| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Health Care & Wellness Committee | |
HB 1247
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Concerning eligibility for long-term care services.
Sponsors: Representatives Morrell, Hinkle, Cody, Wallace and Moeller; by request of Department of Social and Health Services.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
Hearing Date: 1/25/07
Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).
Background:
The federal Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 limited the exemption status of an individual's home
in determining eligibility for Medicaid-funded long-term care services. The State has the option
to set the home equity standard between $500,000 and $750,000. The request legislation
submitted by the Department of Social and Health Services sets the home equity exemption at
$500,000.
Summary of Bill:
Individuals with home equity in excess of $500,000 will be ineligible for Medicaid-funded
long-term care services based on an application filed on or after May 1, 2006. If there is a
spouse, or a blind, disabled, or dependent children under age twenty one living in the home, the
home equity rule will not apply. The dollar amount of the home equity standard will be
increased each year, beginning in 2011, based on the percentage increase in the consumer price
index.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.