This bill establishes a pilot recruitment and retention program within the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to address workforce challenges, particularly in the division for children, youth and families, and at the Hampstead Hospital Residential Treatment Facility (HHRTF). The program may include incentives for recruitment and retention that are not considered gifts and are not subject to collective bargaining. The DHHS is required to report on the program's effectiveness by December 31, 2024, for potential inclusion in the state's biennial budget. Additionally, the Department of Administrative Services is authorized to establish positions necessary for DHHS to hire and retain staff currently employed by Wellpath Recovery Solutions, LLC at HHRTF, ensuring they maintain their current pay, leave time, and are eligible for state health and dental benefits.

The bill also amends the income eligibility for "in and out medical assistance" under the state Medicaid plan. The eligibility limit is set to increase by 3.2 percent effective January 1, 2025, with annual adjustments thereafter based on the Social Security Administration's cost of living adjustment. A supplemental appropriation of $671,298 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, is provided to implement this change, and the DHHS may accept and expend matching federal funds without prior fiscal committee approval. The effective dates for various sections of the act range from July 1, 2024, to September 15, 2025, with the remainder of the act effective upon its passage on June 26, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 404-J:1