The proposed changes will add burdens to overwhelmed families and the state. Having to document that no other viable alternative care exists adds undue burdens to families providing care and will have to be monitored by the Commonwealth. This is ridiculous and callous. 

In a time when home healthcare is stretched beyond limits, Virginia is proposing to limit further what is available to families under the stress of relentless caregiving? Families do not provide care to get rich on the backs of Virginia taxpayers. They provide care because they want the best for their disabled loved ones. Being the paid caretaker ensures ongoing and consistent care for the one in need with some financial relief. For Virginia to require family members to become employed by private agencies is to require them to give time to a process of employment-seeking, training, and management--time that could and should be devoted to the care of the disabled person. 

Can Virginia not do better for its most vulnerable and those who love and care for them? Please, have mercy.