website) it will provide funds for states to develop lifespan respite programs to help families access quality, affordable respite care. Lifespan respite programs are defined in the Act “as coordinated systems of accessible, community-based respite care services for family caregivers of children and adults with special needs.” Specifically, the law authorizes funds for: Development of state and local lifespan respite programs Planned or emergency respite care services Training and recruitment of respite care workers and volunteers Caregiver training When the bill passed the House, Rep. Ferguson, whose own father was a caregiver for his ill mother for six years said, “Today's action by the House of Representatives represents not only an important victory for family caregivers nationwide, but it also sends America's caregivers a clear message: Your selfless sacrifice is appreciated, and help is on the way.” The Lifespan Respite Care Act of 2006 is based on model state lifespan respite programs that have successfully addressed all of these barriers. Three states have enacted legislation to implement lifespan respite programs (Oregon, Nebraska, Wisconsin), which establish state and local infrastructures for developing, providing, coordinating and improving access to respite for all caregivers, regardless of age, disability or family situation. Oklahoma has also implemented a successful lifespan respite program. See also Healthcare in the United States References External links Respite care fact sheet Regional Elderly Care resources for 50 states - directory, caregivers availability, news, articles Palliative care in the United States