House Bill No. 6487 mandates that the Auditors of Public Accounts, in collaboration with the Office of Policy and Management, conduct a comprehensive review of the funding structure for residential and day programs provided to individuals with intellectual disabilities who receive 24-hour residential services. The review will involve comparing costs between private and state providers, examining costs based on clients' levels of need, assessing the quality of care in various residential settings, and ultimately recommending a cost-effective and quality-driven system for delivering these services. The findings of this review are to be reported to the relevant legislative committee by February 15, 2026.
The bill introduces new legal language, specifically stating that the review will be conducted "in conjunction with the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management" and outlines the specific areas of focus for the review. It also establishes a new section in the law effective from the date of passage. Additionally, the bill anticipates a fiscal impact, estimating a one-time cost to the state of $50,000 to $100,000 in FY 26 for hiring a consultant to assist with the review and report production. There are no anticipated municipal impacts associated with this bill.