[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 109 (Wednesday, August 5, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1547]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E1547]]



           CIVIL SERVICE LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE BENEFIT ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN L. MICA

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, August 5, 1998

  Mr. MICA. Mr. Speaker, most people believe that they are covered for 
long-term care by their health care plans, disability insurance, or by 
Medicare. Unfortunately, many learn the hard way--when they or a family 
member needs care--that they are not adequately covered and must pay 
for long-term care on their own. By 2030, the average annual cost of a 
nursing home stay will increased from $40,000 today to more than 
$97,000 (in 1997 dollars).
  Long-term care insurance provides protection from these catastrophic 
financial risks and reduces reliance on Medicaid.
  As one of the Nation's largest employers it is appropriate that the 
Federal Government offer long-term care insurance as a benefit to 
Federal employees. An amazing 86% of Federal employees have expressed 
interest in long-term care insurance in response to survey 
questionnaires.
  Today I will introduce the ``Civil Service Long-Term Care Insurance 
Benefit Act'' that establishes a program through which Federal 
employees and annuitants may obtain group or individual long-term care 
insurance for themselves, their spouses, and any other eligible 
relative. This benefit option would be available by January, 2000.
  This bill will make long-term care insurance affordable to the 
Federal community through competition and choice.

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