AN ACT CONCERNING COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENTS TO LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY RESIDENTS' PERSONAL NEEDS ALLOWANCE.

HB 6775 increases the monthly personal needs allowance (PNA) for Medicaid recipients living in long-term care facilities, currently set at $75. Starting July 1, 2025, the allowance will automatically rise annually by 25% of the federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program's cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), if any. This change directly affects residents in licensed nursing homes, chronic disease hospitals, intermediate care facilities, and state humane institutions who rely on Medicaid. The funds will be deposited into residents' personal accounts for incidental expenses like haircuts, phone calls, or newspapers, ensuring the allowance keeps pace with inflation. The bill requires annual adjustments without additional legislative action, with estimated costs of $500,000-$800,000 in fiscal year 2026.