House Bill No. [insert number] enacts R.S. 40:2009.45, which establishes a personal needs allowance for individuals and married couples residing in healthcare facilities in Louisiana. The bill mandates that the Louisiana Department of Health set the monthly personal needs allowance at a minimum of fifty dollars for individuals and one hundred dollars for couples. Additionally, the Department is authorized to submit a waiver or state plan amendment to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to secure federal financial participation for these provisions.

The implementation of the increased allowances is contingent upon the passage of a specific appropriation by the Louisiana Legislature. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or, if not signed, after the designated period for bills to become law without a signature. If the governor vetoes the bill and it is later approved by the legislature, it will become effective the day after that approval.