The proposed bill would update current statutes by introducing new provisions and requirements for the Parents as Paid Caregivers Program (PPCG) under Arizona law. Key changes include prohibiting parents from billing for services when the child is not present or for tasks typically performed by a parent of a non-disabled child, and mandating quarterly reports from the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) and the Department of Economic Security (DES) on the utilization of attendant care and habilitation services. Additionally, the bill would require the adoption of a standardized assessment tool for evaluating the need for extraordinary care and impose restrictions on the hours parents can provide care, limiting them to employment with a single agency. Moreover, the bill would establish a legislative approval process for significant amendments to the Medicaid program and mandate a special audit of the PPCG by the auditor general, with findings due by August 1, 2026. It also includes appropriations totaling $122,300,300 from the Prescription Drug Rebate Fund and $403,000,000 in Medicaid Expenditure Authority to support the developmental disabilities Medicaid program. Overall, these updates aim to enhance oversight, accountability, and the quality of care provided to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-2901.06, 41-723, 36-3312
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-723, 36-2970.02, 36-3311, 36-3312