Summary

Expands who qualifies as a “family caregiver” under the federal lifespan respite care program by replacing “unpaid adult” with “unpaid individual.” This makes unpaid minors (youth caregivers) explicitly eligible to be recognized and supported by program activities. Extends the program’s authorization through fiscal years 2025–2029. This is an authorization (not direct funding), so annual appropriations would still be needed for the program to operate.

Key Points

• Replaces “unpaid adult” with “unpaid individual,” explicitly including unpaid minors as family caregivers.
• Extends authorization for the lifespan respite care program through FY 2029.
• Does not appropriate funds; continued operation depends on future annual appropriations.
• Aims to better reach youth caregivers and their care recipients with respite resources.
• No changes to taxes, benefits eligibility outside this program, or national security policy.
• Narrow, technical amendments to existing Public Health Service Act provisions.
• Helps states and providers plan services over a new five‑year authorization window.
• Creates no new mandates on states or localities.

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