Resolution 1009 urges Oklahoma's Congressional Delegation to support the Credit for Caring Act, which aims to provide a federal tax credit of up to $5,000 annually for family caregivers. These caregivers play a crucial role in assisting loved ones with long-term health needs, often facing significant financial and emotional burdens. In Oklahoma alone, there are approximately 490,000 family caregivers who contribute over $6.6 billion in unpaid care, enabling many older residents to remain in their homes rather than move to expensive institutional care facilities.

The resolution highlights the financial challenges faced by caregivers, who typically spend over $7,000 per year out-of-pocket on various caregiving expenses. It emphasizes that without the support of family caregivers, the financial burden would likely shift to taxpayers and the state due to increased costs associated with institutional care. The Oklahoma Legislature has already taken steps to support caregivers by passing a state-based caregiver tax credit, and the resolution calls on the state's congressional representatives to advocate for the Credit for Caring Act at the federal level, thereby providing essential financial relief to caregivers.