This bill proposes to increase the monthly personal needs allowance (PNA) for low-income individuals residing in nursing homes, State and county psychiatric hospitals, and State developmental centers from the current rate of $50 to $140. The PNA is intended to provide residents with discretionary funds for personal expenses such as communication, social activities, and basic necessities. Additionally, the bill mandates that starting January 1 of the year following its enactment, the PNA will be adjusted annually in accordance with the cost-of-living adjustments for Social Security benefits.

Furthermore, the bill outlines provisions for residents who are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which currently provides a federal allowance of up to $30 per month for comfort items. The State currently supplements this amount by $20, bringing the total PNA for SSI recipients to $50. Under the new legislation, if the federal allowance remains unchanged, the State would need to provide a supplemental payment of $90 per month to ensure that SSI recipients receive the same total PNA as Medicaid recipients. This adjustment aims to enhance the financial support available to vulnerable populations in care facilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-6, 44:7-87