The bill amends Section 40-8.9-9 of the General Laws to establish a long-term-care rebalancing system reform goal. It mandates that shared living for older adults and adults with disabilities provide individuals with the option to receive care from family caregivers, both related and unrelated, regardless of other activities performed by the caregiver, such as acting 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 through shared living that are more restrictive than the standards in effect on January 1, 2025.

The bill emphasizes a person-centered approach that promotes individual choice and self-determination, ensuring access to a variety of supportive services in community settings. It consolidates existing home- and community-based services into a single system and ensures continued funding for assisted-living services and optional services like homemaker support and physical therapy evaluations. The executive office is authorized to reform payment methodologies to enhance access to home-care services and increase wages for direct-care workers. Additionally, the bill establishes a statewide conflict-free case management network to promote equitable access to services and community integration for Medicaid recipients. The act takes effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5773: 40-8.9-9