The bill revises Washington state law concerning the essential needs and housing support program by updating eligibility criteria and operational guidelines. It clarifies that the support is not an entitlement and is available to individuals deemed eligible under existing laws, including low or extremely low-income elderly or disabled adults transitioning off benefits with immediate housing needs. A significant change is the introduction of direct cash assistance to recipients, which was previously prohibited, and the requirement for eligibility re-verification every 12 months. The bill also emphasizes the department's responsibilities in managing the program, including maintaining an updated list of eligible individuals and collaborating with local governments and community organizations for effective service delivery.

Additionally, the bill specifies eligibility for essential needs and housing support services for individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled, as well as pregnant women, detailing the necessary criteria such as income limits and the requirement for a social security number, with exceptions for human trafficking victims. It introduces a new incapacity determination process that requires the department to adopt medical criteria and consider healthcare professionals' opinions. Individuals found incapacitated must show no material improvement in their condition to retain eligibility. The bill also allows for client data sharing with the department of commerce and designated entities to enhance support services, while streamlining access for human trafficking victims by removing the need for a referral.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.185C.220, 43.185C.230, 36.22.250, 74.04.005, 74.04.805, 74.62.030
Substitute Bill: 43.185C.220, 43.185C.230, 74.04.005, 74.04.805, 74.62.030