6153-S.E AMH SKIN DEAN 36

ESSB 6153 - H AMD TO H AMD(H-2783.1/01) 293 FAILED 6/15/01

By Representative Skinner

     On page 53, line 31, increase the general fund‑‑state appropriation for fiscal year 2002 by $858,000.

     On page 53, line 32, increase the general fund‑‑state appropriation for fiscal year 2003 by $858,000.

     On page 53, line 33 increase the general fund‑‑federal appropriation by $1,876,000.

     Correct the total accordingly.

     On page 58, after line 2, insert the following:

     "(14) $858,000 of the general fund‑‑state appropriation for fiscal year 2002, $858,000 of the general fund‑‑state appropriation fiscal year 2003, and $1,876,000 of the general fund‑‑federal appropriation are provided solely to be paid on behalf of current residents in community  residential settings, who are receiving an exception to policy rate. The department shall cease implementation of the four level payment system and the use of the new comprehensive assessment tool.  The department shall continue to allow for exception to policy negotiated rates as determined by case managers under the medicaid reimbursement system for adult family homes, adult residential care, and enhanced residential care prior to the adoption of the four level resident focused payment rates system on July 1, 2000.  Consideration for exceptional rates shall include, but shall not be limited to persons with Alzheimer=s disease, dementia, or other cognitive impairments, behavioral issues, or severe medical needs.  The department shall develop a comprehensive assessment tool that measures the care needs for persons with cognitive impairments or other mental disabilities and that takes into consideration a resident=s medical and skilled nursing needs.  By December 12, 2002, the department shall submit its recommended comprehensive assessment form to the appropriate policy committees of the legislature for approval."

EFFECT:  Provides funding to the Department of Social and Health Services Aging and Adult Services Administration to allow adult family homes and boarding homes to continue to be reimbursed at their currently authorized exceptional care payment rates.  In addition, the Department is required to cease implementation of the four level reimbursement system and its comprehensive assessment tool.  The Department shall submit a new comprehensive assessment tool to the Legislature by December 12, 2002 for approval.

FISCAL IMPACT:

Increases General Fund-State by $1,858,000.

Increases Other Funds by $1,876,000.