Juneau -- The Senate unanimously passed a bill Wednesday that would raise the daily rates paid by the State to assisted living homes.

Assisted living homes are facilities that provide a home-like environment for seniors and people who have a disability, and who need assistance with everyday living activities. These facilities are limited to no more than 15 residents. Senate Bill 73, sponsored by Senator Mike Miller (R-North Pole), would increase the daily rate paid to these homes for each resident from $34.50 to $75.00 a day for Fiscal Year 2001.

"A rate increase is long overdue," said Miller. "This legislation would establish an equitable and reliable rate structure to ensure the success and growth of assisted living as a viable enterprise. As our society ages, assisted living homes will become more necessary. It is important that Alaskans who are not able to live on their own have a home in which they can be well cared for. SB 73 ensures the continuation of these facilities by making them financially viable for those that operate them."

The new daily rate proposed in SB 73 is based on the findings of the Alaska Rate Study Report that was completed in December 1998. The bill also raises the rate to $50 for FY 99 and FY 00.

SB 73 moves to the House for consideration.