[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 43 (Monday, October 30, 2000)]
[Page 2628]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on House of Representatives Action on the Older Americans Act

October 25, 2000

    I applaud the House of Representatives for today's overwhelming 
bipartisan vote to reauthorize the Older Americans Act (H.R. 782). Our 
Nation's older Americans have been waiting for more than 5 years for 
Congress to approve this critical legislation. Now that the House has 
acted, it is imperative that the Senate pass this important legislation 
before it adjourns.
    The Older Americans Act is the cornerstone of our Nation's 
commitment to senior citizens. Seniors all across the country rely on 
vital OAA in-home and community-based services, including home delivered 
meals, nursing home ombudsmen, and employment and transportation 
services that are essential to preserve their dignity and independence.
    I am also pleased that the House bill includes the new National 
Family Caregiver Support Program, proposed by this administration to 
help hundreds of thousands of family members who are struggling to care 
for their older or disabled relatives. The Senate must do its part to 
pass this legislation without further delay.