SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5993

As of January 15, 2004

Title: An act relating to regulation of community residential programs.

Brief Description: Revising regulation of community residential programs.

Sponsors: Senators Deccio, Fairley and Rossi.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 1/15/04.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Staff: Rhoda Donkin (786-7198)

Background: Individuals with disabilities who qualify for state services receive them either through community-based programs or at residential habilitation centers. Certified community residential providers are nonprofit and for-profit organizations serving 5,870 persons with disabilities in their own apartments or other shared living situations. The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) contracts with 130 organizations to provide such services as medical supervision, personal care, financial management, social supports, behavior management, and skills development. The department is responsible for licensing, certifying, and inspecting community residential programs. The department is also responsible for establishing, by rule, standards of care and training.

Summary of Bill: The department must incorporate cost containment measures into administrative processes involving community residential providers. These measures must address unnecessary duplication of efforts and paperwork. The department must also ensure that any rules regulating community residential providers allow for flexibility regarding routine performance reviews, staff changes, insurance claims, and other matters related to legal matters and contract compliance.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.