NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

Duplicates/Conflicts with/Companion to/Relates to None

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Human Services Department

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 276 appropriates $1,000.0 from the general fund to the human services department to provide disabled and elderly medicaid waivers to persons eligible for the program but not receiving services due to a lack of funds.

Significant Issues

The human services department states the appropriation should be made to the health department because that department receives the general fund appropriation for the Medicaid home and community based services waivers.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The $1,000.0 general fund appropriation would leverage $2.75 million in federal Medicaid dollars.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

The human services department reports that increasing the number of waivers will increase program administration requirements, particularly for utilization review. They also state the department will also have to monitor more cases for compliance with waiver policies and procedures.

SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

The human services department estimates that the $1,000.0 general fund appropriation and the $2.75 million leveraged federal medicaid dollars would be sufficient to provide services for an additional 234 clients. The estimate assumes an average cost of $16.0 per client per year.

BT/njw