SC H3948

Establishes a minimum personal needs allowance (PNA) of at least $100 per month for Medicaid-eligible nursing home residents, to be adjusted annually based on Social Security cost-of-living increases

PNA covers personal expenses not covered by Medicaid, including clothing, haircuts, cell phone bills, magazines, specialty food, and toiletries beyond basic hygiene items

Prohibits nursing homes from using residents' PNA for items Medicaid already covers (toothpaste, soap, incontinence supplies) or for food and social activities the facility is obligated to provide

Requires the state to disregard accumulated PNA funds as assets for residents who lived in nursing homes as of June 1, 2024, and mandates submission of a Medicaid state plan amendment for federal approval

Directs the General Assembly to appropriate recurring funds beginning in Fiscal Year 2025-2026 to cover the increased personal needs allowance