The bill amends K.S.A. 39-972 to increase the personal needs allowance for residents receiving long-term care in Medicaid-approved nursing facilities. Specifically, it raises the minimum amount that residents can retain in their personal needs fund from $50 to $85 starting July 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill removes the previous stipulation that the amount be $60 after July 1, 2007. It also establishes that individuals receiving long-term care and supplemental security income will have a minimum allowance of $30, with the potential for adjustments based on the annual average increase in the chained consumer price index.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the director of the budget certify the annual average increase in the consumer price index to the head of the designated state Medicaid agency by July 1, 2026, and each year thereafter. This allows for potential cost-of-living adjustments to the personal needs funds, ensuring that the allowances keep pace with inflation. The existing section of K.S.A. 39-972 is repealed, and the act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 39-972