Bill > H3948

This bill amends South Carolina law to increase and clarify the Personal Needs Allowance (PNA) for nursing home residents, establishing a new framework for how these funds can be used and adjusted. Starting January 1, 2025, the state personal needs allowance will be automatically adjusted annually based on the Social Security cost of living adjustment, with a minimum base amount of $100, and will not exceed federal limits. The bill specifies that the PNA is intended for personal expenses such as clothing, snacks, haircuts, magazines, and cell phone bills, and explicitly prohibits nursing homes from requiring residents to use these funds for items already covered by Medicaid, like personal hygiene products or social activities. For residents in nursing homes as of June 1, 2024, any accrued PNA amounts will be disregarded as an asset during their stay, and the state will seek federal approval for this provision. The bill also requires the General Assembly to appropriate recurring funds annually to support these PNA increases, ensuring ongoing financial support for nursing home residents' personal needs. The legislation will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Budget and Finance

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3948&session=126&summary=B