This bill aims to enhance access to respite care for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their caregivers in Washington State. It recognizes the critical role of respite care in providing necessary breaks for both caregivers and those receiving care, emphasizing the need for increased availability of these services. To address this, the bill mandates that the Department of Social and Health Services include respite care in the aggregate portion of the basic plus and children's intensive in-home behavioral support waiver services. This change allows caregivers to access respite care without prior administrative approval once their annual assessed hours are exhausted.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section to chapter 71A.12 RCW, outlining specific responsibilities for the department. It requires the department to provide respite care as part of the aggregate services under the specified waivers and allows for the adoption of necessary rules for implementation. Furthermore, the department is tasked with submitting a waiver amendment to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by July 1, 2025, and must inform eligible clients about tracking their respite hours. If the waiver amendment is not approved, the department is required to notify the relevant legislative committees.