The bill amends Section 40-8.9-9 of the General Laws to establish a long-term-care rebalancing system reform goal, which includes provisions for shared living arrangements for older adults and adults with disabilities. It mandates that individuals have the option to receive care from family caregivers, both related and unrelated, without restrictive limitations based on other activities such as serving as a health care proxy, power of attorney, or social security representative payee. The executive office of health and human services is prohibited from implementing any limitations on eligible caregivers that are more restrictive than those in effect on January 1, 2025.

The reform aims to ensure that at least 50% of Medicaid long-term-care funding is allocated to home- and community-based care for individuals aged 65 and over and adults with disabilities. The executive office is responsible for applying for necessary waivers and amendments to implement this plan, which includes annual reporting on care distribution and waiting lists. The legislation promotes person-centered care, individual choice, and access to supportive services, enabling individuals with disabilities to live in community settings rather than institutional facilities.

Additionally, the bill consolidates existing home- and community-based services into a single system and authorizes the executive office to develop new payment methodologies to enhance service access and quality. It includes measures to increase wages for home-care workers, implement a long-term-care-options counseling program, and establish a conflict-free case management network. The bill authorizes the secretary to seek necessary state plans or waiver authorities to maximize federal funding and develop higher resource eligibility limits for individuals with long-term care needs living at home. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5773: 40-8.9-9