The bill amends Section 40-8.9-9 of the General Laws to establish a long-term-care rebalancing system reform goal. It authorizes the secretary of the executive office of health and human services (EOHHS) to implement resource eligibility limits of $12,000 for single persons and $18,000 for couples for individuals with long-term care needs who reside at home. The act aims to enhance person-centered care, individual choice, and access to supportive services in community settings, thereby reducing reliance on institutional care.

The EOHHS is responsible for applying for necessary waivers and amendments to implement this plan, which includes annual reporting on care distribution and waiting lists. The bill also consolidates existing home- and community-based services into a single system while ensuring continued funding for certain assisted-living services. Additionally, the executive office is empowered to pursue payment reforms to improve access to home-care services and increase wages for direct-care workers. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7463: 40-8.9-9