Revision: Feb. 14, 2024, 2:56 p.m.
Rep. Layon, Rock. 13
Rep. Merchant, Sull. 6
Rep. Schapiro, Ches. 16
February 14, 2024
2024-0709h
05/08
Amendment to HB 1593-FN
Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:
AN ACT making an appropriation to the department of health and human services to support recreational activities for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:
1 Department of Health and Human Services; Individuals with Developmental Disabilities; Funding for Recreational Services.
I. Recreational activities typically provide an opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities to participate in their community in preferred settings, where individuals are able to work on skill development to aid health, wellness, socialization, and safety goals. However, the department of health and human services has received clarification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services that supports and services that are recreational in nature are not reimbursable services under the Medicaid program.
II. In order to ensure that costs to access recreational services are covered, and that individuals with developmental disabilities are able to participate in recreational activities within their communities, the sum of $500,000 is appropriated to the department of health and human services for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. This appropriation is in addition to any other funds appropriated to the department of health and human services. The governor is authorized to draw a warrant for said sums out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated. Any unexpended funds shall lapse to the general fund on July 1, 2025.
III. In order to be eligible to receive funds for recreational services under this section, an individual must be receiving services under the 1915(c) developmental disabilities, acquired brain disorder, or in home support waiver and shall be requesting payment for an activity or service that cannot be covered by the New Hampshire Medicaid State Plan or a 1915(c) Home and Community Based Waiver.
IV. The department of health and human services shall contract with one or more organizations, such as an area agency as defined in RSA 171-A, to assist in administering these funds.
V. Payment for recreational services shall be limited to $600 per individual.
VI. The department of health and human services shall include language in the contracts designated in subparagraph IV to prioritize services previously included in individualized budgets. 2 Effective Date. This act shall take effect upon its passage.
2024-0709h
AMENDED ANALYSIS
This bill makes an appropriation to the department of health and human services to fund recreational activities for individuals with developmental disabilities.