State Senator David J. Cappiello, R-Danbury, has been recognized by AARP of Connecticut for his dedication and support for issues facing seniors citizens in the Connecticut.  He was honored for ensuring that Connecticut residents have access to affordable prescription drugs and for helping create a central source of information for grandparent caregivers.

“I am honored to receive this recognition from such a prominent organization,” said Sen. Cappiello.  “The AARP of Connecticut should be commended for their commitment to the interests of a growing population.  The AARP is second to none in their efforts to educate, advocate and provide services on behalf of their members.  This is a great honor.”

Senator Cappiello helped secure $5 million in the state budget for a Medicare Part D fund to ensure that ConnPACE and Medicaid-Medicare recipients who require a drug that is not covered by their Part D plan are given a 30-day supply paid for by the state.  Those drugs are known as non-formulary drugs.  The budget also included $1.5 to help fund appeals for ConnPACE and Medicaid prescription drug recipients who are denied drugs under their plan.

He was also influential in gaining approval of $91,000 for a Kinship Navigator program that uses 2-1-1 Info line to share information on programs, services and resources available for grandparents raising their grandchildren.  The Kinship Navigator will help grandparents enroll their grandchildren in school, apply for basic public benefits, find necessary child care, and locate local support groups.

“Sen Cappiello is well deserving of this recognition.  His efforts were critical to preserving prescription drug benefits for ConnPace and Medicaid recipients, and he also helped expand access to information and resources for grandparents raising their grandchildren,” said Robert Hill, Chairman or AARP’s Advocacy Leadership Committee.

AARP is a nonprofit, non partisan membership organization dedicated to making life better for people 50 and older.   There are over 611,000 Connecticut members and 62 chapters across the state.  AARP Connecticut provides information and resources; engages in legislative, regulatory and legal advocacy; assist members in serving their communities.

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