Assemblyman Jones' Bill Would Help Elderly New Yorkers Apply for EPIC Program

“Technology has changed the way we communicate and go about our daily lives, making it easier than ever to connect with others and access information. More and more New Yorkers, of all ages, are reaping the benefits of this modern age, and it’s important we give every resident the option to utilize the internet and make their life easier. That’s why I introduced legislation, which has now been passed by the Aging Committee and referred to the Assembly Ways and Means Committee, that would allow seniors to apply online for the Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program (A.8665). This important program provides seniors with the financial relief they need by offering copayment assistance and Medicare Part D-covered prescription drug costs, but currently only accepts applications by fax or mail, which can be a time-consuming and inconvenient process.

“With more seniors embracing technology than ever before, it only makes sense that we offer them the option to complete an online application. This will make it easier for even more of our elderly residents to take advantage of the EPIC program, while also giving them peace of mind that their application was delivered and will be processed in a timely manner. Further, my bill ensures individuals who don’t want to apply online will still have the option to do so by mail instead. As technology evolves, our systems must change with it, and I’m hopeful this measure will soon become law.”