The bill amends several sections of Washington state law regarding estate recovery for medical assistance and the management of residents' personal funds in long-term care facilities. Key provisions include the establishment of procedures for waiving recovery in cases of undue hardship, particularly for surviving domestic partners, and the clarification that recovery efforts cannot include property exempt from claims by federal law, such as tribal artifacts. The authority and department are tasked with ensuring that individuals are informed about the terms and conditions of estate recovery in clear language, and they must provide written descriptions of community service options to potential clients and their families.

Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for filing liens against the property of individuals who received assistance, particularly those aged fifty-five or older. It specifies that liens relate back to any real property owned by the decedent before death and outlines the authority's ability to enforce these liens against life estates or joint tenancy interests. The bill also emphasizes the importance of protecting residents in adult family homes from deceptive practices regarding their personal funds, ensuring that funds are safeguarded and properly accounted for, and that residents receive full disclosure about any fees or charges associated with their care.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.20B.080, 70.129.040
Substitute Bill: 41.05A.090, 43.20B.080, 70.129.040