Harper Angel passes her first bill

February 22, 2005, FRANKFORT -- Freshman Senator Denise Harper Angel, D-Jefferson, passed her first bill last week. "It was exhilarating," Harper Angel said. "It was a day I have been looking forward to for quite some time."

Harper Angel's resolution, which was passed by the Senate on Feb. 17, requires the state to study issues relating to elderly citizens who care for adults with mental retardation. The bill now awaits action by the House.

"What's most important is that my first bill will help people who really need help. Afterall, that's why we're here," Harper Angel said.

As a single mom with two daughters Harper Angel said she understands what it's like to feel totally responsible for another person. "All single parents know that feeling of total responsibility for another person. But for elderly caregivers, that feeling is life-long," she said. "They worry about what will happen the day that they can no longer provide that daily care." Harper Angel said the state must ensure that adults with mental retardation receive proper care after their elderly caregivers are no longer able to help them. Currently there are nearly 2,400 individuals on a waiting list for the Supports for Community Living Program.

Senate Joint Resolution 85 directs the Kentucky Commission on Services and Supports for Individuals with Mental Retardation and Other Developmental Disorders to conduct the study and report back to the legislature.

Formerly Jefferson County's Property Valuation Administrator, Harper Angel said it's exciting and more than a little humbling to have the opportunity to serve in the State Senate. "There are so many issues that we consider that are important to every day people," Harper Angel said. "I'm thankful for the opportunity to make a real difference in their lives."