HOUSE BILL REPORT

HB 1261

BYRepresentatives Grimm, Brough, Beck, Walker, Betrozoff, Ballard, McLean, Moyer, Fisch, Amondson, Miller, Doty, C. Smith, Silver, Chandler, D. Sommers, Fisher, P. King, Schoon, Brooks, Leonard and May; by request of Governor Gardner

Authorizing funds to increase the number of persons served in the chore services program and the community options program entry system.

House Staff:Dave Knutson (786-7136)

AS PASSED HOUSE AUGUST 10, 1987

BACKGROUND:

The 1987-89 biennial Appropriation for the chore services program is not sufficient to support the current caseload level throughout the biennium.  The Department of Social and Health Services has taken actions to reduce the caseload level by restricting new clients entering the program to those leaving hospitals or nursing homes, or those requiring protective services.  Chore services are funded entirely from state funds and lidded federal block grant funds.

The Community Options Program Entry System (COPES) provides chore and personal care services for persons who would otherwise enter a nursing home.  COPES services are funded under the federal Title XIX Medicaid program, and use approximately 50% federal and 50% state funds.  The COPES appropriation level is not sufficient to expand services beyond the current caseload.

SUMMARY:

$3 million in state funds and $1.5 million in federal funds are provided to increase services in the chore and COPES programs.  The Department of Social and Health Services is required to maximize use of the COPES program.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    Phil Kaplan