Congresswoman Tenney’s Essential Caregivers Act Advances Through Ways and Means Committee

July 15, 2026 Press Release Washington, DC — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today announced that her bipartisan Essential Caregivers Act advanced through the House Committee on Ways and Means, bringing the legislation one step closer to ensuring residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities are never again isolated from their loved ones during a public health emergency. The Essential Caregivers Act guarantees residents of long-term care facilities the right to in-person access to a designated essential caregiver, even when visitation is otherwise restricted during an emergency. The legislation responds directly to the devastating isolation experienced by seniors and individuals with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic, when families were prevented from providing caretaking, advocacy, and emotional support. It also directs the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to establish clear, uniform safety guidelines so essential caregivers can continue providing care while protecting residents and staff. “Families know their loved ones best, and they should never again be shut out of the care process,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “During COVID, too many seniors and residents with disabilities were left without the family members who helped feed them, comfort them, advocate for them, and recognize when something was wrong. Advancing this bipartisan bill through the Ways and Means Committee brings us one step closer to protecting patients, preserving dignity, and ensuring no resident is forced to experience a future crisis in isolation from their loved ones.” “Family caregivers are an essential part of our health care system, especially for seniors who rely on their loved ones for support, advocacy, and companionship,” said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). “The COVID-19 pandemic showed the devastating consequences when seniors in nursing homes are cut off from the people who care for them most. The Essential Caregivers Act ensures that, even during an emergency, nursing home residents have access to a trusted caregiver who can provide critical assistance and help protect their well-being. I appreciate Representative Tenney for her leadership in standing up for seniors and their families.” Watch full remarks here. ###