FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 8, 2000 CONTACT: Edmund Byrnes (202) 606-2572 edbyrnes@opm.gov OPM DIRECTOR APPLAUDS HOUSE ON PASSAGE OF LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE LEGISLATION Washington, D.C. -- The U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation (HR 4040) authorizing the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to offer long-term care insurance to current and retired federal employees, members of the military, and eligible family members. The passage of this legislation proves that people are coming to terms with the very real fact that the population of the United States is getting older, a population that will need long-term care options, said OPM Director Janice R. Lachance. I applaud the action by the House of Representatives which is a positive first step to assure the financial peace of mind and security for millions of American citizens. The legislation now on its way to the Senate gives OPM the tools it needs to devise a long-term care insurance program at group rates. By taking this bold step forward, the House has proven that our Nation cares about those who need long-term care options, said Lachance. ### OPM oversees the federal work force and provides the American public with uptodate employment information. OPM also supports U.S. agencies with personnel services and policy leadership including staffing tools, guidance on labormanagement relations and programs to improve workforce performance. Information on OPM responsibilities, programs and initiatives may be found at www.opm.gov.

Web page created 9 May 2000