Senate Concurrent Resolution 8 establishes a nine-member Long-Term Care Task Force of 1999 to provide a focal point for further discussion and action concerning the needs of Alaskans for equitable and affordable long-term care options. This new task force will be in a position to provide leadership and guidance to ensure careful consideration of the l998 Long-Term Care Force's suggestions and recommendations.

The work of the 1998 task force was only the first step in meeting the ultimate goal of developing a suitable and equitable plan for providing access to long-term care for all Alaskans. Additional work needs to be done, including further analysis of current long-term care options and further exploration of new options.

The creation of a new Long-Term Care Task Force will provide an opportunity for a formally recognized group of legislators, state officials, and interested public members to continue the review and monitoring of long-term care in Alaska. I urge your support for SCR 8.