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 CEO Calls on Legislators to Protect Seniors; Writes Letter to Editor Our state senators will be voting on House Bill 247, which calls for licensing homecare agencies. I welcome licensure and urge our state lawmakers to vote in favor of this bill. We license manicurists and barbers in Pennsylvania, but have no licensure requirements for agencies that go into people's homes for several hours a day to assist thousands of older and disabled Pennsylvanians with the most personal type of care, such as bathing and grooming. As Pennsylvania's elderly population grows, and more people want to remain in their own homes, government must ensure standards for in-home care that protect our most vulnerable citizens. House Bill 247 would require homecare agencies to conduct employee criminal background checks, training and health screenings. Most homecare agencies already operate under these standards, but there is no statewide oversight to ensure consumer protection. For more than ten years, the homecare industry has promoted licensure, but attention to this matter has never hit lawmakers' radar screen. House Bill 247 is once again stalled while the Senate focuses on issues such as lobbyist disclosure. Consumer protection is a most formidable and relevant issue requiring immediate action by the Senate. If you have an elderly parent or family member who today is receiving in-home care or may need it in the future, we urge you to contact your state Senator and urge him/her to vote for House Bill 247. (NOTE - Bill was passed in June 2006) Sincerely, Robert R. Packer President/CEO Home Nursing Agency 201 Chestnut Avenue Altoona, PA 16603 
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