SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6495
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. |
As of January 18, 2010
Title: An act relating to supported living vendor rates.
Brief Description: Concerning supported living vendor rates.
Sponsors: Senators Hobbs and Stevens.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Ways & Means:
SENATE COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS |
Staff: Megan Atkinson (786-7446)
Background: Supported Living (SL) vendors provide care and support services to Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) clients in their own homes. Supports can vary from a few hours per month to up to 24 hours per day of care. Clients pay their own rent, food, and other personal expenses. The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) calculates payment rates for SL vendors based on several variables including the geographical location of the client receiving services. For rate calculation purposes, the state is divided into three regions: King County, Metropolitan Services Area (MSA) counties, and Non-MSA counties – with most counties grouped into the MSA category. The geographical grouping is designed to recognize regional cost differences in calculating the rates.
Total payments to SL vendors are approximately $270 million per year.
Summary of Bill: Senate Bill 6495 (SB 6495) adds a new section to statute requiring that whenever rates for supported living vendors are established, or otherwise affected by legislative action, the Legislature must reduce the disparity between King and Snohomish county vendors.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect on July 1, 2010.