The bill H. 3948 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 44-7-95, which increases the personal needs allowance (PNA) for nursing home residents. The PNA is defined as a monthly amount deducted from a Medicaid-eligible person's gross income to cover personal expenses while residing in a nursing facility. Starting January 1, 2025, the state PNA will be adjusted annually based on the cost of living adjustments for Social Security benefits, ensuring it does not exceed the maximum allowable under federal law. The bill stipulates that the PNA must be at least one hundred dollars and is in addition to the allowance provided by the Social Security Act.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions that protect the PNA from being counted as an asset for individuals residing in nursing homes as of June 1, 2024, and outlines specific items and services that cannot be purchased with the PNA, such as personal hygiene items covered by Medicaid. It mandates that nursing homes cannot require residents to use their PNA for food or social activities. The General Assembly is also required to appropriate sufficient funds each year to cover the increase in the personal needs allowance. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
02/11/2025: 44-7-95
Latest Version: 44-7-95