HB 1579 Summary

• Requires the Agency for Persons with Disabilities to make eligibility determinations within 45 days for children under 6 years old and 60 days for other applicants, or within 90 days if additional documentation or comprehensive assessment is needed.

• Mandates the agency authorize admission into intermediate care facilities for developmentally disabled individuals and conduct assessments to determine medical necessity and level of reimbursement.

• Establishes a prioritized waiting list system for home and community-based services Medicaid waiver with seven categories, prioritizing individuals in crisis, those transitioning from child welfare system, and those with documented caregiver or safety concerns.

• Requires individuals aged 18-22 transitioning from foster care who are eligible for waiver services to receive residential habilitation, with the community-based care lead agency funding room and board and providing case management.

• Specifies that only clients meeting developmental disability criteria, Medicaid eligibility requirements, and intermediate care facility level of care requirements may receive home and community-based services Medicaid waiver program services.

• Effective July 1, 2023.