Subject: Medicaid state plan amendment (SPA) 22-0017 Community First Choice, and Copes, New Freedom, and Residential Support Waivers—Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports Eligibility Determinations Completed by Federally Recognized Indian Tribes.

Description: On March 31, 2022, Governor Inslee signed SB 5866 authorizing federally recognized Indian tribes to provide eligibility determinations and case management for medicaid long-term services and supports (LTSS). The health care authority (HCA) and the department of social and health services (DSHS) intend to submit SPA 22-0017 and amendments for the community options program entry system, new freedom, and residential support waivers to allow DSHS to contract with federally recognized Indian tribes to provide eligibility determinations and case management services for medicaid LTSS.

SPA 22-0017 is anticipated to increase income received by federally recognized tribes for providing long-term care eligibility determinations and case management services to tribal members.

SPA 22-0017 and the waiver amendments are under development. HCA and DSHS would appreciate any input or concerns regarding the SPA and waiver amendments. To request copies when they become available or submit comments, please contact the person named below (please note that all comments are subject to public review and disclosure, as are the names of those who comment).

CONTACT: Grace Brower, Waiver Program Manager, 4450 10th Avenue S.E., Lacey, WA 98503, phone 360-725-3293, TTY 711, email grace.brower1@dshs.wa.gov.