The bill aims to enhance the support for individuals with developmental disabilities in Washington State by establishing a clear prioritization system for accessing home and community-based services. It recognizes the limited resources available and the urgent need for intervention, particularly during crises, to prevent hospitalizations and institutionalization. The legislation introduces a new section to chapter 71A.10 RCW, which outlines specific populations that will be prioritized for enrollment in waiver services, including individuals aged 45 and older, those with recent hospital stays without discharge plans, and individuals at risk of institutionalization.

Additionally, the bill mandates the administration to align its rules with these prioritization criteria and to collect and publicly share data regarding waiver enrollment, capacity, waitlists, and unfulfilled service requests. This transparency aims to ensure that the needs of the most vulnerable populations are met effectively and efficiently. The new provisions emphasize the importance of timely support for individuals with developmental disabilities, thereby improving their overall well-being and reducing the risk of adverse outcomes.