--as well as the
remarks which President Ford made upon
signing it into law (P. L. 94-135).
You have Mrs. Ford's gratitude for your
kind good wishes and her warm regards.
Sincerely,
Marba S. Perrott
Director of Correspondence for Mrs. Ford
Maylene Madick
2300 South 25th Street, No. 301
Arlington, Virginia 22206
AH
ENCLOSE PL 94-135 & PRESS RELEASE OF 11/28/75
GENATO R. FORD LIBRAFE
Bill # - Records
Dan
Marks
tom Jones
150 - 160 bills signed
-2226
Ron Geislen
hasn't been printed
Connie Banford 6585
12/11/95
Romke
hold
mat Fruderadorg -2230 1965
P.L. 94-135
amend
amendments 71975
H.R.-3922
major price " older americans act" -
Nov, 28
last week signed
anchmes Pec',
[OMB - Degislative Reference]
GPO is be
purted
get. so, pm for older ams,
app
Mr, Sandor -4770 butt affairs
mr. Frey / -4864 12/8 wcs tomorrow
asst Dir.
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GERALD R. FORD Tionnir
charge 11:E
021
THE WHITE HOUSE
blad
WASHINGTON
0889
THE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEMBER 28, 1975
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
I have given my approval today to H.R. 3922, Older
Americans Amendments of 1975"
Ten years ago, as a member of the House of Representatives,
I voted for the Older Americans Act when it was enacted by
the Congress. I also voted for subsequent amendments to the
act. I am pleased now to give my approval to this bill which
amends the act and extends it for three years. These latest
amendments were the result of ten years of experiences in
administering the act.
Incorporated in the Older Americans Act, as amended,
are certain principles to guide the administration of the
act:
Emphasis will be placed on making services available
which will enable older persons to live at home as long
as possible.
Community leaders who best know the needs of their own
areas will determine the services for older persons
to be started or strengthened.
The needs of low income, older persons, including
minorities, will be given priority in use of Federal
funds.
Efforts will be made to enlist volunteers from all
age groups to assist in serving older persons.
The resources now available to meet the needs of older
persons will continue to be coordinated through programs
administered by a number of Federal departments and
agencies.
Emphasis will be placed on opening opportunities for
older persons to continue to participate constructively
in the life of our nation.
I endorse the concept of the Older Americans Act which
establishes a system to deliver coordinated comprehensive
services at the community level and which is designed to
enable older persons to live independent lives in their
own residences and to participate in the life of their
community.
There are, however, provisions of this act with which
I disagree. The provisions concerned with age discrimination
on the part of all Federal grantees have been modified to
meet many but not all, objections. The delineation of what
constitutes unreasonable age discrimination is so imprecise
that it gives little guidance in the development of regula-
tions to prohibit such discrimination. Also, the provisions
more
(OVER)
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raise a question on the extent to which the Federal Government
should seek to regulate private activity, particularly without
holding hearings to permit affected persons and institutions
to be heard.
The bill does provide, however, for study of the problems
of age discrimination by the Commission on Civil Rights, and
allows for these issues to be discussed thoroughly. I urge
the Congress to reconsider these problems.
At a time when we are struggling to restrain growth in
the Federal budget, I am not pleased to see the high authoriza.
tion levels included in this bill. The authorization for
social service programs for fiscal year 1976, for example, is
almost twice that of my budget request. I am confident the
members of the Congress share my concern about the impact of
inflation on the elderly. I look forward to working with
the Congress in determining appropriations levels for this
act which nt will be adequate, equitable 10 and not inflationary.
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THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
am
pan requested this
some time ago
Ran Just
Records
BERALD R. FORD
Public Law 94-135
94th Congress, H. R. 3922
November 28, 1975
An Act
To amend the Older Americans Act of 1965 to establish certain social services
programs for older Americans and to extend the authorizations of appropria-
tions contained in such Act, to prohibit discrimination on the basis of age, and
for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled, That this Act may Older
be cited as the "Older Americans Amendments of 1975".
Americans
Amendments
TITLE I-AMENDMENTS TO OLDER AMERICANS ACT
of 1975.
42 USC 3001
OF 1965
note.
TRANSMISSION OF CERTAIN RECOMMENDATIONS RELATING TO FEDERAL
COUNCIL OF AGING
SEC. 101. (a) Section 205 (g) of the Older Americans Act of 1965
(42 U.S.C. 3015 (g)) (hereinafter in this title referred to as the "Act")
is amended by striking out "eighteen months after enactment of this
Act" and inserting in lieu thereof "January 1, 1976,".
(b) Section 205 (h) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3015(h)) is amended by
striking out "eighteen months after enactment of this Act," and
inserting in lieu thereof "January 1, 1976,".
APPLICATION OF OTHER LAWS
SEC. 102. Title II of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3011 et seq.) is amended by
adding at the end thereof the following new section:
"APPLICATION OF OTHER LAWS
"SEC. 211. The provisions and requirements of the Act of Decem-
42 USC 3020a.
ber 5, 1974 (Public Law 93-510; 88 Stat. 1604) shall not apply to the
42 USC 4251
administration of the provisions of this Act or to the administration note.
of any program or activity under this Act.".
DEFINITION OF SOCIAL SERVICES
SEC. 103. Section 302 (1) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3022 (1)) is
amended-
(1) in subparagraph (E) thereof, by striking out "or" at the
end thereof; and
(2) by redesignating subparagraph (F) as subparagraph (H)
and by inserting immediately after subparagraph (E) the follow-
ing new subparagraphs:
"
(F) services designed to provide legal and other counseling
services and assistance, including tax counseling and assistance
and financial counseling, to older persons;
" (G) services designed to enable older persons to attain and
maintain physical and mental well being through programs of
regular physical activity and exercise; or".
89 STAT. 713
FORD & BERRED LIBRARY
P.L. 94-135 0
Pub. Law 94-135
- 2
November 28, 1975
November 28, 1975
- 3 -
Pub. Law 94-135
GRANTS TO INDIAN TRIBES
(d) Section 303(b) (4) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3023 (b) (4)), as so
redesignated by subsection (a), is amended by inserting immediately
SEC. 104. (a) Section 303(b) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3023 is
after "States" a comma and the following: "and the number of
amended by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4) and by
Indians aged sixty or over on, or in proximity to, any Federal or State
inserting immediately after paragraph (2) the following new
reservation or rancheria".
paragraph:
(3) (A) In any State in which the Commissioner determines (after
AREA PLAN REQUIREMENTS
having taken into account the amount of funds available to the State
agency or to an appropriate area agency on aging to carry out the pur-
SEC. 105. (a) Section (c) (4) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3024 (4))
poses of this title) that the members of an Indian tribe are not receiv-
is amended by striking out subparagraph (C) and by redesignating
ing benefits under this title that are equivalent to benefits provided to
subparagraph (D) through subparagraph (F) as subparagraph (C)
other older persons in the State or appropriate area, and if he further
through subparagraph (E), respectively.
determines that the members of such tribe would be better served by
(b) Section 304 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3024) is amended by inserting
means of grants made directly to provide such benefits, he shall reserve
fter subsection (c) the following new subsection:
from sums that would otherwise be allotted to such State under para-
(d) (1) Subject to regulations prescribed by the Secretary of
graph (2) not less than 100 per centum nor more than 150 per centum
Health, Education, and Welfare, an area agency on aging designated
of an amount which bears the same ratio to the State's allotment for
under subsection (a) or, in areas of a State where no such agency has
the fiscal year involved as the population of all Indians aged sixty or
been designated, the State agency, is authorized to enter into agree-
over for whom a determination under this paragraph has been made
ments with agencies administering programs under the Rehabilita-
bears to the population of all persons aged sixty or over in such State.
tion Act of 1973, and titles VI, XIX, and XX of the Social Security
29 USC 701
(B) The sums reserved by the Commissioner on the basis of his
Act for the purpose of developing and implementing plans for meet-
note.
determination under this paragraph shall be granted to the tribal
ing the common need for transportation services of persons receiving
42 USC 801,
organization serving the individuals for whom such a determination
benefits under such Acts and older persons participating in programs
1396, 1397.
has been made, or where there is no tribal organization, to such other
authorized by titles III and VII of this Act.
42 USC 3021,
entity as he determines has the capacity to provide services pursuant
"(2) Pursuant to an agreement entered into under paragraph (1),
3045.
to this title.
funds appropriated under titles III and VII of this Act may be used to
Transportation
"(C) In order for a tribal organization or other entity to be eligible
purchase transportation services for older persons and may be pooled
services, funds.
for a grant for a fiscal year under this paragraph, it shall submit to
with funds made available for the provision of transportation services
the Commissioner a plan for such fiscal year which meets such criteria
under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and titles VI, XIX, and XX of
as the Commissioner may prescribe by regulation and which meets
the Social Security Act.".
42 USC 3025.
criteria established by section 305(a), to the extent the Commissioner
determines such criteria to be appropriate.
NATIONAL PRIORITY SERVICES
(D) Recipients of grants under this paragraph may retain for
administrative purposes an amount equal to the amount available for
SEC. 106. (a) Section 305(a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3025 is
42 USC 3023.
the cost of the administration of area plans under section 303(e) (1).".
amended by striking out "and" immediately after the semicolon in
(b) Section 102 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3002) is amended by adding
paragraph (8), by striking out the period at the end of paragraph
at the end thereof the following new paragraphs:
(9) and inserting in lieu thereof a semicolon and "and", and by insert-
"Indian.
"
"(4) The term 'Indian' means a person who is a member of an
ing the following new paragraph immediately after paragraph (9)
Indian tribe.
(10) provides assurances in such form as the Commissioner
"Indian tribe.
(5) The term 'Indian tribe' means any tribe, band, nation, or other
shall prescribe that of the funds alloted to the State under section
organized group or community of Indians (including any Alaska
303 (b) in any fiscal year to carry out the State plan, not less than
Native village or regional or village corporation as defined in or estab-
50 per centum of the amount by which such allotment exceeds the
lished pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (Public
allotment made for the same purpose in the fiscal year ending
43 USC 1602.
Law 92-203; 85 Stat. 688) ) which (A) is recognized as eligible for
June 30, 1975, shall be used for the purposes set forth in section
the special programs and services provided by the United States to
(b), except with respect to any State which provides assurances
Indians because of their status as Indians; or (B) is located on, or in
found satisfactory by the Commissioner that at least 331/3 per
proximity to, a Federal or State reservation or rancheria.
centum of the total amount allotted to the State under section
"Tribal
(6) The term 'tribal organization' means the recognized governing
303(b) to carry out the State plan in any fiscal year shall be used
organization."
body of any Indian tribe, or any legally established organization of
for the purposes set forth in section 305(b), but in no case shall
Indians which is controlled, sanctioned, or chartered by such governing
less than 20 per centum of the funds allotted to any State under
body. In any case in which a contract is let or grant made to an orga-
section 303(b) to carry out the State plan in any fiscal year begin-
nization to perform services benefiting more than one Indian tribe,
ning after September 30, 1976, be used for the purposes set forth
the approval of each such Indian tribe shall be a prerequisite to the
in section 305 (b).
letting or making of such contract or grant.".
(b) Section 305 (a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3025 is amended by
(c) The first sentence of section 303(b) (2) of the Act (42 U.S.C.
redesignating subsections (b), (c), (d), and (e) as subsections (c),
3023 (2)) is amended by striking out "From" and inserting in lieu
(d). (e), and (f), respectively, and by inserting the following new sub-
thereof "Subject to the provisions of paragraph (3), from".
section immediately after subsection (a):
89 STAT. 714
89 STAT. 715
Pub. Law 94-135
- 4 -
November 28, 1975
November 28, 1975
- 5 -
Pub. Law 94-135
'(b) Every State plan shall provide for the establishment or main-
tenance of programs (including related training) for the provision of
"(D) Amounts which any State may receive in any fiscal year under
some or all of the following services designed to assist older persons in
this paragraph may not exceed three-fourths of 1 per centum of the
leading independent lives and avoiding unnecessary institutional-
sum of the amounts allotted to such State to carry out the State plan
ization:
under section 303 (b) and section 703 (a) for such fiscal year.
"(1) Transportation services.
"(E) No application by a State under subparagraph (A) shall be
42 USC 302
"(2) Home services, including homemaker services, home health
approved unless it contains assurances that no amounts received by
3045b.
services, shopping services, escort services, reader services, letter
such State under this paragraph will be used to hire any person to fill
writing services, and other services designed to assist such persons
a job opening created by the action of such State in laying off or ter-
to continue living independently in a home environment.
minating the employment of any regular employee not supported
"(3) Legal and other counseling services and assistance pro-
under this Act in anticipation of filling the vacancy SO created by
grams, including tax counseling and assistance and financial
hiring an employee to be supported through use of amounts received
counseling, for older persons.
under this paragraph.
"(4) Residential repair and renovation programs designed to
"(3) Each State shall be entitled to an allotment under this section
enable older persons to maintain their homes in conformity with
for any fiscal year in an amount which is not less than the amount
minimum housing standards or to adapt homes to meet the needs
of the allotment to which such State was entitled under paragraph (1)
of elderly persons suffering from physical disabilities.".
for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975.".
(c) Section 304(c) (2) of the Act U.S.C. 3024 (c) (2)) is amended
by inserting immediately after "priorities," the following: "and con-
MODEL PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
sistent with the provisions of the State plan relating to the services
42 USC 3025.
required to be provided under section 305 (a) (10),".
Sec. 108. Section 308(a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3028 is amended
by striking out "or" at the end of paragraph (3), by striking out the
ADMINISTRATION OF STATE PLANS
period at the end of paragraph (4) and inserting in lieu thereof a semi-
colon and "or", and by inserting immediately after paragraph (4) the
SEC. 107. (a) Section 306(b) (1) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3026(} (1))
following new paragraphs:
is amended by striking out "$160,000" in clause (A) and inserting in
"(5) enable State agencies on aging and other public and private
lieu thereof "$200,000", and by striking out "$50,000" in clause (B)
nonprofit organizations to assist in the promotion and develop-
and inserting in lieu thereof "$62,500".
ment of ombudsman services for residents of nursing homes;
(b) Section 306(b) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3026(b)) is amended by
"(6) meet the special needs of, and improve the delivery of serv-
redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (4), and by inserting
ices to, older persons who are not receiving adequate services
immediately after paragraph (1) the following new paragraphs:
under other provisions of this Act, with emphasis on the needs
Application
"(2) (A) Any State which desires to receive amounts, in addition to
of low-income, minority, Indian, and limited-English speaking
for additional
amounts allotted to such State under paragraph (1), to be used in the
individuals, and the rural elderly; or
funds.
administration of its State plan in accordance with subsection (a) may
"(7) assist older persons to remain within their communities
transmit an application to the Commissioner in accordance with this
and out of institutions and to maintain their independent living
paragraph. Any such application shall be transmitted in such form,
by (A) providing financial assistance for the establishment and
and according to such procedures, as the Commissioner may require,
operation of senior ambulatory care day centers (providing a
except that such application may not be made as part of, or as an
planned schedule of health, therapeutic, educational, nutritional,
amendment to. the State plan.
recreational, and social services at least twenty-four hours per
(B) The Commissioner may approve any application transmitted
week, transportation arrangements at low or no cost for partici-
by a State under subparagraph (A) if the Commissioner determines,
pants to and from the center, a hot mid-day meal, outreach and
based upon a particularized showing of need, that-
public information programs, and opportunities for maximum
"(i) such State will be unable to fully and effectively administer
participation of senior participants and senior volunteers in the
its State plan and to carry out programs and projects authorized
planning and operation of such center), and (B) maintaining or
42 USC 3045.
by this title and by title VII unless such additional amounts are
initiating arrangements (or providing reasonable assurances that
made available by the Commissioner:
such arrangements will be maintained or initiated) with the
(iii) such State is making full and effective use of its allotment
agency of the State concerned which administers or supervises the
under paragraph (1) and of the personnel of the State agency
administration of a State plan approved under title XIX of the
42 USC 3025.
and area agencies designated under section 305 in the administra-
Social Security Act, and with other appropriate social services
42 USC 139
tion of its State plan in accordance with subsection (a) and
agencies receiving, or reimbursed through, Federal financial assist-
(iii) the State agency and area agencies of such State desig-
ance, for the payment of all or a part of such center's costs in
nated under section 305 are carrying out, on a full-time basis,
providing services to eligible persons.".
programs and activities which are in furtherance of the purposes
of this Act.
ATTRACTING QUALIFIED PERSONS TO THE FIELD OF AGING
'(C) The Commissioner may approve that portion of the amount
requested by a State in its application under subparagraph (A) which
SEC. 109. Section 403 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3033) is amended by
he determines has been justified in such application.
inserting immediately after "education" the following: "as defined
in section 1201 (a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965".
20 USC 114
89 STAT. 716
89 STAT. 717
Pub. Law 94-135
- 6
November 28, 1975
November 28, 1975
- 7 -
Pub. Law 94-135
TRAINING PERSONNEL IN THE FIELD OF AGING
"(3) There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be
Appropriation
necessary in order to carry out the program established under para-
authorization.
SEC. 110. (a) Section 404(a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3034(a)) is
amended by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), (4), and (5) as para-
graph (1).".
graphs (3), (4), (5), and (6), respectively.
(b) Section 707 (a) (4) of the Act, as SO redesignated by subsection 42 USC 3045f.
(b) Section 404 (a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3034(a)) is amended by
(a), is amended by striking out "10 cents per meal: and inserting in
striking out paragraph (1) and inserting in lieu thereof the following
lieu thereof "15 cents per meal during the fiscal year ending Septem-
ber 30, 1976, and 25 cents per meal during the fiscal year ending Sep-
new paragraphs:
"(1) to assist in paying the costs, in whole or in part, of short-
tember 30, 1977:
term and inservice training courses, workshops, institutes and
(c) Section 707 (a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045f) is amended in para-
other activities designed to improve the capabilities of partici-
graphs (1), (2), and (3) by striking out "may" each place it appears
pants to provide services to older persons and to administer pro-
therein and inserting in lieu thereof "shall".
grams related to the purposes of this Act,
(d) Section 707 of the Act, as amended by subsection (a), is further
"(2) to assist in paying the costs, in whole or in part, of post-
amended by adding at the end thereof the following new subsection
secondary education courses of training or study related to the
"(d) (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in any case
purposes of this Act, including the payment of stipends to students
in which a State has phased out its commodity distribution facilities
before June 30, 1974, such State may, for purposes of the programs
enrolled in such courses,".
(c) Section 404 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3034) is amended by adding at
authorized by this Act, elect to receive cash payments in lieu of
the end thereof the following new subsection:
donated foods. In any case in which a State makes such an election,
"(c) The Commissioner may make grants under subsection (a) to
the Secretary of Agriculture shall make cash payments to such State
in an amount equivalent in value to the donated foods which the State
assist in (1) the training of lawyers and paraprofessional persons who
otherwise would have received if such State had retained its com-
will (A) provide legal (including tax and financial) counseling and
modity distribution facilities.
services to older persons; or (B) monitor the administration of any
"(2) When such payments are made, the State agency shall promptly
program by any public or private nonprofit institution, organization,
and equitably disburse any cash it receives in lieu of commodities to
or agency, or any State or political subdivision of a State, designed to
provide assistance or services to older persons, including nursing home
recipients of grants or contracts. Such disbursements shall be used
by such recipients of grants or contracts to purchase United States
programs and other similar programs; and (2) the training of persons
agricultural commodities and other foods for their nutrition projects.".
employed by or associated with public or private nonprofit agencies or
(e) The first sentence of section 708 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045g)
organizations, including a State or political subdivision of a State,
is amended by inserting after "this title" the following: (other than
who will identify legal problems affecting older persons, develop solu-
section 707(c))".
tions for such problems, and mobilize the resources of the community
(f) Section 707 (a) (4) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045f(a) (4)), as so
to respond to the legal needs of older persons.".
redesignated by subsection (a), is amended by striking out "subsection
PURCHASE AND DONATION OF CERTAIN PRODUCTS BY SECRETARY OF
(d)" and inserting in lieu thereof "paragraph".
AGRICULTURE
AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
SEC. 111. (a) Section 707 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045f) is amended
by inserting "(1)" immediately before the first sentence of subsection
SEC. 112. (a) Section 204 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3014(c)) is
(a), by striking out "this section" in subsection (d) each place it
amended by striking out "and" immediately after "1974," and by
appears therein and inserting in lieu thereof "this subsection", by
inserting immediately after "1975," the following: "the fiscal year
redesignating subsections (b), (c), and (d) as paragraphs (2), (3),
ending June 30, 1976, the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending
and (4), respectively, by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection
September 30, 1976, and the fiscal years ending September 30, 1977,
and 1978,".
(b), and by adding at the end thereof the following new subsection
(c) (1) During each of the fiscal years ending June 30, 1975, and
(b) (1) Section 303(a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3023(a)) is amended
June 30, 1976, and during the period beginning July 1, 1976, and end-
by striking out "and" immediately after "1974," and by inserting
ing September 30, 1976, the Secretary of Agriculture shall purchase
immediately after "1975," the following: "$180,000,000 for the fiscal
year ending June 30, 1976, $57,750.000 for the period beginning July 1,
high protein foods, meat, and meat alternates on the open market, at
prices not in excess of market prices, out of funds appropriated under
1976, and ending September 30, 1976, $231,000,000 for the fiscal year
this section, as determined under paragraph (3), for distribution to
ending September 30, 1977, and $287,200,000 for the fiscal year ending
recipients of grants or contracts to be used for providing nutritional
September 30, 1978,".
services in accordance with the provisions of this title. High protein
(2) Section 303(b) (2) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3023 (b) (2)) is
food, meat, and meat alternates purchased by the Secretary of Agri-
amended by striking out "and" immediately after "1974," and by
inserting immediately after "1975," the following: "for the fiscal year
culture under this subsection shall be grown and produced in the
ending June 30, 1976, the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending
United States.
September 30, 1976, and for the fiscal years ending September 30, 1977,
"(2) High protein food, meat, and meat alternates donated under
and 1978,".
this subsection shall not be considered donated commodities for pur-
(c) Section 308(b) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3028 is amended by
poses of meeting the requirement of subsection (a) (4) with respect
to the annually programed level of assistance under subsection (a).
striking out "and" immediately after "1974," and by inserting imme-
89 STAT. 719
89 STAT. 718
Pub. Law 94-135
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November 28, 1975
November 28, 1975
- 9 -
Pub. Law 94-135
diately after "1975" the following: ", the fiscal year ending June 30,
personnel, but such personnel shall, to the fullest extent possible,
1976, the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30,
be recruited from among eligible individuals;
1976, and the fiscal years ending September 30, 1977, and 1978".
"(B) will provide employment for eligible individuals in
(d) Section 431 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3037) is amended by striking
the community in which such individuals reside, or in nearby
out "and" immediately after "1974," and by inserting immediately
communities;
after "1975" the following: ", the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976,
"(C) will employ eligible individuals in services related to
the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, and
publicly owned and operated facilities and projects, or projects
the fiscal years ending September 30, 1977, and 1978".
sponsored by organizations, other than political parties, exempt
(e) Section 505(a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3041d(a)) is amended by
from taxation under the provisions of section 501 (c) (3) of the
striking out "and" immediately after "1974," and by inserting imme-
Internal Revenue Code of 1954, except projects involving the 26 USC
501.
diately after "1975" the following: "the fiscal year ending June 30,
construction, operation, or maintenance of any facility used or
1976, the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30,
to be used as a place for sectarian religious instruction or
1976, and the fiscal years ending September 30, 1977, and 1978".
worship;
(f) Section 708 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045g) is amended by striking
(D) will contribute to the general welfare of the community;
out "and" immediately after "1976," and by inserting in lieu thereof
(E) will provide employment for eligible individuals whose
"$62,500,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending Sep-
opportunities for other suitable public or private paid employ-
tember 30, 1976,", and by striking out "June 30, 1977" and inserting in
ment are poor;
lieu thereof "September 30, 1977, and $275,000,000 for the fiscal year
"(F) (i) will result in an increase in employment opportunities
ending September 30, 1978".
over those opportunities which would otherwise be available, (ii)
will not result in the displacement of currently employed workers
COMMUNITY SERVICE EMPLOYMENT FOR OLDER AMERICANS
(including partial displacement, such as a reduction in the hours
of nonovertime work or wages or employment benefits), and (iii)
SEC. 113. (a) The Act is amended by adding at the end thereof the
will not impair existing contracts or result in the substitution of
following new title:
Federal funds for other funds in connection with work that would
otherwise be performed;
Older Ameri-
"TITLE IX-COMMUNITY SERVICE EMPLOYMENT FOR
(G) will not employ or continue to employ any eligible individ-
can Commu-
OLDER AMERICANS
ual to perform work the same or substantially the same as that
nity Service
Employment
performed by any other person who is on layoff;
Act.
"SHORT TITLE
(H) will utilize methods of recruitment and selection (includ-
ing listing of job vacancies with the employment agency operated
42 USC 3056
"SEC. 901. This title may be cited as the 'Older American Com-
by any State or political subdivision thereof) which will assure
note.
munity Service Employment Act'.
that the maximum number of eligible individuals will have an
opportunity to participate in the project;
"OLDER AMERICAN COMMUNITY SERVICE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
(I) will include such training as may be necessary to make the
most effective use of the skills and talents of those individuals who
Establishment.
"SEC. 902. (a) In order to foster and promote useful part-time
are participating, and will provide for the payment of the rea-
42 USC 3056.
opportunities in community service activities for unemployed low-
sonable expenses of individuals being trained, including a reason-
income persons who are fifty-five years old or older and who have poor
able subsistence allowance;
employment prospects, the Secretary of Labor (hereinafter in this title
"(J) will assure that safe and healthy conditions of work will be
referred to as the 'Secretary') is authorized to establish an older Amer-
provided, and will assure that persons employed in community
ican community service employment program.
service jobs assisted under this title shall be paid wages which
"(b) (1) In order to carry out the provisions of this title, the Secre-
shall not be lower than whichever is the highest of (i) the mini-
tary is authorized to enter into agreements with public or private
mum wage which would be applicable to the employee under the
nonprofit agencies or organizations, including national organizations,
Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, if section 6(a) (1) of such Act 29 USC 201.
agencies of a State government or a political subdivision of a State
applied to the participant and if he were not exempt under sec-
(having elected or duly appointed governing officials), or a combina-
tion 13 thereof, (ii) the State or local minimum wage for the most
tion of such political subdivisions, or tribal organizations in order
nearly comparable covered employment, or (iii) the prevailing
to further the purposes and goals of the program. Such agreements
rates of pay for persons employed in similar public occupations
may include provisions for the payment of costs, as provided in sub-
by the same employer;
section (c), of projects developed by such organizations and agencies
'(K) will be established or administered with the advice of
in cooperation with the Secretary in order to make the program effec-
persons competent in the field of service in which employment is
tive or to supplement the program. No payment shall be made by the
Secretary toward the cost of any project established or administered
being provided, and of persons who are knowledgeable with regard
by any such organization or agency unless he determines that such
to the needs of older persons;
(L) will authorize pay for necessary transportation costs of
project-
"(A) will provide employment only for eligible individuals,
eligible individuals which may be incurred in employment in any
except for necessary technical, administrative, and supervisory
project funded under this title, in accordance with regulations
promulgated by the Secretary;
89 STAT. 720
89 STAT. 721
Pub. Law 94-135
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November 28, 1975
November 28, 1975
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Pub. Law 94-135
"(M) will assure that, to the extent feasible, such project will
serve the needs of minority, Indian, and limited English-speaking
"(e) The Secretary shall not delegate any function of the Secretary
eligible individuals in proportion to their numbers in the State;
under this title to any other department or agency of the Federal
Government.
and
"(N) will authorize funds to be used, to the extent feasible, to
include individuals participating in such project under any State
"PARTICIPANTS NOT FEDERAL EMPLOYEES
unemployment insurance plan.
(2) The Secretary is authorized to establish, issue, and amend such
"SEC. 904. (a) Eligible individuals who are employed in any project
42 USC 3056b.
funded under this title shall not be considered to be Federal employees
regulations as may be necessary to effectively carry out the provisions
as a result of such employment and shall not be subject to the provisions
of this title.
of part III of title 5, United States Code.
5 USC 2101.
"(c) (1) The Secretary is authorized to pay not to exceed 90 per
(b) No contract shall be entered into under this title with a con-
centum of the cost of any project which is the subject of an agreement
tractor who is, or whose employees are, under State law, exempted from
entered into under subsection (b), except that the Secretary is author-
operation of the State workmen's compensation law, generally appli-
ized to pay all of the costs of any such project which is (A) an emer-
cable to employees, unless the contractor shall undertake to provide
gency or disaster project, or (B) a project located in an economically
either through insurance by a recognized carrier, or by self-insurance,
depressed area, as determined by the Secretary in consultation with
the Secretary of Commerce and the Director of the Community Serv-
as authorized by State law, that the persons employed under the con-
tract, shall enjoy workmen's compensation coverage equal to that pro-
ices Administration.
(2) The non-Federal share shall be in cash or in kind. In determin-
vided by law for covered employment.
ing the amount of the non-Federal share, the Secretary is authorized
"INTERAGENCY COOPERATION
to attribute fair market value to services and facilities contributed
from non-Federal sources.
"Sec. 905. (a) The Secretary shall consult with, and obtain the writ- 42 USC 3056c.
ten views of, the Commissioner of the Administration on Aging prior
"ADMINISTRATION
to the establishment of rules or the establishment of general policy in
the administration of this title.
42 USC 3056a.
"SEC. 903. (a) In order to effectively carry out the provisions of this
(b) The Secretary shall consult and cooperate with the Director of
title, the Secretary shall, through the Commissioner of the Adminis-
the Community Services Administration, the Secretary of Health,
tration on Aging, consult with the State agency on aging designated
Education, and Welfare, and the heads of other Federal agencies carry-
42 USC 3024.
under section 304(a) (1) and the appropriate area agencies on aging
ing out related programs, in order to achieve optimal coordination with
established under section (a) (2) with regard to-
such other programs. In carrying out the provisions of this section, the
"(1) the localities in which community service projects of the
Secretary shall promote programs or projects of a similar nature. Each
type authorized by this title are most needed;
(2) consideration of the employment situations and the type
Federal agency shall cooperate with the Secretary in disseminating
information relating to the availability of assistance under this title
of skills possessed by available local individuals who are eligible
and in promoting the identification and interests of individuals eligible
to participate: and
(3) potential projects and the number and percentage of
for employment in projects assisted under this title.
eligible individuals in the local population.
"EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION OF ASSISTANCE
(b) If the Secretary determines that to do SO would increase job
opportunities available to individuals under this title, the Secretary is
"SEC. 906. (a) (1) From sums appropriated under this title for each 42 USC 3056d.
authorized to coordinate the program assisted under this title with
fiscal year, the Secretary shall first reserve such sums as may be neces-
programs authorized under the Emergency Jobs and Unemployment
sary for national grants or contracts with public agencies and public
29 USC 961
Assistance Act of 1974, the Comprehensive Employment and Training
or private nonprofit organizations to maintain the level of activities
note.
Act of 1973, the Community Services Act of 1974, and the Emergency
carried on under such grants or contracts at least at the level of such
29 USC 801
Employment Act of 1971. Appropriations under this Act may not be
activities supported under this title and under any other provision of
note.
used to carry out any program under the Emergency Jobs and Unem-
Federal law relating to community service employment programs for
42 USC 2701
ployment Assistance Act of 1974, the Comprehensive Employment and
older Americans in the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975. Preference in
note.
Training Act of 1973, the Community Services Act of 1974, or the
awarding such grants or contracts shall be given to national organiza-
42 USC 4871
Emergency Employment Act of 1971.
tions of proven ability in providing employment services to older per-
note.
(c) In carrying out the provisions of this title, the Secretary is
sons under this program and similar programs. The Secretary, in
authorized to use, with their consent, the services, equipment, per-
awarding grants and contracts under this section, shall, to the extent
sonnel, and facilities of Federal and other agencies with or without
feasible, assure an equitable distribution of activities under such grants
reimbursement, and on a similar basis to cooperate with other public
and contracts, in the aggregate, among the States, taking into account
and private agencies and instrumentalities in the use of services, equip-
the needs of underserved States.
ment, and facilities.
"(2) The Secretary shall allot for projects within each State the
(d) Payments under this title may be made in advance or by way of
remainder of the sums appropriated for any fiscal year under section
reimbursement and in such installments as the Secretary may
908 SO that each State will receive an amount which bears the same ratio
determine.
to such remainder as the product of the number of persons aged fifty-
five or over in the State and the allotment percentage of such State
89 STAT. 722
89 STAT. 723
Pub. Law 94-135
- 12 -
November 28, 1975
November 28, 1975
- 13 -
Pub. Law 94-135
bears to the sum of the corresponding product for all States, except that
"(2) the term 'eligible individual' means an individual who is
(A) no State shall be allotted less than one-half of 1 per centum of
fifty-five years old or over, who has a low income, and who has or
the remainder of the sums appropriated for the fiscal year for which
would have difficulty in securing employment, except that, pur-
the determination is made, or $100,000, whichever is greater, and
suant to regulations prescribed by the Secretary, any such indi-
(B) Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, and the Trust Ter-
vidual who is sixty years old or over shall have priority for the
ritory of the Pacific Islands shall each be allotted an amount which is
work opportunities provided for under this title;
not less than one-fourth of 1 per centum of the remainder of the sums
"(3) the term 'community service' means social, health, welfare,
appropriated for the fiscal year for which the determination is made,
and educational services, legal and other counseling services and
"State. "
or $50,000, whichever is greater. For the purpose of the exception con-
assistance, including tax counseling and assistance and financial
tained in this paragraph the term 'State' does not include Guam,
counseling, and library, recreational, and other similar services;
American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, and the Trust Territory of the
conservation, maintenance, or restoration of natural resources;
Pacific Islands.
community betterment or beautification; antipollution and
(3) For the purpose of this subsection-
environmental quality efforts; economic development; and such
"(A) the allotment percentage of each State shall be 100 per
other services essential and necessary to the community as the
centum less that percentage which bears the same ratio to 50
Secretary, by regulation, may prescribe; and
per centum as the per capita income of such State bears to the per
"(4) the term 'program' means the older American community
capita income of the United States, except that (i) the allotment
percentage shall in no case be more than 75 per centum or less than
service employment program established under this title.
331/3 per centum, and (ii) the allotment percentage for the District
"AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, American
Samoa, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands shall be
"SEC. 908. There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out
42 USC 3056f.
75 per centum;
this title $100,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976,
(B) the number of persons aged fifty-five or over in any State
$37,500,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending Septem-
and in all States, and the per capita income in any State and in
ber 30, 1976, $150,000,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30,
all States, shall be determined by the Secretary on the basis of
1977. and $200,000,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1978.".
the most satisfactory data available to him; and
(b) Title IX of the Older Americans Comprehensive Services
"(C) for the purpose of determining the allotment percentage,
Amendments of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 3061 et seq.) is hereby repealed.
Repeal.
the term 'United States' means the fifty States and the District of
(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, sums appro-
Columbia.
42 USC 3061-
priated to carry out title IX of the Older Americans Comprehensive
3067.
"(b) The amount allotted for projects within any State under sub-
Services Amendments of 1973 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975,
29 USC 871
section (a) for any fiscal year which the Secretary determines will
may be used for older American community service employment proj-
note.
not be required for such year shall be reallotted, from time to time and
ects conducted as part of the Operation Mainstream program under
on such dates during such year as the Secretary may fix, to projects
title III of the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act of 1973.
29 USC 871.
within other States in proportion to the original allotments to projects
within such States under subsection (a) for such year, but with such
TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS
proportionate amount for any of such other States being reduced to
the extent it exceeds the sum the Secretary estimates that projects
SEC. 114. (a) Section 102(1) of the Act (42 U.S.C. is
within such State need and will be able to use for such year; and the
amended by striking out the semicolon at the end thereof and inserting
total of such reductions shall be similarly reallotted among the States
in lieu thereof a period.
whose proportionate amounts were not so reduced. Any amount
(b) The heading for section 202 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3012) is
reallotted to a State under this subsection during a year shall be deemed
amended by striking out "OFFICE" and inserting in lieu thereof
part of its allotment under subsection (a) for such year.
"ADMINISTRATION".
(c) The amount apportioned for projects within each State under
(c) Section (8) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3022(a) (8)) is
42 USC 3012.
subsection (a) shall be apportioned among areas within each such State
amended by striking out "and" at the end thereof.
in an equitable manner, taking into consideration (1) the proportion
(d) Section 303(b) (1) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3023 (1)) is
which eligible individuals in each such area bears to the total number
amended by striking out "authorized to be".
of such individuals, respectively, in that State, and (2) the relative
(e) The last sentence of section 305 (e) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3025
distribution of such individuals residing in rural and urban areas
(e)) is amended by striking out "Commissioners" and inserting in
within the State.
lieu thereof "Commissioner's".
"DEFINITIONS
(f) Section 432(b) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3037a is amended by
striking out "part" and inserting in lieu thereof "title".
42 USC 3056e.
"SEC. 907. As used in this title-
(g) The last sentence of section 507(b) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3041f
"(1) the term 'State' means any of the several States of the
(b)) is amended by striking out "or" the second place it appears
United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin
therein and inserting in lieu thereof "of".
Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Trust Territory of the
(h) The heading for section 703 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045b) is
Pacific Islands;
amended by striking out "ALLOTTMENT" and inserting in lieu thereof
"ALLOTMENT".
89 STAT. 724
89 STAT. 725
November 28, 1975
- 15
Pub. Law 94-135
Pub. Law 94-135
- 14
November 28, 1975
VOCATIONAL EDUCATION ACT OF 1963
(i) The last sentence of section 703 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045b
(c)) is amended by striking out "in kind" and inserting in lieu thereof
SEC. 204. Section 161 (d) of the Vocational Education Act of 1963 (20
"in-kind".
U.S.C. 1341 is amended by inserting "(1)" immediately before
(j) The last sentence of section 703(d) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045b
"At least one-third" and by adding at the end thereof the following
(d)) is amended by striking out "in kind" and inserting in lieu thereof
new paragraph:
"in-kind".
"(2) From funds made available under this section, special consid-
(k) Section (a) (2) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045d (a) (2)) is
eration shall be given to special consumer and homemaking programs
amended by striking out "sets" and inserting in lieu thereof "set".
for persons aged sixty or older who are in need of services provided
(1) Section 705 (a) (2) (B) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045d(a) (2) (B))
by such programs, as determined by the Commissioner. Such programs
is amended by striking out "cost, for the fiscal year ending June 30,
shall be designed to assist such persons to live independently in their
1973," and all that follows through "1973, funds" and inserting in
own homes and to alleviate the adverse effects of loneliness and
lieu thereof "cost. Funds".
isolation.".
(m) Section (5) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045d (a) (5)) is
DOMESTIC VOLUNTEER SERVICE ACT OF 1973
amended by striking out "areas" and inserting in lieu thereof "area".
(n) The last sentence of section 705 (c) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045d
SEC. 205. (a) (1) Section 502 of the Domestic Volunteer Service
(c)) is amended by inserting a comma immediately after "failure"
Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 5082(a)), hereinafter in this section referred
the first place it appears therein, and such sentence is further amended
to as the "Act", is amended-
by striking out "part" and inserting in lieu thereof "title".
(A) by striking out "and" immediately after "1974,"; and
(o) Section 706(a) (5) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045e(a) (5)) is
(B) by inserting immediately after "respectively," the follow-
amended by inserting a comma immediately after "requirements" the
ing: "$6,000,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and end-
second place it appears therein.
ing September 30, 1976, and $22,000,000 for each of the fiscal
(p) Section 706(a) (8) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 3045e (8)) is
years ending September 30, 1977, and September 30, 1978,".
amended by inserting a comma immediately after "program" the
(2) Section 502(b) (1) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 5082(b) (1)) is
second place it appears therein.
amended-
(A) by striking out "and" immediately after "1974," each place
TITLE II-AMENDMENTS TO OTHER LAWS
it appears therein;
(B) by inserting immediately after "respectively," the first
place it appears therein the following: $10,750,000 for the period
HIGHER EDUCATION ACT OF 1965
beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, and
SEC. 201. Section 110(b) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
$43,000,000 for each of the fiscal years ending September 30, 1977,
U.S.C. 1008a (b)) is amended by striking out "July 1, 1977" and
and September 30, 1978,";
inserting in lieu thereof "October 1, 1978", by striking out "and"
(C) by inserting immediately after "respectively," the second
immediately after "1973," and inserting in lieu thereof "for", and by
place it appears therein the following: "$8,750,000 for the period
inserting immediately before the period at the end thereof the follow-
beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, and
ing: and for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending Septem-
$35,000,000 for each of the fiscal years ending September 30, 1977,
ber 30, 1976".
and September 30, 1978,"; and
ADULT EDUCATION ACT
(D) by inserting immediately after "respectively," the third
place it appears therein the following: "$2,000,000 for the period
SEC. 202. Section 310(b) of the Adult Education Act (20 U.S.C.
beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, and
1208a (b)) is amended by striking out "July 1, 1975" and inserting
$8,000,000 for each of the fiscal years ending September 30, 1977,
in lieu thereof "October 1, 1978", by striking out "and" immediately
and September 30, 1978,".
after "1973," and inserting in lieu thereof "for", and by inserting
(b) (1) The first sentence of section 211 (a) of the Act (42 U.S.C.
immediately before the period at the end thereof the following: and
5011(a)) is amended-
for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976".
(A) by striking out "volunteers" the first and third places it
appears therein and inserting in lieu thereof "individuals"; and
OLDER AMERICANS COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES AMENDMENTS OF 1973
(B) by striking out "serve as volunteers to".
(2) Section (b) of the Act (42 U.S.C. is amended by
SEC. 203. Section 805 of the Older Americans Comprehensive Serv-
striking out "volunteers" and inserting in lieu thereof "individuals".
ices Amendments of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 2809 note) is amended-
(3) Section 212(a) (1) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 5012(a) (1)) is
(1) by striking out "fiscal year" the second place it appears
amended by striking out "volunteers" and inserting in lieu thereof
therein and inserting in lieu thereof "five fiscal years and the
"individuals".
period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976";
(c) (1) In order to provide maximum coordination between pro- 42 USC 5001
and
grams carried out under title III and title VII of the Older Americans
note.
(2) by striking out "Economic Opportunity Act of 1964" and
Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3021 et seq.; 42 U.S.C. 3045 et seq.) and national
42 USC 2701
inserting in lieu thereof "Community Services Act of 1974".
older American volunteer programs carried out under title II of the
note.
Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 5001 et seq.), and
89 STAT. 726
89 STAT. 727
Pub. Law 94-135
- 16 -
November 28, 1975
November 28, 1975
- 17 -
Pub. Law 94-135
in order to enhance the effectiveness of the support provided to such
REGULATIONS
national older American volunteer programs by the ACTION Agency,
SEC. 304. (a) (1) Not later than one year after the transmission of 42 USC 6103.
the Director of the ACTION Agency shall designate an aging resource
the report required by section 307(b), or two and one-half years after
specialist with respect to programs carried out in each State under title
the date of the enactment of this Act, whichever occurs first, the
42 USC 5001.
II of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973.
Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare shall publish in the
(2) (A) Each aging resource specialist designated under paragraph
Federal Register proposed general regulations to carry out the provi-
(1) shall be qualified to serve in such capacity by appropriate
sions of section 303.
experience and training, and shall be stationed in a State office of
(2) (A) The Secretary shall not publish such proposed general
the ACTION Agency.
regulations until the expiration of a period comprised of-
(B) The primary responsibility of each aging resource specialist
(i) the forty-five day period specified in section 307 (e) ; and
shall be-
(ii) an additional forty-five day period, immediately following
(i) to support programs carried out under title II of the Domes-
the period described in clause (i), during which any committee of
tic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 in any State or other jurisdiction
the Congress having jurisdiction over the subject matter involved
served by the State office involved; and
may conduct hearings with respect to the report which the Com-
(ii) to seek to coordinate such programs with programs carried
mission is required to transmit under section 307 (d), and with
out under title III and title VII of the Older Americans Act of
respect to the comments and recommendations submitted by Fed-
42 USC 3021,
1965 in any such State or other jurisdiction.
eral departments and agencies under section 307 (e).
3045.
(3) For purposes of this subsection-
(B) The forty-five day period specified in subparagraph (A) (ii)
Definitions.
(A) the term "ACTION Agency" means the ACTION Agency
shall include only days during which both Houses of the Congress
established by section 401 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 5041)
are in session.
(B) the term "primary responsibility" means the devotion of
(3) Not later than ninety days after the Secretary publishes pro-
Publication
more than one-half of regular working hours to the performance
posed regulations under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall publish
in Federal
of duties described in paragraph (2) (B) and
in the Federal Register final general regulations to carry out the
Register.
(C) the term "State" means the several States, the District of
provisions of section 303, after taking into consideration any com-
Columbia, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam, American
ments received by the Secretary with respect to the regulations
Samoa, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
proposed under paragraph (1).
(4) Not later than ninety days after the Secretary publishes final
Publication
AMENDMENT TO RESEARCH ON AGING ACT OF 1974
general regulations under paragraph (a) (3), the head of each Fed-
in Federal
SEC. 206. Section 464 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C.
eral department or agency which extends Federal financial assist-
Register.
289k-5) is amended by striking out "one year" and inserting in lieu
ance to any program or activity by way of grant, entitlement, loan,
thereof "two years".
or contract other than a contract of insurance or guaranty, shall
transmit to the Secretary and publish in the Federal Register pro-
TITLE ILI-PROHIBITION OF DISCRIMINATION BASED
posed regulations to carry out the provisions of section 303 and to
Age
provide appropriate investigative, conciliation, and enforcement pro-
Discrimination
ON AGE
cedures. Such regulations shall be consistent with the final general
Act of
regulations issued by the Secretary.
1975.
SHORT TITLE
(5) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, no regula-
SEC. 301. The provisions of this title may be cited as the "Age
tions issued pursuant to this section shall be effective before Janu-
42 USC 6101
Discrimination Act of 1975".
ary 1, 1979.
note.
(b) (1) It shall not be a violation of any provision of this title,
or of any regulation issued under this title, for any person to take
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
any action otherwise prohibited by the provisions of section 303 if,
42 USC 6101,
SEC. 302. It is the purpose of this title to prohibit unreasonable dis-
in the program or activity involved-
crimination on the basis of age in programs or activities receiving
(A) such action reasonably takes into account age as a factor
Federal financial assistance, including programs or activities receiving
necessary to the normal operation or the achievement of any stat-
funds under the State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act of 1972 (31
utory obiective of such program or activity: or
U.S.C. 1221 et seq.).
(B) the differentiation made by such action is based upon rea-
sonable factors other than age.
PROHIBITION OF DISCRIMINATION
(2) The provisions of this title shall not apply to any program or
activity established under authority of any law which (A) provides
42 USC 6102.
SEC. 303. Pursuant to regulations prescribed under section 304, and
any benefits or assistance to persons based upon the age of such per-
except as provided by section 304(b) and section (c), no person in
sons; or (B) establishes criteria for participation in age-related terms
the United States shall, on the basis of age, be excluded from partici-
or describes intended beneficiaries or target groups in such terms.
pation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination
(c) (1) Except with respect to anv program or activity receiving
under, any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.
Federal financial assistance for public service employment under the
Comprehensive Employment and Training Act of 1974 (29 U.S.C.
89 STAT. 728
801, et seq.), as amended, nothing in this title shall be construed to
89 STAT. 729
November 28, 1975
- 19 -
Pub. Law 94-135
Pub. Law 94-135
- 18 -
November 28, 1975
STUDY OF DISCRIMINATION BASED ON AGE
authorize action under this title by any Federal department or agency
with respect to any employment practice of any employer, employ-
SEC. 307. (a) The Commission on Civil Rights shall (1) undertake 42 USC 6106.
ment agency, or labor organization, or with respect to any labor-man-
a study of unreasonable discrimination based on age in programs and
agement joint apprenticeship training program.
activities receiving Federal financial assistance; and (2) identify
(2) Nothing in this title shall be construed to amend or modify the
with particularity any such federally assisted program or activity in
Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (29 U.S.C. 621-634),
which there is found evidence of persons who are otherwise qualified
as amended, or to affect the rights or responsibilities of any person or
being, on the basis of age, excluded from participation in, denied the
party pursuant to such Act.
benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under such program or
activity.
ENFORCEMENT
(b) As part of the study required by this section, the Commission Hearings.
shall conduct public hearings to elicit the views of interested parties,
42 USC 6104.
SEC. 305. (a) The head of any Federal department or agency who
including Federal departments and agencies, on issues relating to age
prescribes regulations under section 304 may seek to achieve com-
discrimination in programs and activities receiving Federal financial
pliance with any such regulation-
assistance, and particularly with respect to the reasonableness of distin-
(1) by terminating, or refusing to grant or to continue, assist-
guishing, on the basis of age, among potential participants in, or
ance under the program or activity involved to any recipient with
beneficiaries of, specific federally assisted programs.
respect to whom there has been an express finding on the record,
(c) The Commission is authorized to obtain, through grant or
after reasonable notice and opportunity for hearing, of a failure
contract, analyses, research and studies by independent experts of
to comply with any such regulation; or
issues relating to age discrimination and to publish the results thereof.
(2) by any other means authorized by law.
For purposes of the study required by this section, the Commission
(b) Any termination of, or refusal to grant or to continue, assist-
may accept and utilize the services of voluntary or uncompensated
ance under subsection (a) (1) shall be limited to the particular political
personnel, without regard to the provisions of section 105(b) of the
entity or other recipient with respect to which a finding has been made
Civil Rights Act of 1957 (42 U.S.C. 1975d (b)).
under subsection (a) (1). Any such termination or refusal shall be
(d) Not later than eighteen months after the date of the enact-
Report to
limited in its effect to the particular program or activity, or part of
ment of this Act, the Commission shall transmit a report of its
President
such program or activity, with respect to which such finding has been
findings and its recommendations for statutory changes (if any) and
and Congress.
made. No such termination or refusal shall be based in whole or in
administrative action, including suggested general regulations, to the
part on any finding with respect to any program or activity which does
Congress and to the President and shall provide a copy of its report
not receive Federal financial assistance.
to the head of each Federal department and agency with respect to
(c) No action may be taken under subsection (a) until the head of
which the Commission makes findings or recommendations.
the Federal department or agency involved has advised the appro-
(e) Not later than forty-five working days after receiving a copy
Reports to
priate person of the failure to comply with the regulation involved and
of the report required by subsection (d), each Federal department or
President
has determined that compliance cannot be secured by voluntary means.
agency with respect to which the Commission makes findings or rec-
and con-
Report to
(d) In the case of any action taken under subsection (a), the head
ommendations shall submit its comments and recommendations regard-
gressional
congressional
of the Federal department or agency involved shall transmit a written
ing such report to the President and to the Committee on Labor and
committees.
committees.
report of the circumstances and grounds of such action to the com-
Public Welfare of the Senate and the Committee on Education and
mittees of the House of Representatives and the Senate having legis-
Labor of the House of Representatives.
lative jurisdiction over the program or activity involved. No such
(f) The head of each Federal department or agency shall cooperate
action shall take effect until thirty days after the transmission of any
in all respects with the Commission with respect to the study required
such report.
by subsection (a), and shall provide to the Commission such data,
(e) The provisions of this section shall be the exclusive remedy for
reports, and documents in connection with the subject matter of such
the enforcement of the provisions of this title.
study as the Commission may request.
JUDICIAL REVIEW
necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.
(g) There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be Appropriation authorization.
42 USC 6105.
SEC. 306. (a) Any action by any Federal department or agency
DEFINITIONS
under section 305 shall be subject to such judicial review as may other-
wise be provided by law for similar action taken by any such depart-
SEC. 308. For purposes of this title-
42 USC 6107.
ment or agency on other grounds.
(1) the term "Commission" means the Commission on Civil
(b) In the case of any action by any Federal department or agency
Rights;
under section 305 which is not otherwise subject to judicial review,
(2) the term "Secretary" means the Secretary of Health, Edu-
any person aggrieved (including any State or political subdivision
cation, and Welfare; and
thereof and any agency of either) may obtain judicial review of such
action in accordance with the provisions of chapter 7 of title 5, United
89 STAT. 731
5 USC 701
States Code. For purposes of this subsection, any such action shall
et seq.
not be considered committed to unreviewable agency discretion within
the meaning of section 701 (a) (2) of such title.
89 STAT. 730
Pub. Law 94-135
- 20 -
November 28, 1975
(3) the term "Federal department or agency" means any
agency as defined in section 551 of title 5, United States Code, and
includes the United States Postal Service and the Postal Rate
Commission.
Approved November 28, 1975.
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
HOUSE REPORTS: No. 94-67 (Comm. on Education and Labor) and
No. 94-670 (Comm. of Conference).
SENATE REPORT No. 94-255 accompanying S. 1425 (Comm. on
Labor and Public Welfare).
CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 121 (1975):
Apr. 8, considered and passed House.
June 26, considered and passed Senate, amended, in lieu of
S. 1425.
Nov. 19, House agreed to conference report.
Nov. 20, Senate agreed to conference report.
WEEKLY COMPILATION OF PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS, Vol. 11, No. 48:
Nov. 28, Presidential statement.
89 STAT. 732
senior cityzens
September 24, 1975
Dear Pauline Bradley:
Thank you for writing to invite the Fords to visit the Mile High
Guest Home in Denver in order to know how you have been treated.
You were thoughtful to share your saddening circumstances with
the First Family.
Although the demands of the Fords' official schedules regrettably
prevent them the pleasure of meetings with the many people who
so kindly ask, you might like to contact the Colorado Congress
of Senior Organizations which has volunteers to help senior citizens
throughout the state with Social Security and employment problems
and with health assistance. The address is 910 16th Street, Denver
80202, and the telephone is 892-5672.
With warm wishes,
Sincerely,
Marba S. Perrott
Director of Correspondence for Mrs. Ford
Pauline Bradley
965 Penn Street
Denver, Colorado 80203
AH
FORD LIBRARY
Colorado Core new of senior Orgs.
910 16 th St
Denver 80202
WY
Mrs. Nitia Director Pachak
Utah
N,SD
Montana
303-892-5672
funded by com. SVCS Aam/col/ oraef Commit on aging
advicacy group on elderly persons
w/ ACTION & colo In of SVCS for agree
3 gro old
Adm on aging
senior cityin MR throughout state
SS problems
emp probs
health assist
sov. Rechard
US Lamb House select comm. on aging
Jack Brown
John Hutchison 254-5400
Community Services Administration
DC Office (
Denver
or Mr. Czapiewski ("Chappy)
303-837-4767
GENALE R. FORD
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 1, 1975
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
OLDER AMERICANS MONTH, 1975
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
There is increasing awareness throughout America of
the growing national resource represented by our older
citizens. Their collective knowledge, experience, and
energy can contribute significantly to raising the quality
of life for all Americans.
As we approach our national Bicentennial, it is
important to take special notice of older Americans. They
have made and are making significant contributions to our
Nation. It is fitting that we not lose sight of the con-
tinuing contributions this generation can make nor of our
commitment as a society to meet their needs.
The first White House Conference on Aging in 1961
produced a Senior Citizens Charter of Rights and Obligations.
The second White House Conference on Aging, held in 1971,
broadened that recognition and deepened our commitment to
providing opportunities to our older citizens for maintenance
of income and health and for self-realization and continuing
usefulness. It is appropriate to update the Charter in the
light of growing knowledge and recognition of the needs and
abilities of our older citizens. People of all ages should
join in the development of a Declaration of Rights and
Obligations of Older Persons so that it can be proclaimed
as part of our Bicentennial celebration.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GERALD R. FORD, President of the
United States of America, do hereby designate the month
of May 1975 as Older Americans Month. I urge everyone to
participate in the efforts to achieve the goal of proclaim-
ing a new Declaration of Rights and Obligations for Older
Persons, which can become a rallying point for our Nation
during the Bicentennial year of 1976 and a guide to action
during the years ahead.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
first
day of May in the year of our Lord nineteen
hundred seventy-five, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the one hundred ninety-ninth.
GERALD R. FORD
GERAL R. FORD LISKANY
# # # #
Senior Cityer
medicare
August 12, 1975
Dear Ann Hamman:
Thank you for writing to Mrs. Ford to express
disappointment and inquire the reason that Pap
smear tests are not eligible deductions under
Medicare. You were thoughtful to share your
concern with the First Lady.
in checking with the Social Security Administration,
we found that a routine medical examination does
not qualify as a reimbursable expense unless there
is a reason to believe that it is related to a disease.
Tests not prompted by suspicious symptoms would
fall into this category.
We can appreciate your desire to practice pre-
ventive medicine and send very best wishes for
your good health and happiness.
With Mrs. Ford's gratitude for your kind regard,
Sincerely,
Marba S. Perrott
Director of Correspondence
For Mrs. Ford
Ann Hamman
Twin Rock Road
Florissant, Colorado 80816
AH
GERALD FOND
senior algo
August 5, 1975
Dear Mr. Sable:
Your friend, James W. McCarthy, has very
kindly shared your drawing of the President
and Mrs. Ford as well as a photograph of you
watering your garden. The Fords were honored
by your selection of them as your subject and
were delighted to learn of your enjoyment of
life through gardening and drawing. They
couldn't help wondering how your plants have
grown since the photograph was taken!
Your support means a great deal to the Fords,
who join in sending gratitude and warm wishes
for health and happiness to you.
We hope you will like having the enclosed
photograph of the First Family who are from
left to right: Jack, Steve, Mrs. Ford, the
President, Susan, Gayle (Mike's wife), Mike.
Sincerely,
Marba S. Perrott
Director of Correspondence for Mrs. Ford
Mr. Fred Sable
Arroyo Vista Convalescent Center
3022 45th Street
San Diego, California 92105
AH
ENCLOSE FF LITHO, B & W GF PHOTO
FORD 4. DEPAIL LIBRARY
senior city
July 15, 1975
Dear Mrs. Shaffer:
Thank you very much for writing of your lessons
on how to treat the blind, your garden plans,
and your creative handwork. You were thoughtful
to let Mrs. Ford know of your activities.
As much as the First Lady hopes that you will
find enjoyable and rewarding projects, she is
regrettably unable to take advantage of your
talents. However, you have her warm wishes.
With appreciation,
Sincerely,
Marba S. Perrott
Director of Correspondence
For Mrs. Ford
Mrs. Mary Caroline Shaffer
Box 319
Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania
AH
BEFORE R. FORD LIBRARY
federal employeee anminitants
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OCTOBER 1, 1976
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
I am signing H.R. 14238, Appropriations for the
Legislative Branch for Fiscal Year 1977, with reluctance.
Last year, the Congress enacted Public Law 94-82 which,
after more than six years, allowed annual pay adjustments for
all Federal employees. Before that time pay raises for
officials at the top levels of the Federal Government had
been frozen. As annual comparability increases came due each
October, more and more Federal employees bumped up against
the fixed ceiling, preventing them from receiving the annual
comparability increase. Soon, many employees in the upper
Civil Service grades were receiving exactly the same salary
as policy-making officials.
Under these conditions, it became increasingly difficult
to recruit top-flight people into the Federal Government and
it became even more difficult to retain those who were already
there. With salaries significantly higher in the private
sector, many dedicated individuals are deterred from entering
or remaining in the public service. Chief Justice Burger has
spoken often -- forthrightly and eloquently -- on the identical
problems which plague the Federal Judiciary.
While last year's law did not solve these problems by any
means, it did give some small relief to Federal officials who
had not had a pay raise since 1968, despite large increases in
the cost of living.
In the bill I am signing today, Congress has not only
withdrawn the small step they took last year to help alleviate
the problems of Federal pay, but they have created additional
chaos.
If the Congress had frozen only the pay of its members
in this bill, I would sign without hesitation.
Instead, in this election year, the Congress chose not
only to stop its own pay raises but those of the Judiciary
and top-level Executive Branch employees as well.
Further, the Congress has created havoc in the pay levels
throughout the Federal Government. The Congress wrote language
in this bill which enables employees in Civil Service grades
16, 17, and 18, and some at grade 15, to be paid higher
salaries than the Commissioner of Education, the Commissioner
of Food and Drugs, the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, the
Administrator of the Farmers Home Administration, the Director
of the National Park Service, and the Archivist of the
United States. Many other officials will receive lower
FORD
salaries than their subordinates.
The Congress has made a bad situation worse.
I seriously considered returning this bill to the Congress
without my approval.
more
(OVER)
2
However, I am signing this bill because the Congress will
have an opportunity to remedy the situation early next year
when I present my recommendations after reviewing the proposals
of the Quadrennial Commission on Executive, Legislative, and
Judiciary Salaries.
I am also signing this bill because the Congress did take
action on an Administration initiative of some importance --
the elimination of the so-called 1% kicker from increases pro-
vided Federal annuitants. The 1% kicker was originally intended
to compensate for the delay in providing cost-of-living
adjustments. However, as a result of compounding, there has
been overcompensation. Since the 1% add-on was adopted, the
cost of living has increased 58% while the 1% kicker adjust-
ments have totalled 71%. Although the new cost-of-living
adjustment system which this legislation establishes does
not conform entirely to my recommendations, it nevertheless
should maintain an appropriate balance between protecting
Federal annuitants from inflation, while preserving the fiscal
soundness of Federal retirement programs.
In signing this bill I express not only my chagrin but
also my deep regret that so many dedicated men and women of
the Judiciary and the Executive Branch will have their pay
frozen by the actions of this Congress. We must all hope
and expect that the next Congress will act more responsibly.
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8-A
MRS. O'NEILL SIGNED IN RE THE ELDERLY
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
September 30, 1976
Dear,
Thank you for your letter to Mrs. Ford expressing concern for the elderly.
Please know that the President and his advisors have worked diligently to
improve the quality of life for our older citizens.
In his 1976 State of the Union Address, the President proposed that Social
Security Benefits be expanded by the full cost-of-living increase. This
benefit became effective on July 1 of this year. Also, to protect the
integrity of the Social Security Trust Fund, a fund that is being rapidly
depleted, the President proposed a small increase would become effective
January 1, 1977 and would cost workers a maximum of $1 a week.
The President has also proposed a catastrophic health insurance program to
limit the out-of-pocket amount the elderly people must pay for medical and
physician's fees each year.
In November 1975 the President signed Amendments to the Older Americans Act
which is intended to deliver coordinated, comprehensive services and meals
to the elderly at the community level and to enable older persons to live
independent lives in their own homes.
Although all of the problems facing older people have not been resolved, the
President feels that a very substantial beginning has been made, and he has
pledged:
to do everything in my power to help our Nation
demonstrate by its deeds a deep concern for the
dignity and worth of our older persons. By doing
contributions that older persons can make to the
BEBALD
R.
so, our Nation will continue to benefit from the
STATE
strenghtening of our Nation.
LIBRARY
-2- -
The President and Mrs. Ford appreciate this opportunity to share their views
with you, and they send to you their best wishes and warmest regards.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Elizabeth M.O' Neill
Director of Correspondence
for Mrs. Ford
of FORD DERAIL LIBRARY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 5, 1976
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
OLDER AMERICANS MONTH, 1976
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Among our Nation's most precious natural resources
are the collective wisdom, experience and abilities of
our older citizens.
In recent years we have become more aware of the
important contributions older Americans have made in the
past and in the tremendous potential they hold for the
future. We are increasing our efforts to ensure that
they have the opportunity for independent living through
security of income, maintenance of health and continued
useful involvement in the life of our Nation.
America's older citizens have earned the gratitude
and respect of our society, as well as our recognition
of their worth and dignity. In this spirit, the Federal
Council on Aging has prepared the Bicentennial Charter for
Older Americans expressing their rights and obligations.
The job market and the area of volunteer services
provide some of the best opportunities to draw on the
strengths and talents of older Americans. Unfortunately,
older, and even middle-aged workers, are too often the
victims of myth and prejudice regarding their capabilities.
Our society needs the know-how, experience, judgment and
eagerness to serve that these citizens bring to the job.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GERALD R. FORD, President of the
United States of America, do hereby designate the month
of May, 1976, as Older Americans Month.
I urge all State and Area Agencies on Aging and
other private and public organizations that are related
to the field of aging to observe this month by arranging
public forums where the Bicentennial Charter for Older
Americans will be discussed and recommendations developed
for implementation.
I urge all organizations concerned with employment
to observe this month with ceremonies and programs de-
signed to increase employment opportunities for older
workers.
I urge all organizations engaged in the delivery of
services to persons in need to observe this month by in-
creased emphasis on efforts to recruit, train and place
older volunteers.
more
DEBAILS
2
And I urge all Americans to observe this month by
focusing on the achievements of older persons and supporting
programs to make the last days of life the best days for
increasing numbers of our older Americans.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
fifth
day of April in the year of our Lord
nineteen hundred seventy-six, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundredth.
GERALD R. FORD
#####
DEPARTMENT R. FORD LIBRARY
is = A
toual searnity
January 7, 1976
Dear Mrs. Krouch:
Thank you very much for writing to the Fords
to share your saddening situation regarding
health and finances. We were so sorry to
learn of your difficulties, and while the
President and First Lady are unable personally
to be of help, we were happy to check with the
Social Security Administration about possibilities
for additional federal assistance for you.
It is a pleasure to let you know that the Rose-
ville staff of the Social Security Administration
will soon be contacting you about applying for
benefits for which you might be eligible under
the new Supplemental Security Income program.
With warm good wishes,
Sincerely,
Marba S. Perrott
Director of Correspondence
For Mrs. Ford
Mrs. Amie Krouch
9060 Auburn Folsom Road, #48
Roseville, California 95678
AH
DEPART R. FORD LIBRARY
cc/incoming and outgoing to
Joe Michel
SSA, Room 4 A 6 Annex
Baltimore, Maryland 21235
TO SOCIAL SECURITY: A COPY OF YOUR REPLY IS REQUESTED
FOR MRS. FORD'S FILES
Joe michel 301-594-7200
Amy I. Crouch
diabled - gets benefits on our were
SS will contact her
to solicit a claim under S.S.I.
Cmr of 55 advises me that contact the
socevitle staff will you
SSA
F.F
Room 4A6 Amex
STATE R. FORD
Balt 21235
LIBRARY
aten; Joe Michal
August 5, 1976
Memo to:
Liz O'Neill
From:
Ann Haas
Should we have inquiries regarding many aspects of Social Security
benefits, Bill Murphy on the Domestic Council, ext. 2761, is very
helpful. He mentioned in specific the following areas:
1. retirement benefits
2. survivor's benefits
3. disability benefits
4. black lung benefits
the Department of Labor handles newer claims
(contact David Lissey, WH staff)
Social Security Administration handles older claims
5. Medicare
part A (hospitalization) and part B (medical)
6. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
he can provide info re payments centers (regional & district)
Also, he is sending over language to use when people express
concern about the Social Security fund "drying up. 11
GERMA R. FORD
Bf
semion citizen thank
February 19, 1976
Dear Mr. Phillips:
Thank you so much for your kindness in sharing
the picture which you drew from a magazine.
The President and I are honored that you included
us in your hobby of drawing and hope that you will
like having the enclosed photograph which is sent
with our warmest wishes.
Sincerely,
Mr. Frank Phillips
Claflin Hill Nursing Home
20 Claflin Street
Milford, Massachusetts 01757
AH
ENCLOSE INFORMAL BF/GF PHOTO
FORD in GERALD LIBRARY
immediate Release
T: maday, November 20, 1975
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary to Mrs. Ford
DUE
President and Mrs. Ford will host 2 Thanksgiving dinner tonight at
7:30 PM in the White House family dining room for tourteen senior citizens.
The dinner is being held one week prior to thanksgiving with the hope that
it will focus attention on the isolation of millions of senior citizens and
encourage people throughout the country to set an American tradition of
including older citizens in their thanksgiving plans.
Their guests will arrive at 7:00 PM and join the President and Mrs. Ford
in the Red Room prior to dinner being served at 7:30 PM. The menu includes:
Fresh Fruit Cup; Roast Stuffed Turkey with Cranberry Sauce; Candied Yams;
Acorn Squash; Brussel Sprouts: Homemade Rolls; Tossed Green Salad; and
Eggnog Pie.
Mrs. Ford is Honorary Patron of the organization "No Greater Love" who is
sponsoring a National Thanksgiying Day Salute to Older Americans.
Guest list attached.
# # # #
Press Pick-up at 7:20 PM for Photo Opportunity
FORD is LIBRARY GERALD
selected by:
Associated Catholic Charities
National Capital Union Presbytery
Washington Area Council of Churches
United Methodist Church
Episcopal Diocese of Washington Ministry to the
Jewish Council on the Aging
National Association of Arab Americans
National Council of Senior Citizens
American Association of Retired Persons
National Retired Teachers Association
Ages of Guests:
64 to 68
64
66
68
71
72 (2)
73 (2)
75
78
79
88
Places of birth:
VA
(3)
MD
(2)
New York City (2)
D.C. (2)
PA
Iowa
Mass.
Shershev, Poland
Number of Guests: 14 (9 women - 5 men) (There are 4 blacks
and 10 whites)
National Statistics:
5.8 million senior citizens who live
alone or without family)
4.5 million are women; I.3 million are men
3.5 females for every male
FORD & LIBRARY DERALD
OUND INFORMATION ON GUESTS FOR WHITE HOUSE DINNER FOR OLDER AME
ca Ack (72), now a resident of Washington, D.C., was born in
Spotsylvania County in Virginia. At present, she
serves as a D.C. Village Volunteer. In addition,
she is very active in various church affairs, in-
cluding the choir in which she sings.
Lillian Barsky (71) ! originally from New York City, has been active
in the Washington, D.C. Status of Women group
while living in this city. Lillian has also
traveled extensively to all parts of the world
with the Conference of Christians and Jews.
Recently, she has helped to research and plan
a tour book of Washington for senior citizens.
Ardoin Casgrain (78) / comes to Washington from Winchester, Massachuset
One of Ardoin's main concerns is the promotion O
the Foster Grandparents program in which he is
very active. In addition, he devotes a good dea
of his energies to his activities with the Ameri
Association of Retired Persons. In his spare ti
Ardoin writes poetry that reflects his personal
thoughts on aging.
Patricia Corbett (79) born in Dubuque, Iowa, is a former pediatric
nurse. Patricia's family history can be traced
back to America's earliest days. She is a de-
scendent of Josiah Bartlett, one of the original
signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Charlotte Fillmore (75), has enjoyed various vocations in her years
here in the Washington area. At one time,
she was employed as the housekeeper for Mrs.
McCaffrey, former secretary to Mrs. Mamie
Eisenhower. She is currently involved in the
Senior Aid Program. In addition, Charlotte
runs a Day Care Center for some forty-four
children ranging in age from two to four years
and in nationality from African to Oriental.
She is also, at the present time, a foster
parent to a five year old child who has lived
with Charlotte since the age of five weeks.
James Morris (73) was born in Tom's Creek, Virginia, but lived for
a long time in Knoxville. There, he employed his
abilities as a maintanence engineer for the
Tennessee Board of Education
DERALD
LIBRARY
elix Morrison (64), is a native of Washington, D.C. Felix devotes
much of his time writing these days. In addition
to his literary pursuits, he is interested in
photography. Felix is a rose fancier.
Corma Mowrey (68) / comes to us from West Virginia where she was a
teacher. From 1950-51 she served as the President
of the National Education Association. Corma holds
season's tickets to the Washington Redskins games.
A devoted sports fan, she particularly enjoys basebal
Raymond Parisi (72), originally from New York City, has enjoyed various
careers. At one time, Raymond was a hair stylist
at the famous Plaza Hotel in New York. He has also
been a professional dancer. In his time he has
worked out choreography with entertainer George
Raft's dancing partner.
George Robinson (73) was born in Carolina County in Virginia. George
is active in various affairs sponsored by the
Baptist church.
Onalee Swain (76) , worked for forty-one years at the Department of
Defense where she served as assistant to General
Medaris. Onalee assisted in the setting up of the
Guided Missile Base in Huntsville, Alabama. No
stranger to the White House, she has twice before
attended teas there during the Truman administration
both before and after the White House was refurbished
Betty Williams (88), who was born in Maryland, is the oldest of the
guests for the dinner. She comes from a background
of distinguished clerymen. Betty's father was the
Rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, the oldest
church in the District. Her husband was also an
Episcopal minister.
Frances Winthrop (77), came to the United States from Shershev, Poland.
After living in New York, Frances came to Washing
where she worked at the Department of Defense for
twenty-six years. She is very active in the affa
of the Jewish Community Center. In addition, Fra
is a Pioneer Woman, a Jewish group which sponsors
many fund-raising activities to benefit the peopl
of the community.
Wadia Ferris
(Information forthcoming)
BERALD
FROM
For immediate release
Friday, Sept. 25. 1975
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary to Mrs. Ford
Mrs. Ford will receive area homemakers registered for an
Identity and Homemaking" Conference this afternoon at 4 p.m.
at the White House. She will make brief remarks and be presented
with an award naming her an "outstanding homemaker.
The Conference is being held Sept. 26-27 in Washington, D.C.
It is being sponsored by the Georgetown University School for Summer
and Continuing Education and the Trans Century Foundation, an
organization that provides "research, operational programs, technical
assistance and consultative services that are needed in fields
related to self-reliance of women." About 200 women registered for
the conference.
The Conference hopes to provide "status and recognition to homemakers;
give women an opportunity to share their concerns and suggestions
with other women; explore the changing role of women in the home;
highlight the need for research into the problems facing women in the
home; review the public and private image of the homemaker; and
share the expertise and insight of professionals in assisting homemakers
with their problems.'
####
=1.
SEALD
FORD
LIBRARY
For immediate release
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 1976
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary to Mrs. Ford
Mrs. Ford will receive about 180 people attending the National
Conference of PTA National Legislative Conference at the White
House today at 3:30 p.m. The Conference is meeting in Washington
Feb. 18 and 19.
She will make welcoming remarks and receive an Honorary
National Life Membership in the Parent Teachers Association.
She will receive a certificate and a pin.
Participating in the presentation with Mrs. Ford will be Mrs. Carol
Kimmel, President of the National PTA, who will present Mrs.
Ford with the Life Membership; Mrs. Grace Baisinger, First
Vice President; Mrs. Madelyn Wills, National Secretary; Mrs. Jean
Dye, Legislative Coordinator; Mrs. Ann Kahn, chairman of the
Legislative Service Committee.
# # # #
R. FORD TIBRAH
November 19, 1976
Dear Miss collier,
Thank you very much for your recent letter to Mrs. Ford sharing
your thoughts as a member of the National Association of Retired
Federal Employees.
You may be interested to know that it is customery for the President
to send a message to an organization which expresses the desire for
such a greeting. while President Ford has sent messages to the
National Association of Retired Federal Employees, emphasizing its
dedication to our national interest, there was no message request
for the national meeting which you mentioned.
You may also be interested in knowing that on Octbber 26, 1974,
President Ford signed S. 628, a bill which NARFE supported, "to
eliminate the annuity reduction made, in order to provide a surviving
spouse with an annuity, during periods when the annuitant is not
married."
Because of your expressed interest in the one percent "add on" provided
federal annuitants, I am enclosing a press release on the subject.
with all good wishes,
Sincerely,
Mrs. Elizabeth M. O'Neill
Director of Correspondence
for Mrs. Ford
Miss Bessie M. collier
3812 Mississippi Street
apartment 12
San Diego, California 92104
EMO/AH/tkh
enclosure: PRESS RELEASE
OLDER AMERICANS
--Overview--
In a recent special message to Congress, President Ford
reaffirmed his commitment to meeting the needs of older
Americans, and to draw on their strengths in resolving
the problems of America. He asked Congress to:
"
help our nation demonstrate by its deeds a
deep concern for the dignity and worth of our older
persons. By doing so, our nation will continue
to benefit from the contributions that older
persons can make to the strengthening of their
nation.
President Ford noted that the single greatest threat
to the quality of life of older Americans is inflation.
His first economic priority has been to fight inflation --
and his programs have cut nearly in half the double digit
inflation experienced in 1974. But, he said,
"
the retired, living on fixed incomes, have been
particularly hard hit, and the progress we have
made
has not benefitted them enough."
To meet this problem, the President included in his
budget request for fiscal year 1977, a full cost of
living increase in Social Security benefits, that will help
bolster the purchasing power of 32 million older Americans.
Because the President is determined that the Social
Security system must remain fiscally sound, he has also
requested legislation to increase payroll taxes by three-
tenths of one percent for employees and employers so
that payments will not exceed revenues.
In a major new program to alleviate the burden of
catastrophic illness, President Ford has proposed:
*
Extending Medicare benefits by providing coverage
for unlimited days of hospital and skilled nursing
facility care for beneficiaries, and
Limiting the out-of-pocket expenses of beneficiaries
for covered services, to $500 per year for hospital
and skilled nursing services, and $250 per year
for physical and other non-institutional medical
services.
FORD a LIBRARY GERALD
SERAL FORD
Millions of older persons, he said, live in fear of
being stricken by an illness that will call for ex-
pensive hospital and medical care over a long period
of time.
"Most often they do not have the resources to
pay the bills We have been talking about this
problem for many years. We have it within our
power to act now so that today's older persons
will not be forced to live under this kind of a
shadow.
These actions are only the most recent of many taken by
the Ford Administration to help older Americans. Over
the last year and a half -- from the first days of his
Administration, President Ford:
*
Signed a $22.8 billion anti-recession tax-cut
bill that included payment of $50 each to some
34 million individuals receiving Social Security,
Railroad Retirement, and Supplemental Security
Income benefits -- many older persons were also
benefited by extension of unemployment compensation
benefits, tax rebates, and 1975 tax reductions.
Families caring for elderly persons were benefitted
by a liberalization of the tax deduction rules.
*
Signed into law the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act, providing new protections and
guarantees to 35 million persons covered by
private employee benefit plans, including pro-
vision for greater equity in tax treatment of
private retirement savings, and insuring that
participants do not lose benefits because of
restrictive eligibility provisions or because the
plan did not accumulate sufficient funds to meet
its obligations.
Signed the Housing and Community Development Act
of 1974, which, among other things, provides for
subsidized housing for low-income renters and
authorizes direct, low-interest loans for housing
for the elderly.
Signed into law Title XX of the Social Security
Act which provides 2.5 billion dollars to the states
for social services.
Under Title XX older persons will receive increased
services, planned and implemented by state and local
governments needs and services determined not in
Washington but at the local level, with the partici-
pation of the older Americans who will receive the
services. And lastly, under President Ford's
new Title XX proposal, states would no longer be
required to give the federal government money in order
to obtain federal monies in return.
President Ford has supported the concept of the Older
Americans Act since its inception in 1965. This past
November the President strengthened the Act when he signed
into law amendments creating new services and goals.
Under President Ford's Administration -- $272 million --
almost seven times the amount available three years earlier--
went to this program. Through the Administration on Aging,
created by this Act, a national network on aging composed
of state, area and nutrition agencies has been established.
As an example of what the Act does, nutrition agencies
serve older persons over 300,000 hot meals a day, five
days a week at 5,000 locations. This network helps older
people to:
Know what resources are available
Secure services enabling them to live in their own
homes.
Meet their needs for transportation
1.
FORD
Provide for the weatherization of their homes
Obtain legal services
Continue to be involved by serving in full-time,
part-time and volunteer positions serving the
community.
Cope with housing problems
Have a meaningful voice in setting priorities
for meeting their needs at the local level.
August 5, 1976,
Memo to:
Liz O'Neill
Greg
From:
Ann Haas
Should we have inquiries regarding many aspects of Social Security
benefits, Bill Murphy on the Domestic Council, ext. 2761, is very
helpful. He mentioned in specific the following areas:
1. retirement benefits
2. survivor's benefits
3. disability benefits
4. black lung benefits
the Department of Labor handles newer claims
(contact David Lissey, WH staff)
Social Security Administration handles older claims
5. Medicare
part A (hospitalization) and part B (medical)
6. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
he can provide info re payments centers (regional & district)
Also, he is sending over language to use when people express
concern about the Social Security fund "drying up. 11
BERALD
A. SOCIAL SECURITY
To assist in protecting the financial integrity of the Social
Security System, the President has proposed a slight increase
in the payroll tax effective in January, 1977.
BACKGROUND
The Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance trust funds
are paying out more in benefits than their current payroll
tax receipts. This is largely due to increased benefits
in the past few years and payroll tax receipts which have
lagged because of unemployment and slowed wage growth.
Unless action is taken to balance the income and outgo
of Social Security, the trust funds will be exhausted
in the early 1980's.
To prevent the rapid decline of the Social Security trust
funds over the next few years, the choices are either to
restrain increases in retirement and disability benefits
or to increase revenues.
DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM
The President has included a full cost of living increase
in Social Security benefits in his FY 1977 budget. To
assure the future financial stability of the Social Security
system, the President proposed, effective January 1, 1977,
a payroll tax increase of .3 percent each for employees
and employers of covered wages.
The current Social Security tax rate is 5.85% for each
employee and employer of covered wages. Under this
proposal, in 1977 the tax rate would be 6.15% on a
maximum wage base of $16,500. This increase will cost
workers with the maximum taxable income less than $1 a
week and will help stabilize the trust funds so that current
and future recipients can be assured of the benefits that
they have earned.
B. AID TO THE UNEMPLOYED
In the State of the Union Address the President spoke of
the importance of efforts to aid the unemployed. He
referred to two measures previously enacted by the Congress
in response to his request and to the Administration's
continued commitment to support programs which help the
unemployed and which provide training and employment
opportunities.
FORD GREATO LIBRARY
BACKGROUND
A temporary extension of unemployment insurance benefits from
a maximum of 39 weeks to a maximum of 52 weeks was enacted in
December, 1974. This measure also created a special unemploy-
ment assistance program for workers not covered under the
regular program to provide them a total of up to 26 weeks
of benefits.
semoi Citying
March 27, 1975
Dear Mrs. Jay:
Mrs. Ford has asked me to thank you for so
generously expressing approval and so thought-
fully letting her know of the activities of the
Senior Citizens Sunrise Band. The First Lady
enjoyed learning of your kindness to, among
others, those in Alleghany County Institutions
and Nursing Homes. She admires your ingen-
uity in raising money to carry out your selfless
program and is grateful for your special regard.
Although we are unable to recommend any
potential Washington beneficiary of your group's
talents, it is a pleasure to enclose literature
about the Nation's Capital which we hope will be
helpful should the Senior Citizens Sunrise Band
visit our city.
With appreciation and warm wishes for your
continued success,
Sincerely,
Nancy M. Howe
Special Assistant
To Mrs. Ford
Mrs. Marie Jay
Box 107
Ellerslie, Maryland 21529
GERALD FORD BRARY AH
ENCLOSE BROCHURES & ORDER FORM
OLDER AMERICANS
--Overview--
In a recent special message to Congress, President Ford
reaffirmed his commitment to meeting the needs of older
Americans, and to draw on their strengths in resolving
the problems of America. He asked Congress to:
"
help our nation demonstrate by its deeds a
deep concern for the dignity and worth of our older
persons. By doing so, our nation will continue
to benefit from the contributions that older
persons can make to the strengthening of their
nation. "
President Ford noted that the single greatest threat
to the quality of life of older Americans is inflation.
His first economic priority has been to fight inflation --
and his programs have cut nearly in half the double digit
inflation experienced in 1974. But, he said,
"
the retired, living on fixed incomes, have been
particularly hard hit, and the progress we have
made
has not benefitted them enough."
To meet this problem, the President included in his
budget request for fiscal year 1977, a full cost of
living increase in Social Security benefits, that will help
bolster the purchasing power of 32 million older Americans.
Because the President is determined that the Social
Security system must remain fiscally sound, he has also
requested legislation to increase payroll taxes by three-
tenths of one percent for employees and employers so
that payments will not exceed revenues.
In a major new program to alleviate the burden of
catastrophic illness, President Ford has proposed:
*
Extending Medicare benefits by providing coverage
for unlimited days of hospital and skilled nursing
facility care for beneficiaries, and
Limiting the out-of-pocket expenses of beneficiaries
for covered services, to $500 per year for hospital
and skilled nursing services, and $250 per year
for physical and other non-institutional medical
services.
GERAL
LIBRARY
Millions of older persons, he said, live in fear of
being stricken by an illness that will call for ex-
pensive hospital and medical care over a long period
of time.
"Most often they do not have the resources to
pay the bills
We have been talking about this
problem for many years. We have it within our
power to act now so that today's older persons
will not be forced to live under this kind of a
shadow.
These actions are only the most recent of many taken by
the Ford Administration to help older Americans. Over
the last year and a half -- from the first days of his
Administration, President Ford:
*
Signed a $22.8 billion anti-recession tax-cut
bill that included payment of $50 each to some
34 million individuals receiving Social Security,
Railroad Retirement, and Supplemental Security
Income benefits -- many older persons were also
benefited by extension of unemployment compensation
benefits, tax rebates, and 1975 tax reductions.
Families caring for elderly persons were benefitted
by a liberalization of the tax deduction rules.
Signed into law the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act, providing new protections and
guarantees to 35 million persons covered by
private employee benefit plans, including pro-
vision for greater equity in tax treatment of
private retirement savings, and insuring that
participants do not lose benefits because of
restrictive eligibility provisions or because the
plan did not accumulate sufficient funds to meet
its obligations.
*
Signed the Housing and Community Development Act
of 1974, which, among other things, provides for
subsidized housing for low-income renters and
authorizes direct, low-interest loans for housing
for the elderly.
DERALD
17/9/7
Signed into law Title XX of the Social Security
Act which provides 2.5 billion dollars to the states
for social services.
Under Title XX older persons will receive increased
services, planned and implemented by state and local
governments -- needs and services determined not in
Washington but at the local level, with the partici-
pation of the older Americans who will receive the
services. And lastly, under President Ford's
new Title XX proposal, states would no longer be
required to give the federal government money in order
to obtain federal monies in return.
President Ford has supported the concept of the Older
Americans Act since its inception in 1965. This past
November the President strengthened the Act when he signed
into law amendments creating new services and goals.
Under President Ford's Administration -- $272 million --
almost seven times the amount available three years earlier--
went to this program. Through the Administration on Aging,
created by this Act, a national network on aging composed
of state, area and nutrition agencies has been established.
As an example of what the Act does, nutrition agencies
serve older persons over 300,000 hot meals a day, five
days a week at 5,000 locations. This network helps older
people to:
Know what resources are available
Secure services enabling them to live in their own
homes.
Meet their needs for transportation
Provide for the weatherization of their homes.
Obtain legal services
Continue to be involved by serving in full-time,
part-time and volunteer positions serving the
community.
Cope with housing problems
Have a meaningful voice in setting priorities
in
FORD
for meeting their needs at the local level.
April 26, 1976
Dear Dr. waters,
Thank you for your letter of February 20 to Mrs. Ford concerning
the plight 06 the elderly in retirement homes and the formation
of a committee to look into the situation.
From the context of your letter, we presume that by "retirement
homes" you are referring to what are commonly called nursing
homes, which usually means extended or Long-term cave facilities,
but can also cover intermediate care and skilled nursing care.
You are certianly correct that there are a number of serious
problems relating to nursing homes in the United States today,
in terms 06 quality of care, availability, costs, staffing
and other aspects. I can assure you that thePPresident and
the Administration are deeply concerned over these and other
difficulties facing many older citizens. with a view toward
protecting the dignity of elderly institutionalized persona
and promoting a high quality 06 care and life in residential
care facilities, the Administration on Aging, under the
Department of Health, Education, and welfare, has instituted
a Nursing Home Ombudsman Program in nearly all States, Puerto
Rico, and the District of Columbia. Enclosed is some literature
describing this program and the demonstration projects that
preceded it, plus a directory of ombudsmen currently functioning
in the various States.
These ombudsmen operate through the designated agencies on aging
that have been established in each State, as a part of a nation-
wide network on aging. This network also includes agencies in
489 communities throughout the country. The agencies act as
advocates for the elderly, coordinate activities on their behalf,
and provide information on services and programs. On the national,
State, and local levels, advisory councils and committees that
work in conjunction with the network on aging have been set up to
actively promote the interests of older persons. At least half
06 the members of the State and local advisory acuncils must be
older consumers of services.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
Dr. Sheila waters
April 26, 1976
Page 2
You may wish to get in touch withethe Nursing Home Ombudsman
for your State: Ms. Dorothy S. Doyle, Maryland Office on Aging,
State Office Building, 301 West Preston Street, Baltimore,
Maryland 21201 (telephone: 301-383-5064). I am sure she
would be pleased to hear from you and to cooperate with your
group in every way possible.
You should also be aware that the office of Nursing Homes Affairs,
Health Resources Administration, Department of Health, Education,
and welfare, is responsible for development and coordination 06
federal policy relating to nursing homes and health of the elderly
and for enforcement 06 standards for nursing homes under the
Medicare and Medicaid programs. You can contact that office at
5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, if you have
questions relating to those areas.
Also enclosed is some general information about the Administration
on Aging, as well as a copy of the President's message of
February 9 transmitting to the Congress "Proposals for Inprovement
in Programs Serving the Elderly."
Mrs. Ford asked that I express her gratitude for your concern for
elderly persons and your willingness to work to alleviate their
problems, and she sends lebr very best wishes for success in your
endeavors.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Elizabeth M. O"Neill
Director 06 Correspondence
for Mrs. Ford
FORD & LIBRARY DENALD
Dr. Sheila waters
500 West University Barkway
Apartment 6-J2, The Carlyle
Baltimore, Maryland 21210
EMO/cvp
ITEALTH.
OF
THE SECRETARY OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20201
U.S.A.
APR 20 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HONORABLE ELIZABETH M. O'NEILL
In response to your communication of March 19 forwarding a February 20
letter from Dr. Sheila Waters to Mrs. Betty Ford, we recommend a response
that addresses Dr. Waters' concerns about the conditions in "retirement
homes" for the elderly, outlines what is currently being done along
these lines, and suggests what Dr. Waters and her group can do to
coordinate with these efforts. A draft reply is enclosed.
/s/Michael J Licata
Executive Secretary
to the Department
Enclosure
QERALD FORD TERRER
DRAFT
Dr. Sheila Waters
500 W. University Parkway
Apartment 6-J2, The Carlyle
Baltimore, Maryland 21210
Dear Dr. Waters:
Thank you for your letter of February 20 concerning the plight of the
elderly in retirement homes and the formation of a committee to look into
the situation.
From the context of your letter, I presume that by "retirement homes"
you are referring to what are commonly called nursing homes, which
usually means extended or long term care facilities, but can also
cover intermediate care and skilled nursing care.
You are certainly correct that there are a number of serious problems
relating to nursing homes in the United States today, in terms of quality
of care, availability, costs, staffing and other aspects. I can assure you
that the President and the Administration are deeply concerned over these
and other difficulities facing many older citizens. With a view toward
protecting the dignity of elderly institutionalized persons and promoting
a high quality of care and life in residential care facilities, the
Administration on Aging, under the Department of Health, Education,
and Welfare, has instituted a Nursing Home Ombudsman Program in nearly
all States, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. Enclosed is some
literature describing this program and the demonstration projects that
preceded it, plus a directory of ombudsmen currently functioning in the
various States.
GERAL
Page 2
These ombudsmen operate through the designated agencies on aging that have
been established in each State, as a part of a nationwide network on aging.
This network also includes agencies in 489 communities throughout the
country. The agencies act as advocates for the elderly, coordinate
activities on their behalf, and provide information on services and
programs. On the national, State, and local levels, advisory councils
and committees that work in conjunction with the network on aging have
been set up to actively promote the interests of older persons. At least
half of the members of State and local advisory councils must be older
consumers of services.
You may wish to get in touch with the Nursing Home Ombudsman for your
State: Ms. Dorothy S. Doyle, Maryland Office on Aging, State Office
Building, 301 West Preston Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201 (telephone:
301-383-5064). I am sure she would be pleased to hear from you and to
cooperate with your group in every way possible.
You should also be aware that the Office of Nursing Homes Affairs,
Health Resources Administration, Department of Health, Education,
and Welfare, is responsible for development and coordination of federal
policy relating to nursing homes and health of the elderly and for
enforcement of standards for nursing homes under the Medicare and
Medicaid programs. You can contact that office at 5600 Fishers Lane,
2.
FO,
Rockville, Maryland 20852, if you have questions relating to those
areas.
LIBRARY
Page 3
Also enclosed is some general information about the Administration on
Aging, as well as a copy of the President's message of February 9
transmitting to the Congress "Proposals for Improvement in Programs
Serving the Elderly."
You are to be commended for your concern for elderly persons and your
willingness to work to alleviate their problems. I hope the above in-
formation is helpful to you. I wish your group every success, and if I
can be of further assistance, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Enclosures
PREPARED BY:OS/OHD/AoA
VTDouglas:baf:4/13/76
x-50669
FORDO 2. OERATE LIBRARY
April 12, 1976
Dear Dr. Kessler:
On your eightieth birthday I welcome this
opportunity to congratulate you and to commend
your lifetime of service to the medical profes-
sion in our country and abroad.
You have achieved an admirable reputation for
your pioneering efforts in the field of rehabili-
tation. You can take well deserved pride and
satisfaction in your accomplishments and in
the lasting respect and admiration of the
countless people you have served.
I wholeheartedly join with your many friends
cc: w/copy of incoming to Marge Wicklein w/book.
who honor you on this happy milestone in
wishing you every joy and satisfaction.
Sincerely,
GERALD TORO
Henry H. Kessler, M.D., Ph. D.
173 South Orange Avenue
South Orange, New Jersey 07079
GRF:BB:emp
LETTER SENT FLATE TO: William K. Page, Exectutive Director
The Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation
Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, N.J.
07052
AIR MAIL - SPECIAL DELIVERY
March 18, 1976
Dear Wayne:
Betty and I were delighted to learn that
you will be celebrating your eightieth
birthday on April 3, and we want to be
included among your friends and admirers
expressing congratulations to you at
this special time.
We have wonderful memories of our years
together on the Hill, and we know the
same spirit that made you 80 effective
in the Congress is keeping you young and
vigorous today. We hope we will have a
chance to see you again soon. Until then,
our warmest wishes for the happiest of
birthdays!
Sincerely,
The Honorable Wayne N. Aspinall
150 Aspinall Drive
Palisade, Colorado 81526
GRF:EMP:BB:AVH:ms
CC: Neta Brown
SEND FLAT TO:
Ms. Vivian E. Passer
Chairman-WNA Birthday Committee
Apartment 17
De Merschman Gardens
923 North 12th Street
Grand Junction, Colorado 81501
BCRALD YORD
Message NO. GREATER LOVE
November 27, 1975
Dear Friends:
As families and friends around the country gather
to observe Thanksgiving, I am deeply pleased to
have the opportunity of sending warm good wishes
to the members of No Greater Love in your Salute
to Older Americans.
In the spirit of expressing gratitude for the many
blessings which we enjoy, your program is par-
ticularly appropriate as recognition of the role of
Older Americans in our national achievement.
May your kindness be both the source of happiness
to those fortunate enough to know you and of true
appreciation for the thought that it is in giving
that we receive.
With fond regards to each of you,
Sincerely,
No Greater Love's
Salute to Older Americans
Washington, D. C.
AH
GERALD 8. FORD OF
MESSAGE
SEND TO: Hank Aaron, President
1750 New York Avenue, N. W. 20006
September 16, 1975
retrievent
teaching
May 29, 1976
Dear Mrs. HeClellan,
How pleased I am to participate in the dinner-
dance honoring you as you retire from teaching!
You have my fond hope that this special occasion
recognizing the inspiration and friendship which
you have given to so many will be a memorable one
for you, for it represents the gratitude and esteem
of those who are fortunate enough to know you.
with warmest wishes that your time with your family
and your new undertakings will be the source of
great pleasure and satisfaction.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Ernestine McClellan
6100 North Stony Lake Road
Jackson, Michigan 49201
AH/mlb
MESSAGE: May 26, 1976
SEND TO:
Mrs. Jerri Hansen
5021 Brookside Drive
Jackson, Michigan 49203
FORD of GERALD LIDRARY RARY
Air Mail
bec: Liz O'Neill
minage
Retainment
July 12, 1975
Dear Miss Sweeney:
What a pleasure it is to join your many friends
in honoring you on the occasion of your retirement
from the Social Security Administration!
The respect and affection which your colleagues
feel for you are symbolised by this evening and
are evidenced by their expredsion of the inspiration
which you have given during 33 years of devoted
service to your government.
On behalf of the citizens of the United States,
may the President and I convey deep appreciation
for the invaluable contribution which you have made
in carrying out the work of the Social Security
Administration and in helping your fellow-
countrymen.
You have our warm regards, our gratitude, and
our very best wishes for continued fulfillment
and happiness.
Sincerely,
Miss Margaret M. Sweeney
Niagara Falls, New York
AH
MESSAGE
GEARTO FORD TORARY
SEND TO: Mr. Max K. Schaffer
District Manager, Social Security Administration
1309 Pine Avenue
Niagara Falls, New York 14301
June 23, 1975
Forta Parents
April 30, 1975
Dear Friends,
Thank you so much for providing the opportunity
to add my warm greetings to those which the
National Foster Parent Association is receiving
on its Fifth National Conference.
All who are participating in this Conference
can take pride in your individual contribution
to the happiness and well-being of those whom
you have made your special concern. Our nation
is richer for your selfless dedication to these
children. Your involvement brings to mind the
words of Christ when he said, "Inasmuch as you
have done it unto one of the least of these my
bretheren, you have done it unto me."
You each have my very best wishes for a most
memorable occasion.
Sincerely,
National Foster Parent Association
Mississippi University for Women
Columbus, Mississippi 39701
SEND TO:
Mr. David T. Evans
President
National Foster Parent Association
Post Office Box 130
GERALD FORD TERARY
Mississippi University for Women
Columbus, Mississippi 39701
semi
March 12, 1975
Dear Mrs. Johnson:
Mrs. Ford has asked me to thank you for
sharing news of the Young-in-Heart program.
She very much enjoyed learning of your acti-
vities which are such a source of fulfillment
and enjoyment.
We are so sorry that the volumb of Mrs. Ford's
mail prevented a reply in time for the 25th
anniversary of your group. The First Lady
hopes that special occasion was a most mem-
orable event for all, and she sends every good
wish for your continued success.
With appreciation and warm regards,
Sincerely,
Nancy M. Howe
Special Assistant
To Mrs. Ford
Mrs. Germaine G. Johnson
268 Congressional Lane
Rockville, Maryland 20852
AH
BERALD FORD
March 12, 1975
Dear Mrs. Johnson:
Mrs. Ford has asked me to thank you for
sharing news of the Young-in-Heart program.
She very much enjoyed learning of your acti-
vities which are such a source of fulfillment
and enjoyment.
We are 30 sorry that the volume of Mrs. Ford's
mail prevented a reply in time for the 25th
anniversary of your group. The First Lady
hopes that special occasion was a most mem-
orable event for all, and she sends every good
wish for your continued success.
With appreciation and warm regards,
Sincerely,
Nancy M. Howe
Special Assistant
To Mrs. Ford
Mrs. Germaine G. Johnson
268 Congressional Lane
Rockville, Maryland 20852
AH
DEPAIL R. FORD CIGRARY
November 1975
Dear Friends:
As you gather for the dedication and open house
of the Raybrook Manor, I am delighted to add
my warm wishes to those which you are
receiving on this special occasion.
May this building be truly a home and as such,
the source of friendship and happiness.
With fond regards,
Sincerely,
The Raybrook Manor
2121 Raybrook, South East
Grand Rapids, Michigan
AH
MESSAGE
SEND TO:
Bill Worst
1241 Emerald Avenue, N. E.
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49505
November 20, 1975
BERMO R. FORD LIBRARY
Amoun Cityzen
December 17, 1974
Dear Friends:
It is a special pleasure to send warm best wishes to
all who participated in the Sixth Annual Senior Citizens
Thanksgiving Dinner at Randolph High School. Your
thoughtful project represents time, planning, com-
mitment and involvement as well as the working
together of the generations.
Our nation is thankful for the kindness expressed in
your generous efforts which bode well for the future.
May your success inspire others throughout the year
in the joy of giving.
With fond regards to each of you and with my hope
especially for the blessings of this holiday season,
Sincerely,
Betty Ford
Students and Teachers
Randolph High School
Memorial Parkway
Randolph, Massachusetts 02368
X AH
MESSAGE
Send to David Wahlgren,
Senior Class Advisor
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
November 19, 1976
Dear Miss collier,
Thank you very much for your recent letter to Mrs. Ford sharing
your thoughts as a member of the National Association of Retired
Federal Employees.
You may be interested to know that it is customery for the President
to send a message to an organization which expresses the desire for
such a greeting. while President Ford has sent messages to the
National Association of Retired Federal Employees, emphasizing its
dedication to our national interest, there was no message request
for the national meeting which you mentioned.
You may also be interested in knowing that on October 26, 1974,
President Ford signed S. 628, a bill which NARFE supported, "to
eliminate the annuity reduction made, in order to provide a surviving
spouse with an annuity, during periods when the annuitant is not
married."
Because of your expressed interest in the one percent "add on" provided
federal annuitants, I am enclosing a press release on the subject.
with all good wishes,
Sincerely,
Mrs. Elizabeth M. O'Neill
Director of Correspondence
for Mrs. Ford
Miss Bessie M. collier
3812 Mississippi Street
apartment 12
San Diego, California 92104
EMO/AH/tkh
enclosure: PRESS RELEASE
GERALD
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEBRUARY 9, 1976
OFFICE OF THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT
AT THE SIGNING CEREMONY
OF THE
OLDER AMERICANS MESSAGE
THE OVAL OFFICE
10:05 A.M. EST
Today I am sending a Message to the Congress that
expressed my confidence and support of older Americans, my
very deep concern about the problems of the aging and my
proposals for dealing with the problems involving them.
Society owes a very deep debt of gratitude to all older
persons who have worked hard and contributed significantly
to our Nation's progress.
Older Americans continue to enrich our lives with
their vision, strength and experience. They have earned the
right to live securely, comfortably and independently. The
proposals that I am sending to the Congress offer significant.
improvements in the quality of life for all older Americans.
We all have a great stake in fighting inflation,
but older Americans living on fixed incomes are especially
hard hit. I pledge to continue the fight against inflation,
to provide special relief to the elderly.
I am requesting in my budget for fiscal year 1977
that the full cost of living increase in Social Security
benefits are paid during the coming year. The value of the
Social Security system is beyond challenge. I am concerned,
however, about the integrity of the Social Security Trust
Fund that enables people to count on this source of retirement
income. I am concerned because the system now pays out more
in benefits than it receives in tax payments.
To prevent a rapid decline in the Trust Fund over
the next few years I had to make a very difficult decision.
I am proposing a small payroll tax increase of three-tenths
of one percent each for employees as well as employers of
covered wages. The alternative would have been to limit
expected increases in retirement and disability payments.
This proposed tax increase will help to stabilize the Trust
Fund so that current and future recipients will be fully
assured of receiving the benefits they are entitled to.
GERALD
MORE
(OVER)
LIBRARY
Page 2
I am also very concerned about the effect of
catastrophic illnesses. I want to lighten the financial
burden which now strikes after prolonged hospitalization --
when the elderly and their families can least afford it.
Therefore, I am proposing catastrophic health insurance
for the more than 24 million Americans and disabled Americans
protected by Medicare.
No one who is covered by Medicare would have to pay
more than $500 a year for covered hospitalization or nursing
home care. No one who is covered by Medicare would have
to pay more than $250 for one year's doctor bills. Beneficiaries
and their physicials now have little incentive to limit the
duration of hospitalization for less serious conditions.
To encourage economic use of covered health services
I am also proposing changes in cost sharing arrangements.
As under the current system, a beneficiary who is in the
hospital will pay $104 a day for the first day of hospital
services. In addition, he or she will pay ten percent of
additional charges up to an annual maximum of $500. For
covered services my proposal would increase the annual
deductible from $60 to $77 and would continue the current
20 percent cost sharing.
To help finance the added protection, I am proposing
to limit Medicare reimbursement rates to 7 percent for
hospital services and 4 percent for physician services. These
proposals are of particular importance in achieving my goal of
helping all Americans live in dignity, security and good
health.
I hope you will join me in efforts to secure
Congressional passage of these important proposals.
We must show our commitment to a cause that is
often too long neglected--the dignity and well-being of
America's older generations.
I will now sign the Messages to the Congress -- one
to the House and one to the Senate urging that they undertake
the enactment of this necessary legislation.
Thank you very much.
END
(AT 10:20 A.M. EST)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEBRUARY 9, 1976
OFFICE OF THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT
AT THE SIGNING CEREMONY
OF THE
OLDER AMERICANS MESSAGE
THE OVAL OFFICE
10:05 A.M. EST
Today I am sending a Message to the Congress that
expressed my confidence and support of older Americans, my
very deep concern about the problems of the aging and my
proposals for dealing with the problems involving them.
Society owes a very deep debt of gratitude to all older
persons who have worked hard and contributed significantly
to our Nation's progress.
Older Americans continue to enrich our lives with
their vision, strength and experience. They have earned the
right to live securely, comfortably and independently. The
proposals that I am sending to the Congress offer significant.
improvements in the quality of life for all older Americans.
We all have a great stake in fighting inflation,
but older Americans living on fixed incomes are especially
hard hit. I pledge to continue the fight against inflation,
to provide special relief to the elderly.
I am requesting in my budget for fiscal year 1977
that the full cost of living increase in Social Security
benefits are paid during the coming year. The value of the
Social Security system is beyond challenge. I am concerned,
however, about the integrity of the Social Security Trust
Fund that enables people to count on this source of retirement
income. I am concerned because the system now pays out more
in benefits than it receives in tax payments.
To prevent a rapid decline in the Trust Fund over
the next few years I had to make a very difficult decision.
I am proposing a small payroll tax increase of three-tenths
of one percent each for employees as well as employers of
covered wages. The alternative would have been to limit
expected increases in retirement and disability payments.
This proposed tax increase will help to stabilize the Trust
Fund so that current and future recipients will be fully
assured of receiving the benefits they are entitled to.
MORE
(OVER)
BERALD
Page 2
I am also very concerned about the effect of
catastrophic illnesses. I want to lighten the financial
burden which now strikes after prolonged hospitalization --
When the elderly and their families can least afford it.
Therefore, I am proposing catastrophic health insurance
for the more than 24 million Americans and disabled Americans
protected by Medicare.
No one who is covered by Medicare would have to pay
more than $500 a year for covered hospitalization or nursing
home care. No one who is covered by Medicare would have
to pay more than $250 for one year's doctor bills. Beneficiaries
and their physicials now have little incentive to limit the
duration of hospitalization for less serious conditions.
To encourage economic use of covered health services
I am also proposing changes in cost sharing arrangements.
As under the current system, a beneficiary who is in the
hospital will pay $104 a day for the first day of hospital
services. In addition, he or she will pay ten percent of
additional charges up to an annual maximum of $500. For
covered services my proposal would increase the annual
deductible from $60 to $77 and would continue the current
20 percent cost sharing.
To help finance the added protection, I am proposing
to limit Medicare reimbursement rates to 7 percent for
hospital services and 4 percent for physician services. These
proposals are of particular importance in achieving my goal of
helping all Americans live in dignity, security and good
health.
I hope you will join me in efforts to secure
Congressional passage of these important proposals.
We must show our commitment to a cause that is
often too long neglected- the dignity and well-being of
America's older generations.
I will now sign the Messages to the Congress -- one
to the House and one to the Senate urging that they undertake
the enactment of this necessary legislation.
Thank you very much.
END
(AT 10:20 A.M. EST)
DEPARTMENT
LIBRARY
EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE
February 9, 1976
UNTIL 12 P.M. (EST)
FEBRUARY 9, 1976
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:
I ask the Congress to join with me in making improvements
in programs serving the elderly.
As President, I intend to do everything in my power to
help our nation demonstrate by its deeds a deep concern for
the dignity and worth of our older persons. By so doing,
our nation will continue to benefit from the contributions
that older persons can make to the strengthening of our
nation.
The proposals being forwarded to Congress are directly
related to the health and security of older Americans.
Their prompt enactment will demonstrate our concern that
lifetimes of sacrifice and hard work conclude in hope
rather than despair.
The single greatest threat to the quality of life of
older Americans is inflation. Our first priority continues
to be the fight against inflation. We have been able to
reduce by nearly half the double digit inflation experienced
in 1974. But the retired, living on fixed incomes, have
been particularly hard hit and the progress we have made
in reducing inflation has not benefited them enough. We
will continue our efforts to reduce federal spending,
balance the budget, and reduce taxes. The particular
vulnerability of the aged to the burdens of inflation,
however, requires that specific improvements be made in
two major Federal programs. Social Security and Medicare.
We must begin by insuring that the Social Security
system is beyond challenge. Maintaining the integrity of
the system is a vital obligation each generation has to
those who have worked hard and contributed to it all their
lives. I strongly reaffirm my commitment to a stable and
financially sound Social Security system. My 1977 budget
and legislative program include several elements which I
believe are essential to protect the solvency and integrity
of the system.
First, to help protect our retired and disabled citizens
against the hardships of inflation, my budget request to the
Congress includes a full cost of living increase in Social
Security benefits, to be effective with checks received in
July 1976. This will help maintain the purchasing power
of 32 million Americans.
Second, to insure the financial integrity of the Social
Security trust funds, I am proposing legislation to increase
payroll taxes by three-tenths of one percent each for
employees and employers. This increase will cost no worker
more
LIBRARY
(OVER)
2
more than $1 a week, and most will pay less. These additional
revenues are needed to stabilize the trust funds so that
current income will be certain to either equal or exceed
current outgo.
Third, to avoid serious future financing problems I will
submit later this year a change in the Social Security laws
to correct a serious flaw in the current system. The current
formula which determines benefits for workers who retire in
the future does not properly reflect wage and price fluctuations.
This is an inadvertent error which could lead to unnecessarily
inflated benefits.
The change I am proposing will not affect cost of living
increases in benefits after retirement, and will in no way
alter the benefit levels of current recipients. On the other
hand, it will protect future generations against unnecessary
costs and excessive tax increases.
I believe that the prompt enactment of all of these
proposals is necessary to maintain a sound Social Security
system and to preserve its financial integrity.
Income security is not our only concern. We need to
focus also on the special health care needs of our elder
citizens. Medicare and other Federal health programs have
been successful in improving access to quality medical care
for the aged. Before the inception of Medicare and Medicaid
in 1966, per capita health expenditures for our aged were
$445 per year. Just eight years later, in FY 1974, per
capita health expenditures for the elderly had increased
to $1218, an increase of 174 percent. But despite the
dramatic increase in medical services made possible by
public programs, some problems remain.
There are weaknesses in the Medicare program which must
be corrected. Three particular aspects of the current
program concern me: 1) its failure to provide our elderly
with protection against catastrophic illness costs, 2) the
serious effects that health care cost inflation is having on
the Medicare program, and 3) lack of incentives to encourage
efficient and economical use of hospital and medical services.
My proposal addresses each of these problems.
In my State of the Union Message I proposed protection
against catastrophic health expenditures for Medicare bene-
ficiaries. This will be accomplished in two ways. First, I
propose extending Medicare benefits by providing coverage
for unlimited days of hospital and skilled nursing facility
care for beneficiaries. Second, I propose to limit the
out-of-pocket expenses of beneficiaries, for covered services,
to $500 per year for hospital and skilled nursing services
and $250 per year for physician and other non-institutional
medical services.
This will mean that each year over a billion dollars of
benefit payments will be targeted for handling the financial
burden of prolonged illness. Millions of older persons live
in fear of being stricken by an illness that will call for
expensive hospital and medical care over a long period of
time. Most often they do not have the resources to pay the
bills. The members of their families share their fears
because they also do not have the resources to pay such
more
3
large bills. We have been talking about this problem for
many years. We have it within our power to act now so that
today's older persons will not be forced to live under this
kind of a shadow. I urge the Congress to act promptly.
Added steps are needed to slow down the inflation of
health costs and to help in the financing of this catastrophic
protection. Therefore, I am recommending that the Congress
limit increases in medicare payment rates in 1977 and 1978
to 7% a day for hospitals and 4% for physician services.
Additional cost-sharing provisions are also needed to
encourage economical use of the hospital and medical services
included under Medicare. Therefore, I am recommending. that
patients pay 10% of hospital and nursing home charges after
the first day and that the existing deductible for medical
services be increased from $60 to $77 annually.
The savings from placing a limit on increases in
medicare payment rates and some of the revenue from increased
cost sharing will be used to finance the catastrophic illness
program.
I feel that, on balance, these proposals will provide
our elder citizens with protection against catastrophic
illness costs, promote efficient utilization of services,
and moderate the increases in health care costs.
The legislative proposals which I have described are
only part of the over-all effort we are making on behalf of
older Americans. Current conditions call for continued and
intensified action on a broad front.
We have made progress in recent years. We have responded,
for example. to recommendations made at the 1971 White House
Conference on Aging. A Supplemental Security Income program
was enacted. Social Security benefits have been increased in
accord with increases in the cost of living. The Social
Security retirement test was liberalized. Many inequities
in payments to women have been eliminated. The 35 million
workers who have earned rights in private pension plans now
have increased protection.
In addition we have continued to strengthen the Older
Americans Act. I have supported the concept of the Older
Americans Act since its inception in 1965, and last November
signed the most recent amendments into law.
A key component of the Older Americans Act is the
national network on aging which provides a solid foundation
on which action can be based. I am pleased that we have
been able to assist in setting up this network of 56 State
and 489 Area Agencies on Aging, and 700 local nutrition
agencies. These local nutrition agencies for example
provide 300,000 hot meals a day five days a week.
The network provides a structure which can be used to
attack other important problems. A concern of mine is that
the voice of the elderly, as consumers, be heard in the
governmental decision-making process. The network on aging
more
offers opportunities for this through membership on advisory
councils related to State and Area Agencies on Aging,
Nutrition Project Agencies and by participation in public
hearings on the annual State and Area Plans. Such involvement
can and will have a significant impact on determining what
services for the aging are to be given the highest priorities
at the local level.
The principal goal of this National Network on Aging
is to bring into being coordinated comprehensive systems
for the provision of service to the elderly at the community
level. I join in the call for hard and creative work at all
levels -- Federal, State and Area in order to achieve this
objective. I am confident that progress can be made.
Toward this end, the Administration on Aging and a
number of Federal Departments and agencies have signed
agreements which will help to make available to older
persons a fair share of the Federal funds available in
such areas as housing, transportation, social services,
law enforcement, adult education and manpower -- resources
which can play a major role in enabling older persons to
continue to live in their own homes.
Despite these efforts, however, five percent of our
older men and women require the assistance provided by
skilled nursing homes and other long term care facilities.
To assist these citizens, an ombudsman process, related
solely to the persons in these facilities, is being put
into operation by the National Network on Aging. We
believe that this program will help to resolve individual
complaints, facilitate important citizen involvement in
the vigorous enforcement of Federal, State and local laws
designed to improve health and safety standards, and to
improve the quality of care in these facilities.
Today's older persons have made invaluable contributions
to the strengthening of our nation. They have provided the
nation with a vision and strength that has resulted in un-
precedented advancements in all of the areas of our life.
Our national moral strength is due in no small part to the
significance of their contributions. We must continue and
strengthen both our commitment to doing everything we can
to respond to the needs of the elderly and our determination
to draw on their strengths.
Our entire history has been marked by a tradition of
growth and progress. Each succeeding generation can measure
its progress in part by its ability to recognize, respect and
renew the contributions of earlier generations. I believe
that the Social Security and Medicare improvements I am
proposing, when combined with the action programs under
the Older Americans Act, will insure a measure of progress for
the elderly and thus provide real hope for us all.
GERALD R. FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE,
February 9, 1976.
#####