ND SB2276

Establishes a cross-disability advisory council with up to 15 voting members, majority of whom must be individuals with disabilities or family members receiving Medicaid home and community-based services, to provide feedback on implementation of disability waivers and related services.

Department shall contract with an independent third party to facilitate the council, appoint members, establish term lengths, and serve as presiding officer; council must meet at least quarterly and may form subcommittees focused on specific disabilities including autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injury, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

Creates a family caregiver service pilot project to provide Medicaid payments to legally responsible individuals caring for eligible participants in Medicaid 1915(c) waivers (excluding aged and disabled waiver) for extraordinary care exceeding normal household activities and necessary to avoid institutionalization.

Appropriates $2,500,000 from the general fund for the biennium beginning July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2025, with up to $300,000 allocated for hiring one full-time project coordinator; pilot project participation capped at 120 individuals.

Cross-disability advisory council expires July 31, 2025; family caregiver service pilot project expires when the department certifies an approximate or equivalent program is available through a Medicaid and Medicare-approved waiver.