PENNSYLVANIA — In a crucial move aimed at protecting older Pennsylvanians’ access to vital prescription medication programs, the state House approved legislation on Wednesday. The bill, introduced by Sen. Judy Ward (R-30) and Sen. Maria Collett (D-12), seeks to ensure that seniors do not lose their benefits due to an increase in their Social Security payments.
Senate Bill 607 is designed to shield participants of the PACE and PACENET programs from losing their benefits due to a Social Security cost-of-living increase. These programs offer comprehensive prescription coverage to Pennsylvanians aged 65 or older.
“Senior citizens will not go into 2024 worrying about losing access to critical prescription medication coverage because of an increase in their Social Security payments,” said Sen. Ward. She expressed optimism for Governor Josh Shapiro’s prompt consideration and approval of the legislation.
The bill specifically aims to amend the act of August 26, 1971, known as the State Lottery Law, to further provide for determining eligibility for pharmaceutical assistance for the elderly. On December 12, 2023, it was presented to the Governor.
Sen. Collett highlighted the importance of the PACE and PACENET programs, noting, “These programs make it possible for hundreds of thousands of older Pennsylvanians to afford their medications. SB 607 will ensure these folks aren’t disqualified due to annual Social Security adjustments.” She also expressed gratitude to their House partners for moving the legislation forward.
Eligibility for the PACE and PACENET programs is determined by income limits. PACE caters to single older Pennsylvanians earning $14,500 or less, or married couples earning $17,700 or less. PACENET serves individuals earning between $14,500 and $33,500 or married couples earning between $17,700 and $41,500.
Social Security beneficiaries in Pennsylvania received an 8.7% cost-of-living increase in their benefits for 2023. Without the enactment of Senate Bill 607, some PACE and PACENET participants could lose their eligibility due to this increase.
Senate Bill 607 is now awaiting Governor Shapiro’s signature to become law.
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