Increases personal needs allowance to $50 for veterans and spouses on Medicaid or SSI, with annual cost-of-living adjustments.

This bill raises the personal needs allowance for veterans and their spouses who receive Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from $35 to $50. It also mandates annual cost-of-living increases for this allowance, tied to the Social Security benefits adjustment. The Commissioner of Human Services must seek federal approval for these changes. The new allowance is intended for personal items not provided by the facility, such as clothing and grooming aids. The bill awaits federal approval before the changes take effect.

Increases personal needs allowance to $50 for veterans and spouses on Medicaid or SSI, with annual cost-of-living adjustments.

This bill raises the personal needs allowance for veterans and their spouses who receive Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from $35 to $50. It also mandates annual cost-of-living increases for this allowance, tied to the Social Security benefits adjustment. The Commissioner of Human Services must seek federal approval for these changes. The new allowance is intended for personal items not provided by the facility, such as clothing and grooming aids. The bill awaits federal approval before the changes take effect.