| HB 2782-S2.E - DIGEST |
| (DIGEST AS ENACTED) |
Provides an efficient, effective, integrated approach to the delivery of basic support services and education and training programs, which includes the creation of an online benefits portal where individuals can apply for services, including public benefits and education and training support. |
Addresses referral to the division of vocational rehabilitation and the department of veterans affairs; implementation of the early supplemental security income transition project; the disability lifeline housing voucher program; and access to chemical dependency treatment. |
Provides the public with more effective access to available state, federal, and local services. |
Requires the department of social and health services, the employment security department, and the state board for community and technical colleges to work in partnership to expand the food stamp employment and training program. |
Ends the general assistance program and establishes the disability lifeline program. |
Implements multiple strategies designed to improve the employment and basic support outcomes of persons receiving disability lifeline benefits. |
Provides that section 2 of the act, which creates the online opportunity portal, is null and void if private funding sufficient to implement and operate the online opportunity portal is not secured by December 31, 2010. |
Provides that sections 1 through 10 and 29 of the act must be implemented within amounts appropriated for specific purposes in the omnibus operating appropriations act. |
| VETO MESSAGE ON E2SHB 2782 |
| March 29, 2010 |
| To the Honorable Speaker and Members, |
| The House of Representatives of the State of Washington |
| Ladies and Gentlemen: |
| I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Section 9, Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2782 entitled: |
"AN ACT Relating to establishing the security lifeline act." |
| This bill reforms one of the oldest safety net programs in Washington State for better efficiency and fiscal management. Section 9 would require the Health Care Authority to prioritize ineligible disability lifeline recipients for enrollment in the subsidized Basic Health Plan. The Health Care Authority would be required to continue to process these applications, even if subsidized enrollment is limited or closed due to lack of funding. Prioritizing ineligible disability lifeline recipients is counter to the reform actions exemplified within the security lifeline bill. Section 9 would limit the Health Care Authority's ability to efficiently manage enrollment to the appropriated budget, maintain a balanced risk pool, and is detrimental to the long-term viability of the Basic Health Plan. |
| We must preserve a viable safety net and access to health care for all Washington residents. |
| For these reasons, I have vetoed Section 9 of Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2782. |
| With the exception of Section 9, Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2782 is approved. |
| Respectfully submitted, |
| Christine Gregoire |
| Governor |