The proposed bill seeks to improve access to Washington's long-term services and supports trust program by allowing participants who move out of state to maintain their benefit eligibility or opt out. Starting July 1, 2026, employees or self-employed individuals who have paid premiums for at least three years and worked a minimum of 500 hours each year in Washington can continue their participation after relocating. The bill also introduces a prohibition against discrimination based on race, gender, age, or preexisting conditions, and mandates that out-of-state participants report their earnings and comply with documentation requirements. Key amendments include changing the benefit unit from "one hundred dollars" to "$100" and clarifying that benefits for out-of-state participants will not be available until July 1, 2030.

Additionally, the bill expands eligibility for long-term services and supports to qualified individuals residing outside of Washington, effective January 1, 2030. These individuals can apply to the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) for eligibility determination based on their ability to perform daily living activities or need for supervision due to cognitive impairments. The DSHS is required to ensure sufficient qualified assessor capacity to complete these determinations within 45 days. The bill establishes a long-term services and supports trust account to manage funds from employer contributions and out-of-state participants, while also enforcing non-discrimination policies. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with provisions to maintain program integrity in case of any invalidation of its provisions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 50B.04.010, 50B.04.020, 50B.04.055, 50B.04.070, 50B.04.100
Substitute Bill: 50B.04.010, 50B.04.020, 50B.04.055, 50B.04.070, 50B.04.100
Bill as Passed Legislature: 50B.04.010, 50B.04.020, 50B.04.055, 50B.04.070, 50B.04.100
Session Law: 50B.04.010, 50B.04.020, 50B.04.055, 50B.04.070, 50B.04.100