Proclamation 9361-National Family Caregivers Month, 2015
Issued 2015-10-30 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Obama issued this proclamation designating November 2015 as National Family Caregivers Month. The proclamation recognizes Americans who provide care and support to family members and friends in need—including parents, spouses, children, siblings, relatives, and neighbors who look after older citizens and people living with disabilities. It does not create new programs or legal requirements; it is a ceremonial declaration meant to honor caregivers and bring national attention to their contributions.
The proclamation references existing administration efforts mentioned at the White House Conference on Aging earlier in 2015, as well as provisions in the Affordable Care Act that provide options to help older Americans remain in their homes and give caregivers access to health insurance. It also mentions extended military caregiver leave for family members of eligible veterans dealing with serious illness or injury for up to five years after their service has ended.
This matters as a symbolic recognition of the millions of Americans who care for loved ones requiring additional support. While the proclamation itself doesn't change laws or allocate funding, it uses the platform of the presidency to acknowledge caregivers' work and publicly commits the administration to supporting them. Presidential proclamations of this type have been issued since George Washington and are a traditional way for presidents to highlight causes and communities.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9361-National Family Caregivers Month, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to family caregivers. Presidents have issued ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they fall squarely within the executive tradition. They do not create new law, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations on citizens.
Ceremonial proclamations like this one are purely declaratory. They express the sentiment of the President on behalf of the nation, drawing public awareness to causes or communities. They require no congressional approval and face no constitutional challenges.
Official Summary
Administration of Barack Obama, 2015 Proclamation 9361—National Family Caregivers Month, 2015 October 30, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Day in and day out, selfless and loving Americans provide care and support to family members and friends in need. They are parents, spouses, children, siblings, relatives, and neighbors who uphold their unwavering commitment to ensure the lives of their loved ones shine bright with health, safety, and dignity. During National Family Caregivers Month, we rededicate ourselves to making sure our selfless caregivers have the support they need to maintain their own well-being and that of those they love. One of the best measures of a country is how it treats its older citizens and people living with disabilities, and my Administration is dedicated to lifting up their lives and ensuring those who care for them get the support and recognition they deserve. Earlier this year, older Americans and caregivers, as well as their advocates, came together at the White House Conference on Aging, which provided an opportunity to discuss ways to identify and advance actions to improve quality of life for our Nation's elderly. Through the Affordable Care Act, we are providing more options to help older