Pennsylvania expands income rules for seniors' drug subsidy

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) -- More older Pennsylvanians will qualify for prescription drug assistance under newly enacted eligibility standards.

Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf inked into law on Tuesday the legislation that passed the General Assembly unanimously earlier this month.

The income limits for PACENET will increase from $23,500 to $27,500 for individuals and from $31,500 to $35,500 for married couples.

It's the first increase in income eligibility in 15 years.

Supporters say it will allow more than 14,000 people to enroll over the coming couple years, and prevent about 3,000 people from being kicked off the program.

PACENET and its companion program, PACE, are funded by the state lottery.