BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center S.B. 318
80R3569 ABC-D By: Deuell
AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Research has shown a link between the quality of care in nursing homes and direct care staffing levels. A rider has been added to the state budget for the last four sessions that provides extra Medicaid dollars to facilities that increase their direct care staffing. The program has proved popular with facilities and has been successful in increasing staffing.
As proposed, S.B. 318 places the enhancement in statute and requires the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission to maintain certain rates for direct care staffing if funds are appropriated.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 32.028, Human Resources Code, by adding Subsection (g-1), to require the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission to maintain the provision of incentive-based rates at a level at least equal to the level provided during the state fiscal year ending August 31, 2007, unless otherwise directed by the legislature in the General Appropriations Act.
SECTION 2. Authorizes delay of implementation until any necessary federal waivers or authorizations are obtained.
SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2007.