NJ S3319

Increases the monthly personal needs allowance (PNA) from $50 to $140 for low-income residents of nursing homes, State and county psychiatric hospitals, and State developmental centers

Requires annual cost-of-living adjustments to the PNA beginning January 1 of the year following enactment, matching the Social Security benefits adjustment percentage

For SSI recipients who currently receive $30 federal plus $20 state supplemental allowance, the state would increase its supplemental payment to ensure total monthly PNA equals $140

The PNA enables residents to pay for discretionary items such as telephone expenses, meals out, greeting cards, reading materials, clothing, and hobbies

Implementation of the increased allowance is contingent upon the Commissioner of Human Services receiving federal approval and any necessary Medicaid State plan amendments or waivers