For Immediate Release
August 9, 2022
Contacts: Summer Kim, skim@domesticworkers.org
WASHINGTON – The National Domestic Workers Alliance issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate, following months of negotiations, completed its vote on the Inflation Reduction Act:
“Since the start of the pandemic, American families have been clear – ‘Care can’t wait.’ More than two years later, as costs continue to rise, COVID continues to spread, and more women continue to leave the workforce, the need to replace our country’s inadequate patchwork system of care with bold new policies is more urgent and important than ever before.”
“We are pleased that the reconciliation agreement includes strong provisions that will bring down the high cost of prescription drugs and address the urgent challenges of climate change. These problems have gone unaddressed for far too long and the bill that is moving forward today will make a real difference in the lives of millions of Americans.”
“At the same time, however, we are profoundly disappointed that the Senate bill does not include the $150 billion in funding for home care that the House already passed. Care workers are essential for a strong economy. They kept our country moving throughout the pandemic. They, their loved ones, and all who rely on their work deserve a strong, sustainable care workforce and infrastructure.”
“Few issues affect Americans as broadly as care. As the Baby Boomers retire over the coming decade, the demand for in-home care will continue to rise. We will not meet this challenge, however, unless Congress fully invests in care infrastructure – raising wages for care workers and ensuring that every American who wants to receive care in their home can get it.”
“Our work is far from finished. In the same week that Congress reached an agreement on reconciliation, we testified about the importance of passing a Domestic Workers Bill of Rights to ensure that care jobs in the home are good, safe jobs for people. We are going to do everything we can to build the better future we all know is possible: One where our country cares more, not less, and where care workers, and all those who depend on their care, are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.”
