SB1193 Summary

• Establishes the Seniors and Disabled Persons Pharmaceutical Assistance Relief Program, administered by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services beginning July 1, 2013, to help seniors and disabled individuals access affordable prescription drugs.

• Eligibility requires applicants to be age 65 or older or disabled (under 65 with a medically determinable impairment lasting 12+ months), be Illinois residents, have income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, and have maximum household assets of $13,070 if single or $26,120 if married.

• Applicants must apply for federal Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) under Medicare Part D and submit applications electronically to local area agencies on aging during prescribed periods.

• Defines "disabled person" using Social Security Administration standards; proof of disability includes federal disability benefits eligibility, Illinois Disabled Person Identification Card (Class 2), or examination by a Department-designated physician at applicant's expense.

• Authorizes the Department to establish rules regarding applications, income counting, covered prescription drugs, and other operational requirements for the program.