LEGISLATURE SHOWING SUPPORT KEEPING SENIORS IN HOMES

(02/08/2010)
West Virginians are seeking more state funding to keep seniors and the disabled in their own homes.

A number of Calhoun residents petitioned the legislature.

All 100 members of the House of Delegates have joined the petition, urging a funding boost for a Medicaid waiver program that provides a less-costly alternative to nursing homes.

Lawmakers and Governor Manchin's administration officials have repeatedly clashed over the program's funding.

While it provides in-home care to about 6,000 residents annually, more than 930 more qualify. They have been waiting for final approval.

The agency says the program is valuable but expensive.

The Bureau of Senior Services Commissioner Sandra Vanin criticized the petition while it was being circulated.