A senior member of the Budget Committee, Grassley last month wrote to Sen. Pete Domenici, committee chairman, urging increased funding for Title XX of the Social Security Act, the Social Services Block Grant.
The block grant includes services to the elderly including long-term care support services, home- and community-based services, meal support and nutrition, and adult protective services, as well as services for children and those with mental health needs. The block grant is funded at $1.7 billion this year. President Clinton proposes the same amount for next year. Grassley asked for $2.38 billion.
The committee approved a $100 million increase in the Social Services Block Grant in 2001, $25 million more than the President's request. The committee also approved an increase for the program of $3.4 billion over the next five years and $8.9 billion over the next ten years.
Grassley helped secure the increases during committee negotiations prior to committee action last week. The full Senate today began debate on the budget resolution containing the additional funding. Final passage is expected on Thursday.
"As our society ages, it's important that we fully fund good programs serving older Americans," Grassley said. "Peace of mind can come from access to quality services."