This bill aims to authorize payment for parental caregivers of minor children with developmental disabilities in Washington State. It recognizes that natural, adoptive, and stepparents often serve as the primary caregivers for their children and emphasizes the importance of compensating them for their caregiving efforts. The legislation highlights the critical role of the caregiving workforce in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities to live independently and positions financial support for parents as a valuable investment in families and communities.

To implement this, the bill mandates that by January 31, 2025, the administration must request amendments to existing home and community-based services waivers from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to allow these parents to receive payment for their caregiving services. If the amendment requests are denied, the administration is required to apply for a section 1115 demonstration waiver to seek similar payment provisions. Payments to eligible parents will commence as soon as CMS approval is obtained.