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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. James E. Casorio, Jr. |
  
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Budget addresses prescription coverage for seniors, tax credit for volunteer emergency responders
HARRISBURG, July 4 – State Rep. James E. Casorio Jr. said the 2008-09 state budget package finalized today includes legislation to preserve state-sponsored prescription drug coverage for many senior citizens and a tax credit to help retain and recruit volunteer fire and rescue responders.
A Senate bill (S.B. 4) passed by the House today and sent to the governor preserves PACE and PACENET coverage until 2010 for seniors who are eligible for the programs now, even if their Social Security cost-of-living increase takes them over the income limit for the programs. Casorio said the legislation is expected to help about 15,000 senior citizens keep their prescription coverage.
"Many seniors would be unable to afford the medications they need to stay healthy if it were not for PACE and PACENET," Casorio said. "A slight rise in their Social Security income does not change that – seniors who are enrolled in PACE and PACENET need that coverage, and making sure they continued to have access was a top budget priority of mine this year."
The budget package also includes a measure that will provide a $100 state income tax credit to volunteer firefighters, ambulance and rescue squad members.
"A state income tax credit for volunteer responders will provide some compensation to the volunteers who sacrifice much of their own time and that of their families to help the entire community," Casorio said. "Just as important, the tax credit also will help local volunteer fire, rescue and ambulance companies keep and recruit more members. Volunteer responders are crucial for public safety in Pennsylvania, but many departments are currently losing members."
Casorio reminded senior citizens who need help paying for their prescriptions information about PACE/PACENET and other prescription assistance programs is available at his local offices:
· 8981 Norwin Ave., Building 1, Suite 204, North Huntingdon, PA 15642; phone: 724-861-0247.
· 621 N. Fourth St., Suite 200, Jeannette, PA 15644; phone: 724-523-2491.
· Harrison City Volunteer Fire Department, Harrison Room, Mill Street, Harrison City, PA 15636; open 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Tuesdays.
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