Bill > SB143

This bill amends existing Alabama law concerning nursing facilities by removing a "sunset clause," which is a provision that automatically ends a law after a certain date. Specifically, it modifies sections related to "privilege assessments" and "surcharges" levied on nursing home beds. These assessments and surcharges are essentially fees or taxes that nursing facilities must pay, and the bill adjusts how these are calculated and reimbursed through the Medicaid program, which is a government health insurance program for low-income individuals. The changes aim to ensure that these assessments are considered allowable costs for nursing facilities and are factored into the Medicaid per diem rates (the daily payment rate for services provided to Medicaid residents). The bill also updates specific reimbursement methodologies and cost calculations for nursing facilities, including adjustments to ceilings for operating and direct patient care costs, and introduces a quality incentive program for facilities that meet certain performance measures. The effective date for these changes is June 1, 2026.