In commemoration of the first anniversary of President Biden’s Executive Order on Increasing Access to High-Quality Care and Supporting Caregivers, officials from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have expressed their commitment to improving conditions for care and service workers. The executive order aims to enhance access to necessary services and create a conducive environment for these workers to acquire training and maintain well-paying jobs.
Secretary Xavier Becerra commented on the significance of this initiative, saying, "No one will go through their life without providing care for someone or needing it themselves. Care is a true equalizer. But our access to that critical care is not equal. And we should be doing more to lift up our caregivers." He added, "Under President Biden’s leadership, we are making sure every American has access to the essential care they need for their wellbeing." Further emphasizing the importance of caregivers in society, Becerra said, "We are also recognizing that roles which are too often dismissed or demeaned are treated for what they are worth, and ensuring the caregivers receive the respect and support they deserve. Care and care work are needed in every community, and critical to the success of our economy. And we won’t stop until those receiving care, and those providing it, have everything they need."
According to an HHS news release, the Investing in America agenda is designed to provide supportive services that are crucial for building a strong workforce by offering amenities such as child care. The rationale behind this strategy is that workers cannot effectively train or retain good jobs if they struggle with meeting basic needs.
Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm also expressed her support for caregivers and underscored their value in society. She said, "We all know someone whose life has been improved because of the support they received from a caregiver." Palm continued by acknowledging that many people have provided care to others - children, elderly parents or individuals with disabilities. She stated, "President Biden’s Executive Order on the Care Economy recognized the importance of caregivers and care workers in our lives and its actions will make sure that they receive the support they deserve. Caregiving is critical to our economy and to the health of our communities, and the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing support of caregivers and care workers demonstrates our commitment to them."
