HI HB2009

Extends child care subsidies to parents or guardians with documented disabilities who cannot safely care for their children, regardless of employment or educational status, with annual verification required by a licensed health care professional.

Requires the Department of Human Services to evaluate family caregiver capacity, willingness, and health limitations when determining eligibility for Medicaid home and community-based services, prohibiting assumptions that family members can provide care without assessment.

Mandates consideration of dependent-care responsibilities (minor children, elderly, or disabled dependents) in Medicaid waiver assessments, allowing service plans to include support that helps individuals with caregiving duties remain in the community.

Requires revised health and functional assessment protocols by June 30, 2027, including staff training videos and documentation of at-risk household members, with 10-day evaluation timelines when a Medicaid recipient leaves a household with remaining dependents.

Appropriates unspecified general funds for fiscal year 2026-2027, with an effective date of July 1, 3000, and Medicaid provisions contingent on federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approval.