To the editor:

I am writing this letter to thank Representative Donald Valdez. In this time of hyper political divisions amongst parties, it is refreshing to have a State Representative that will listen to his constituents and vote in a nonpartisan manner when it is the right thing to do. Representative Valdez has been a major supporter and defender of our elderly and disabled communities. He has stood for them and protected them when legislation has come up that would have hurt their benefits and their choices.

There is two key issues currently going through legislation in Denver: 1. Maintaining the current Medicaid funding for those who are living in long-term care to provide for the needs of these elderly and disabled community members 2. Listing long-term care facilities as residential properties as they have always been listed versus the state starting to charge long-term care facilities for those who come in as short term rehabilitation for 30 days or less a tax equivalent to lodgers tax as if we are a motel.

Thank you, Representative Valdez, for doing the right thing and standing up for our elderly and disabled community members who need the services we provide. No one grows old and wants to live in a long-term care facility; however there are circumstances beyond the control of many where we are the only place for them to call home. We will continue to work hard for our community to provide the best care possible and appreciate you working hard on our behalf.

Joyce Humiston
Rio Grande Inn-La Jara, Colorado
River Valley Inn-Del Norte, Colorado