Louisiana Governor Signs Bill to Establish Trust Fund for In-Home Services for Seniors
PRESS RELEASE
Contact Information:
LaTonya Scott, communications director
(225) 252-1192, lsscott@aarp.org
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19, 2023
Baton Rouge, LA – Today, Governor John Bel Edwards signed SB 39, a bill to establish a funding source dedicated to keeping older adults in their homes for as long as possible.
SB 39 creates the “Community Options Waiver Trust Fund” for seniors and adults with disabilities, which aims to expand and improve Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) provided through the state’s Office of Aging and Adult Services.
The bill was passed unanimously by Louisiana lawmakers during the 2023 legislative session.
Under the bill, 12 percent of any excess state revenue will be directed toward the fund, and monies would be eligible for federal matching funds.
“This is a major milestone for seniors, and funding for HCBS options will be crucial as the population of older adults expands over the next decade,” said Andrew Muhl, AARP Louisiana advocacy director.
Currently, nearly 8,000 older adults in Louisiana are waiting to receive these services– with wait times as long as 10 years.
“Historically, dedicated trust funds have been used to increase HCBS for other groups that use these services, and we are thrilled to see this policy now being replicated for seniors,” said Muhl.
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