Summary:

 Senate Bill 558 (SB 558):  This legislation requires the Health Care Authority to seek federal approval for a new Medicaid home-based care option for seniors with chronic debilitating diseases, aiming to keep them at home with supportive services. A $2 million appropriation covers the planning and waiver development, and the bill goes into effect immediately. 

Legislation Overview:

 Senate Bill 558 (SB 558):  The bill instructs the Health Care Authority (the “authority”) to apply for a Medicaid waiver from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide home-based health care services to seniors (65+ years old) with chronic debilitating diseases.
Key Definitions:
•	Chronic Debilitating Disease - A long-lasting condition that significantly impairs a person’s physical/mental abilities and quality of life.
•	Home-Based Health Care - Health care services provided in a person’s home or residence, including:
•	Skilled nursing
•	Home health aide
•	Palliative care
•	Primary care
•	Personal care services
•	In-home respite care
•	Physical, occupational, speech therapy
•	Non-emergency medical transportation
Medicaid Waiver Application:
•	By August 1, 2025, the authority must:
•	Submit an application to CMS for authorization to create this home-based health care Medicaid waiver.
•	If CMS approves, the authority will adopt rules to implement the program, subject to availability of state funds and federal requirements.
•	Implementation Details
•	Rules must be developed in consultation with:
•	Individuals with chronic debilitating diseases
•	Health care providers
The rules must define:
•	Application procedures for seniors seeking to join the program
•	A system of home-based services the seniors can access.
Funding and Emergency Clause – Appropriation:
•	$2 million from the General Fund to the Health Care Authority for FY 2025–2026 to develop the waiver application.
•	Any unspent funds revert to the General Fund at end of FY 2026.
Emergency Clause:
•	The Act takes effect immediately upon passage, citing public peace, health, and safety needs.
 

Current Law:

 This proposed legislation is “New Material”.