Bill > S1989

This bill, called the "Helping Communities with Better Support Act," aims to increase transparency and expand coverage options for home and community-based services (HCBS) under Medicaid. Specifically, the bill requires states with HCBS waivers to publicly report detailed information about their service waiting lists, service delivery, and access to services like homemaker and personal care services, starting in January 2028. The bill allows states to apply for waivers to provide HCBS to individuals with disabilities who do not meet traditional eligibility requirements, provided that expanding coverage will not negatively impact existing waiver recipients' wait times. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services issue guidance by January 2026 to help states provide up to 60 days of interim coverage for HCBS services between eligibility determination and finalizing a complete care plan. These provisions are designed to increase accessibility, transparency, and flexibility in providing home and community-based services to individuals with disabilities.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1989/all-info