Senate Bill No. 553 Summary

• Changes vendor requirements from mandatory ("shall") to optional ("may") for implementing electronic systems by July 1, 2015, with voluntary use permitted before that date.

• Shifts terminology from "telephone tracking system" to "electronic system" to allow for more advanced technologies beyond phone-based verification.

• Removes requirement to verify that service calls are placed from a phone number unique to the client, replacing it with verification that services are delivered at the registered location.

• Requires electronic systems to record service dates, times, client identity, personal identification numbers for attendants, and produce documentation and reimbursement reports for payroll and MO HealthNet claims.

• Mandates the department of health and senior services establish pilot projects in two regions (one urban, one rural) and submit a report by December 31, 2013, addressing impacts on service quality and self-directed care principles.