Amended IN Senate June 15, 2023 Amended IN Assembly March 27, 2023 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 1085Introduced by Assembly Member MaienscheinFebruary 15, 2023An act to amend Section 14124.16 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to Medi-Cal.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 1085, as amended, Maienschein. Medi-Cal: housing support services.Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions.Existing law, subject to implementation of the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) initiative, authorizes a Medi-Cal managed care plan to elect to cover community supports approved by the department as cost effective and medically appropriate in a comprehensive risk contract that are in lieu of applicable Medi-Cal state plan services. Under existing law, community supports that the department is authorized to approve include, among other things, housing transition navigation services, housing deposits, and housing tenancy and sustaining services.Existing law, subject to an appropriation, requires the department to complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. Existing law requires that the analysis take into consideration specified information, including the number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness. Existing law requires the department to report the outcomes of the analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024.This bill would require the department department, if the independent analysis finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, to seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services within 6 months of the completion of the above-described analysis. The bill would require the department to report the outcomes of the analysis to the Legislature by July 1, 2024. Under the bill, subject to receipt of those federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary would be eligible for those services if they either experience homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, as specified. Under the bill, the services would include housing transition and navigation services, housing deposits, and housing tenancy and sustaining services, as defined.If the evaluation finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the bill would require the department to provide recommendations for building capacity and a timeline for implementation consistent with the analysis findings.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 14124.16 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14124.16. (a) (1) Upon appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, the The department shall complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. The analysis shall take into consideration all of the following in assessing capacity to provide a covered housing support services benefit:(A) Providers that are not certified Medi-Cal providers, but are receiving funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing support services.(B) The number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness.(C) A comparison of provider networks in states that have implemented Medicaid benefits to fund housing support services, including any similar Medicaid benefits in California serving different populations.(D) Specific actions the department could take to develop a network of providers meeting the criteria of this section, and an estimated timeline for developing an adequate network, should the analysis conclude that the states network is not yet adequate.(2) The department shall report, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, the outcomes of the independent analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024, so long as an appropriation is made as described in paragraph (1). July 1, 2024.(b) For purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts, or amend existing contracts, on a bid or negotiated basis. Contracts entered into or amended pursuant to this subdivision shall be exempt from Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, and the State Administrative Manual, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(c) (1) The If the independent analysis described in subdivision (a) finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services for the populations identified in paragraph (3) within six months of the completion of the independent analysis described in subdivision (a). analysis.(2) If the independent analysis finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall provide recommendations for building that capacity and a timeline for implementation that is consistent with the findings of the independent analysis.(3) Subject to receipt of any necessary federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary shall be eligible for housing support services if they meet either of the following criteria:(A) The beneficiary is currently experiencing homelessness.(B) The beneficiary is currently in housing, but is at risk of homelessness due to previous experiences with homelessness and requires housing support services to maintain stable housing.(d) Housing support services include all of the following:(1) Housing transition and navigation services.(2) Housing deposits.(3) Housing tenancy and sustaining services.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Homelessness as it corresponds to the term homeless has the same meaning as set forth in Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as that section read on January 1, 2023, except that an individual shall continue to be considered homeless when living in or exiting an institutional setting, even if residing in that institutional setting for longer than 90 days, so long as they were homeless prior to residency.(2) Housing transition and navigation services means evidence-based and best practices that provide outreach to, and engage with, people experiencing homelessness in order to facilitate participation in the program and assist with transitioning to housing. The term includes the following services:(A) Assisting beneficiaries with obtaining local, state, or federal rental assistance or subsidies, and in locating permanent housing with private market landlords or property managers who are willing to accept rental assistance.(B) Assisting beneficiaries in completing housing applications for permanent housing, including obtaining documentation needed to access permanent housing.(C) Screening and assessing the tenants preferences and barriers to successful tenancy.(D) Assisting beneficiaries with applying for benefits to afford their housing.(E) Ensuring that the living environment is safe and ready for move-in.(F) Assisting and arranging for the details of the move, including identifying resources to assist with moving expenses.(G) Developing a housing support crisis plan that includes prevention and early intervention when housing is jeopardized.(H) Assisting the beneficiary to develop skills vital to maintaining permanent housing, including understanding and developing a budget, negotiating a lease, and building a good relationship with a prospective landlord.(3) Housing deposits means one-time expenses for move-in, such as security deposits, payment of utility arrears and startup, and necessary furniture costs.(4) Housing tenancy and sustaining services means services that preserve and maintain a persons housing within their community, including any of the following:(A) Early identification and intervention of behaviors actions that may jeopardize housing security.(B) Education and training on the rights and responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord.(C) Coaching on developing and maintaining key relationships with landlords or property managers.(D) Assistance in resolving disputes with landlords and neighbors to reduce the risk of eviction.(E) Advocacy and linkage with community resources to prevent eviction when housing may become jeopardized.(F) Care coordination and advocacy with health care professionals.(G) Assistance with a housing recertification process.(H) Coordinating with the tenant to review and update a housing support and crisis plan.(I) Assistance with applying for benefits to retain housing.(J) Educating tenants about their benefits and the need for a stable source of income to maintain housing.(K) Coordinating with, and linking individuals to, services and service providers in the community that can assist with maintaining stable housing.(L) Providing supported employment services.(M) Providing skills training on how to maintain a safe and healthy home environment.(5) Supportive employment services means individualized services provided to individuals with disabilities to obtain and keep competitive employment. Supportive employment services include all of the following:(A) Assistance with completing an employment application.(B) Identifying potential workplace accommodations that may be required.(C) Assistance with addressing workplace situations and conflicts.(D) Assistance with transportation needs.(E) Coordinating vocational training.(F) Assistance with developing skills to maintain stable employment.
Amended IN Senate June 15, 2023 Amended IN Assembly March 27, 2023 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 1085Introduced by Assembly Member MaienscheinFebruary 15, 2023An act to amend Section 14124.16 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to Medi-Cal.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 1085, as amended, Maienschein. Medi-Cal: housing support services.Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions.Existing law, subject to implementation of the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) initiative, authorizes a Medi-Cal managed care plan to elect to cover community supports approved by the department as cost effective and medically appropriate in a comprehensive risk contract that are in lieu of applicable Medi-Cal state plan services. Under existing law, community supports that the department is authorized to approve include, among other things, housing transition navigation services, housing deposits, and housing tenancy and sustaining services.Existing law, subject to an appropriation, requires the department to complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. Existing law requires that the analysis take into consideration specified information, including the number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness. Existing law requires the department to report the outcomes of the analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024.This bill would require the department department, if the independent analysis finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, to seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services within 6 months of the completion of the above-described analysis. The bill would require the department to report the outcomes of the analysis to the Legislature by July 1, 2024. Under the bill, subject to receipt of those federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary would be eligible for those services if they either experience homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, as specified. Under the bill, the services would include housing transition and navigation services, housing deposits, and housing tenancy and sustaining services, as defined.If the evaluation finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the bill would require the department to provide recommendations for building capacity and a timeline for implementation consistent with the analysis findings.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO
Amended IN Senate June 15, 2023 Amended IN Assembly March 27, 2023
Amended IN Senate June 15, 2023
Amended IN Assembly March 27, 2023
CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION
Assembly Bill
No. 1085
Introduced by Assembly Member MaienscheinFebruary 15, 2023
Introduced by Assembly Member Maienschein
February 15, 2023
An act to amend Section 14124.16 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to Medi-Cal.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
AB 1085, as amended, Maienschein. Medi-Cal: housing support services.
Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions.Existing law, subject to implementation of the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) initiative, authorizes a Medi-Cal managed care plan to elect to cover community supports approved by the department as cost effective and medically appropriate in a comprehensive risk contract that are in lieu of applicable Medi-Cal state plan services. Under existing law, community supports that the department is authorized to approve include, among other things, housing transition navigation services, housing deposits, and housing tenancy and sustaining services.Existing law, subject to an appropriation, requires the department to complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. Existing law requires that the analysis take into consideration specified information, including the number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness. Existing law requires the department to report the outcomes of the analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024.This bill would require the department department, if the independent analysis finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, to seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services within 6 months of the completion of the above-described analysis. The bill would require the department to report the outcomes of the analysis to the Legislature by July 1, 2024. Under the bill, subject to receipt of those federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary would be eligible for those services if they either experience homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, as specified. Under the bill, the services would include housing transition and navigation services, housing deposits, and housing tenancy and sustaining services, as defined.If the evaluation finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the bill would require the department to provide recommendations for building capacity and a timeline for implementation consistent with the analysis findings.
Existing law establishes the Medi-Cal program, which is administered by the State Department of Health Care Services and under which qualified low-income individuals receive health care services. The Medi-Cal program is, in part, governed and funded by federal Medicaid program provisions.
Existing law, subject to implementation of the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) initiative, authorizes a Medi-Cal managed care plan to elect to cover community supports approved by the department as cost effective and medically appropriate in a comprehensive risk contract that are in lieu of applicable Medi-Cal state plan services. Under existing law, community supports that the department is authorized to approve include, among other things, housing transition navigation services, housing deposits, and housing tenancy and sustaining services.
Existing law, subject to an appropriation, requires the department to complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. Existing law requires that the analysis take into consideration specified information, including the number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness. Existing law requires the department to report the outcomes of the analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024.
This bill would require the department department, if the independent analysis finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, to seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services within 6 months of the completion of the above-described analysis. The bill would require the department to report the outcomes of the analysis to the Legislature by July 1, 2024. Under the bill, subject to receipt of those federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary would be eligible for those services if they either experience homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, as specified. Under the bill, the services would include housing transition and navigation services, housing deposits, and housing tenancy and sustaining services, as defined.
If the evaluation finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the bill would require the department to provide recommendations for building capacity and a timeline for implementation consistent with the analysis findings.
## Digest Key
## Bill Text
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 14124.16 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14124.16. (a) (1) Upon appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, the The department shall complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. The analysis shall take into consideration all of the following in assessing capacity to provide a covered housing support services benefit:(A) Providers that are not certified Medi-Cal providers, but are receiving funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing support services.(B) The number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness.(C) A comparison of provider networks in states that have implemented Medicaid benefits to fund housing support services, including any similar Medicaid benefits in California serving different populations.(D) Specific actions the department could take to develop a network of providers meeting the criteria of this section, and an estimated timeline for developing an adequate network, should the analysis conclude that the states network is not yet adequate.(2) The department shall report, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, the outcomes of the independent analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024, so long as an appropriation is made as described in paragraph (1). July 1, 2024.(b) For purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts, or amend existing contracts, on a bid or negotiated basis. Contracts entered into or amended pursuant to this subdivision shall be exempt from Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, and the State Administrative Manual, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(c) (1) The If the independent analysis described in subdivision (a) finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services for the populations identified in paragraph (3) within six months of the completion of the independent analysis described in subdivision (a). analysis.(2) If the independent analysis finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall provide recommendations for building that capacity and a timeline for implementation that is consistent with the findings of the independent analysis.(3) Subject to receipt of any necessary federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary shall be eligible for housing support services if they meet either of the following criteria:(A) The beneficiary is currently experiencing homelessness.(B) The beneficiary is currently in housing, but is at risk of homelessness due to previous experiences with homelessness and requires housing support services to maintain stable housing.(d) Housing support services include all of the following:(1) Housing transition and navigation services.(2) Housing deposits.(3) Housing tenancy and sustaining services.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Homelessness as it corresponds to the term homeless has the same meaning as set forth in Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as that section read on January 1, 2023, except that an individual shall continue to be considered homeless when living in or exiting an institutional setting, even if residing in that institutional setting for longer than 90 days, so long as they were homeless prior to residency.(2) Housing transition and navigation services means evidence-based and best practices that provide outreach to, and engage with, people experiencing homelessness in order to facilitate participation in the program and assist with transitioning to housing. The term includes the following services:(A) Assisting beneficiaries with obtaining local, state, or federal rental assistance or subsidies, and in locating permanent housing with private market landlords or property managers who are willing to accept rental assistance.(B) Assisting beneficiaries in completing housing applications for permanent housing, including obtaining documentation needed to access permanent housing.(C) Screening and assessing the tenants preferences and barriers to successful tenancy.(D) Assisting beneficiaries with applying for benefits to afford their housing.(E) Ensuring that the living environment is safe and ready for move-in.(F) Assisting and arranging for the details of the move, including identifying resources to assist with moving expenses.(G) Developing a housing support crisis plan that includes prevention and early intervention when housing is jeopardized.(H) Assisting the beneficiary to develop skills vital to maintaining permanent housing, including understanding and developing a budget, negotiating a lease, and building a good relationship with a prospective landlord.(3) Housing deposits means one-time expenses for move-in, such as security deposits, payment of utility arrears and startup, and necessary furniture costs.(4) Housing tenancy and sustaining services means services that preserve and maintain a persons housing within their community, including any of the following:(A) Early identification and intervention of behaviors actions that may jeopardize housing security.(B) Education and training on the rights and responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord.(C) Coaching on developing and maintaining key relationships with landlords or property managers.(D) Assistance in resolving disputes with landlords and neighbors to reduce the risk of eviction.(E) Advocacy and linkage with community resources to prevent eviction when housing may become jeopardized.(F) Care coordination and advocacy with health care professionals.(G) Assistance with a housing recertification process.(H) Coordinating with the tenant to review and update a housing support and crisis plan.(I) Assistance with applying for benefits to retain housing.(J) Educating tenants about their benefits and the need for a stable source of income to maintain housing.(K) Coordinating with, and linking individuals to, services and service providers in the community that can assist with maintaining stable housing.(L) Providing supported employment services.(M) Providing skills training on how to maintain a safe and healthy home environment.(5) Supportive employment services means individualized services provided to individuals with disabilities to obtain and keep competitive employment. Supportive employment services include all of the following:(A) Assistance with completing an employment application.(B) Identifying potential workplace accommodations that may be required.(C) Assistance with addressing workplace situations and conflicts.(D) Assistance with transportation needs.(E) Coordinating vocational training.(F) Assistance with developing skills to maintain stable employment.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 14124.16 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14124.16. (a) (1) Upon appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, the The department shall complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. The analysis shall take into consideration all of the following in assessing capacity to provide a covered housing support services benefit:(A) Providers that are not certified Medi-Cal providers, but are receiving funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing support services.(B) The number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness.(C) A comparison of provider networks in states that have implemented Medicaid benefits to fund housing support services, including any similar Medicaid benefits in California serving different populations.(D) Specific actions the department could take to develop a network of providers meeting the criteria of this section, and an estimated timeline for developing an adequate network, should the analysis conclude that the states network is not yet adequate.(2) The department shall report, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, the outcomes of the independent analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024, so long as an appropriation is made as described in paragraph (1). July 1, 2024.(b) For purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts, or amend existing contracts, on a bid or negotiated basis. Contracts entered into or amended pursuant to this subdivision shall be exempt from Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, and the State Administrative Manual, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(c) (1) The If the independent analysis described in subdivision (a) finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services for the populations identified in paragraph (3) within six months of the completion of the independent analysis described in subdivision (a). analysis.(2) If the independent analysis finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall provide recommendations for building that capacity and a timeline for implementation that is consistent with the findings of the independent analysis.(3) Subject to receipt of any necessary federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary shall be eligible for housing support services if they meet either of the following criteria:(A) The beneficiary is currently experiencing homelessness.(B) The beneficiary is currently in housing, but is at risk of homelessness due to previous experiences with homelessness and requires housing support services to maintain stable housing.(d) Housing support services include all of the following:(1) Housing transition and navigation services.(2) Housing deposits.(3) Housing tenancy and sustaining services.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Homelessness as it corresponds to the term homeless has the same meaning as set forth in Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as that section read on January 1, 2023, except that an individual shall continue to be considered homeless when living in or exiting an institutional setting, even if residing in that institutional setting for longer than 90 days, so long as they were homeless prior to residency.(2) Housing transition and navigation services means evidence-based and best practices that provide outreach to, and engage with, people experiencing homelessness in order to facilitate participation in the program and assist with transitioning to housing. The term includes the following services:(A) Assisting beneficiaries with obtaining local, state, or federal rental assistance or subsidies, and in locating permanent housing with private market landlords or property managers who are willing to accept rental assistance.(B) Assisting beneficiaries in completing housing applications for permanent housing, including obtaining documentation needed to access permanent housing.(C) Screening and assessing the tenants preferences and barriers to successful tenancy.(D) Assisting beneficiaries with applying for benefits to afford their housing.(E) Ensuring that the living environment is safe and ready for move-in.(F) Assisting and arranging for the details of the move, including identifying resources to assist with moving expenses.(G) Developing a housing support crisis plan that includes prevention and early intervention when housing is jeopardized.(H) Assisting the beneficiary to develop skills vital to maintaining permanent housing, including understanding and developing a budget, negotiating a lease, and building a good relationship with a prospective landlord.(3) Housing deposits means one-time expenses for move-in, such as security deposits, payment of utility arrears and startup, and necessary furniture costs.(4) Housing tenancy and sustaining services means services that preserve and maintain a persons housing within their community, including any of the following:(A) Early identification and intervention of behaviors actions that may jeopardize housing security.(B) Education and training on the rights and responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord.(C) Coaching on developing and maintaining key relationships with landlords or property managers.(D) Assistance in resolving disputes with landlords and neighbors to reduce the risk of eviction.(E) Advocacy and linkage with community resources to prevent eviction when housing may become jeopardized.(F) Care coordination and advocacy with health care professionals.(G) Assistance with a housing recertification process.(H) Coordinating with the tenant to review and update a housing support and crisis plan.(I) Assistance with applying for benefits to retain housing.(J) Educating tenants about their benefits and the need for a stable source of income to maintain housing.(K) Coordinating with, and linking individuals to, services and service providers in the community that can assist with maintaining stable housing.(L) Providing supported employment services.(M) Providing skills training on how to maintain a safe and healthy home environment.(5) Supportive employment services means individualized services provided to individuals with disabilities to obtain and keep competitive employment. Supportive employment services include all of the following:(A) Assistance with completing an employment application.(B) Identifying potential workplace accommodations that may be required.(C) Assistance with addressing workplace situations and conflicts.(D) Assistance with transportation needs.(E) Coordinating vocational training.(F) Assistance with developing skills to maintain stable employment.
SECTION 1. Section 14124.16 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:
### SECTION 1.
14124.16. (a) (1) Upon appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, the The department shall complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. The analysis shall take into consideration all of the following in assessing capacity to provide a covered housing support services benefit:(A) Providers that are not certified Medi-Cal providers, but are receiving funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing support services.(B) The number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness.(C) A comparison of provider networks in states that have implemented Medicaid benefits to fund housing support services, including any similar Medicaid benefits in California serving different populations.(D) Specific actions the department could take to develop a network of providers meeting the criteria of this section, and an estimated timeline for developing an adequate network, should the analysis conclude that the states network is not yet adequate.(2) The department shall report, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, the outcomes of the independent analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024, so long as an appropriation is made as described in paragraph (1). July 1, 2024.(b) For purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts, or amend existing contracts, on a bid or negotiated basis. Contracts entered into or amended pursuant to this subdivision shall be exempt from Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, and the State Administrative Manual, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(c) (1) The If the independent analysis described in subdivision (a) finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services for the populations identified in paragraph (3) within six months of the completion of the independent analysis described in subdivision (a). analysis.(2) If the independent analysis finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall provide recommendations for building that capacity and a timeline for implementation that is consistent with the findings of the independent analysis.(3) Subject to receipt of any necessary federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary shall be eligible for housing support services if they meet either of the following criteria:(A) The beneficiary is currently experiencing homelessness.(B) The beneficiary is currently in housing, but is at risk of homelessness due to previous experiences with homelessness and requires housing support services to maintain stable housing.(d) Housing support services include all of the following:(1) Housing transition and navigation services.(2) Housing deposits.(3) Housing tenancy and sustaining services.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Homelessness as it corresponds to the term homeless has the same meaning as set forth in Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as that section read on January 1, 2023, except that an individual shall continue to be considered homeless when living in or exiting an institutional setting, even if residing in that institutional setting for longer than 90 days, so long as they were homeless prior to residency.(2) Housing transition and navigation services means evidence-based and best practices that provide outreach to, and engage with, people experiencing homelessness in order to facilitate participation in the program and assist with transitioning to housing. The term includes the following services:(A) Assisting beneficiaries with obtaining local, state, or federal rental assistance or subsidies, and in locating permanent housing with private market landlords or property managers who are willing to accept rental assistance.(B) Assisting beneficiaries in completing housing applications for permanent housing, including obtaining documentation needed to access permanent housing.(C) Screening and assessing the tenants preferences and barriers to successful tenancy.(D) Assisting beneficiaries with applying for benefits to afford their housing.(E) Ensuring that the living environment is safe and ready for move-in.(F) Assisting and arranging for the details of the move, including identifying resources to assist with moving expenses.(G) Developing a housing support crisis plan that includes prevention and early intervention when housing is jeopardized.(H) Assisting the beneficiary to develop skills vital to maintaining permanent housing, including understanding and developing a budget, negotiating a lease, and building a good relationship with a prospective landlord.(3) Housing deposits means one-time expenses for move-in, such as security deposits, payment of utility arrears and startup, and necessary furniture costs.(4) Housing tenancy and sustaining services means services that preserve and maintain a persons housing within their community, including any of the following:(A) Early identification and intervention of behaviors actions that may jeopardize housing security.(B) Education and training on the rights and responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord.(C) Coaching on developing and maintaining key relationships with landlords or property managers.(D) Assistance in resolving disputes with landlords and neighbors to reduce the risk of eviction.(E) Advocacy and linkage with community resources to prevent eviction when housing may become jeopardized.(F) Care coordination and advocacy with health care professionals.(G) Assistance with a housing recertification process.(H) Coordinating with the tenant to review and update a housing support and crisis plan.(I) Assistance with applying for benefits to retain housing.(J) Educating tenants about their benefits and the need for a stable source of income to maintain housing.(K) Coordinating with, and linking individuals to, services and service providers in the community that can assist with maintaining stable housing.(L) Providing supported employment services.(M) Providing skills training on how to maintain a safe and healthy home environment.(5) Supportive employment services means individualized services provided to individuals with disabilities to obtain and keep competitive employment. Supportive employment services include all of the following:(A) Assistance with completing an employment application.(B) Identifying potential workplace accommodations that may be required.(C) Assistance with addressing workplace situations and conflicts.(D) Assistance with transportation needs.(E) Coordinating vocational training.(F) Assistance with developing skills to maintain stable employment.
14124.16. (a) (1) Upon appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, the The department shall complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. The analysis shall take into consideration all of the following in assessing capacity to provide a covered housing support services benefit:(A) Providers that are not certified Medi-Cal providers, but are receiving funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing support services.(B) The number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness.(C) A comparison of provider networks in states that have implemented Medicaid benefits to fund housing support services, including any similar Medicaid benefits in California serving different populations.(D) Specific actions the department could take to develop a network of providers meeting the criteria of this section, and an estimated timeline for developing an adequate network, should the analysis conclude that the states network is not yet adequate.(2) The department shall report, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, the outcomes of the independent analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024, so long as an appropriation is made as described in paragraph (1). July 1, 2024.(b) For purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts, or amend existing contracts, on a bid or negotiated basis. Contracts entered into or amended pursuant to this subdivision shall be exempt from Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, and the State Administrative Manual, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(c) (1) The If the independent analysis described in subdivision (a) finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services for the populations identified in paragraph (3) within six months of the completion of the independent analysis described in subdivision (a). analysis.(2) If the independent analysis finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall provide recommendations for building that capacity and a timeline for implementation that is consistent with the findings of the independent analysis.(3) Subject to receipt of any necessary federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary shall be eligible for housing support services if they meet either of the following criteria:(A) The beneficiary is currently experiencing homelessness.(B) The beneficiary is currently in housing, but is at risk of homelessness due to previous experiences with homelessness and requires housing support services to maintain stable housing.(d) Housing support services include all of the following:(1) Housing transition and navigation services.(2) Housing deposits.(3) Housing tenancy and sustaining services.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Homelessness as it corresponds to the term homeless has the same meaning as set forth in Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as that section read on January 1, 2023, except that an individual shall continue to be considered homeless when living in or exiting an institutional setting, even if residing in that institutional setting for longer than 90 days, so long as they were homeless prior to residency.(2) Housing transition and navigation services means evidence-based and best practices that provide outreach to, and engage with, people experiencing homelessness in order to facilitate participation in the program and assist with transitioning to housing. The term includes the following services:(A) Assisting beneficiaries with obtaining local, state, or federal rental assistance or subsidies, and in locating permanent housing with private market landlords or property managers who are willing to accept rental assistance.(B) Assisting beneficiaries in completing housing applications for permanent housing, including obtaining documentation needed to access permanent housing.(C) Screening and assessing the tenants preferences and barriers to successful tenancy.(D) Assisting beneficiaries with applying for benefits to afford their housing.(E) Ensuring that the living environment is safe and ready for move-in.(F) Assisting and arranging for the details of the move, including identifying resources to assist with moving expenses.(G) Developing a housing support crisis plan that includes prevention and early intervention when housing is jeopardized.(H) Assisting the beneficiary to develop skills vital to maintaining permanent housing, including understanding and developing a budget, negotiating a lease, and building a good relationship with a prospective landlord.(3) Housing deposits means one-time expenses for move-in, such as security deposits, payment of utility arrears and startup, and necessary furniture costs.(4) Housing tenancy and sustaining services means services that preserve and maintain a persons housing within their community, including any of the following:(A) Early identification and intervention of behaviors actions that may jeopardize housing security.(B) Education and training on the rights and responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord.(C) Coaching on developing and maintaining key relationships with landlords or property managers.(D) Assistance in resolving disputes with landlords and neighbors to reduce the risk of eviction.(E) Advocacy and linkage with community resources to prevent eviction when housing may become jeopardized.(F) Care coordination and advocacy with health care professionals.(G) Assistance with a housing recertification process.(H) Coordinating with the tenant to review and update a housing support and crisis plan.(I) Assistance with applying for benefits to retain housing.(J) Educating tenants about their benefits and the need for a stable source of income to maintain housing.(K) Coordinating with, and linking individuals to, services and service providers in the community that can assist with maintaining stable housing.(L) Providing supported employment services.(M) Providing skills training on how to maintain a safe and healthy home environment.(5) Supportive employment services means individualized services provided to individuals with disabilities to obtain and keep competitive employment. Supportive employment services include all of the following:(A) Assistance with completing an employment application.(B) Identifying potential workplace accommodations that may be required.(C) Assistance with addressing workplace situations and conflicts.(D) Assistance with transportation needs.(E) Coordinating vocational training.(F) Assistance with developing skills to maintain stable employment.
14124.16. (a) (1) Upon appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, the The department shall complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. The analysis shall take into consideration all of the following in assessing capacity to provide a covered housing support services benefit:(A) Providers that are not certified Medi-Cal providers, but are receiving funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing support services.(B) The number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness.(C) A comparison of provider networks in states that have implemented Medicaid benefits to fund housing support services, including any similar Medicaid benefits in California serving different populations.(D) Specific actions the department could take to develop a network of providers meeting the criteria of this section, and an estimated timeline for developing an adequate network, should the analysis conclude that the states network is not yet adequate.(2) The department shall report, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, the outcomes of the independent analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024, so long as an appropriation is made as described in paragraph (1). July 1, 2024.(b) For purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts, or amend existing contracts, on a bid or negotiated basis. Contracts entered into or amended pursuant to this subdivision shall be exempt from Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, and the State Administrative Manual, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(c) (1) The If the independent analysis described in subdivision (a) finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services for the populations identified in paragraph (3) within six months of the completion of the independent analysis described in subdivision (a). analysis.(2) If the independent analysis finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall provide recommendations for building that capacity and a timeline for implementation that is consistent with the findings of the independent analysis.(3) Subject to receipt of any necessary federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary shall be eligible for housing support services if they meet either of the following criteria:(A) The beneficiary is currently experiencing homelessness.(B) The beneficiary is currently in housing, but is at risk of homelessness due to previous experiences with homelessness and requires housing support services to maintain stable housing.(d) Housing support services include all of the following:(1) Housing transition and navigation services.(2) Housing deposits.(3) Housing tenancy and sustaining services.(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:(1) Homelessness as it corresponds to the term homeless has the same meaning as set forth in Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as that section read on January 1, 2023, except that an individual shall continue to be considered homeless when living in or exiting an institutional setting, even if residing in that institutional setting for longer than 90 days, so long as they were homeless prior to residency.(2) Housing transition and navigation services means evidence-based and best practices that provide outreach to, and engage with, people experiencing homelessness in order to facilitate participation in the program and assist with transitioning to housing. The term includes the following services:(A) Assisting beneficiaries with obtaining local, state, or federal rental assistance or subsidies, and in locating permanent housing with private market landlords or property managers who are willing to accept rental assistance.(B) Assisting beneficiaries in completing housing applications for permanent housing, including obtaining documentation needed to access permanent housing.(C) Screening and assessing the tenants preferences and barriers to successful tenancy.(D) Assisting beneficiaries with applying for benefits to afford their housing.(E) Ensuring that the living environment is safe and ready for move-in.(F) Assisting and arranging for the details of the move, including identifying resources to assist with moving expenses.(G) Developing a housing support crisis plan that includes prevention and early intervention when housing is jeopardized.(H) Assisting the beneficiary to develop skills vital to maintaining permanent housing, including understanding and developing a budget, negotiating a lease, and building a good relationship with a prospective landlord.(3) Housing deposits means one-time expenses for move-in, such as security deposits, payment of utility arrears and startup, and necessary furniture costs.(4) Housing tenancy and sustaining services means services that preserve and maintain a persons housing within their community, including any of the following:(A) Early identification and intervention of behaviors actions that may jeopardize housing security.(B) Education and training on the rights and responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord.(C) Coaching on developing and maintaining key relationships with landlords or property managers.(D) Assistance in resolving disputes with landlords and neighbors to reduce the risk of eviction.(E) Advocacy and linkage with community resources to prevent eviction when housing may become jeopardized.(F) Care coordination and advocacy with health care professionals.(G) Assistance with a housing recertification process.(H) Coordinating with the tenant to review and update a housing support and crisis plan.(I) Assistance with applying for benefits to retain housing.(J) Educating tenants about their benefits and the need for a stable source of income to maintain housing.(K) Coordinating with, and linking individuals to, services and service providers in the community that can assist with maintaining stable housing.(L) Providing supported employment services.(M) Providing skills training on how to maintain a safe and healthy home environment.(5) Supportive employment services means individualized services provided to individuals with disabilities to obtain and keep competitive employment. Supportive employment services include all of the following:(A) Assistance with completing an employment application.(B) Identifying potential workplace accommodations that may be required.(C) Assistance with addressing workplace situations and conflicts.(D) Assistance with transportation needs.(E) Coordinating vocational training.(F) Assistance with developing skills to maintain stable employment.
14124.16. (a) (1) Upon appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, the The department shall complete an independent analysis to determine whether network adequacy exists to obtain federal approval for a covered Medi-Cal benefit that provides housing support services. The analysis shall take into consideration all of the following in assessing capacity to provide a covered housing support services benefit:
(A) Providers that are not certified Medi-Cal providers, but are receiving funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing support services.
(B) The number of providers in relation to each regions or countys number of people experiencing homelessness.
(C) A comparison of provider networks in states that have implemented Medicaid benefits to fund housing support services, including any similar Medicaid benefits in California serving different populations.
(D) Specific actions the department could take to develop a network of providers meeting the criteria of this section, and an estimated timeline for developing an adequate network, should the analysis conclude that the states network is not yet adequate.
(2) The department shall report, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, the outcomes of the independent analysis to the Legislature by January 1, 2024, so long as an appropriation is made as described in paragraph (1). July 1, 2024.
(b) For purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts, or amend existing contracts, on a bid or negotiated basis. Contracts entered into or amended pursuant to this subdivision shall be exempt from Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, and the State Administrative Manual, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.
(c) (1) The If the independent analysis described in subdivision (a) finds that the state has sufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall seek any necessary federal approvals for a Medi-Cal benefit to cover housing support services for the populations identified in paragraph (3) within six months of the completion of the independent analysis described in subdivision (a). analysis.
(2) If the independent analysis finds that the state has insufficient network capacity to meet state and federal guidelines to create a new housing support services benefit, the department shall provide recommendations for building that capacity and a timeline for implementation that is consistent with the findings of the independent analysis.
(3) Subject to receipt of any necessary federal approvals, a Medi-Cal beneficiary shall be eligible for housing support services if they meet either of the following criteria:
(A) The beneficiary is currently experiencing homelessness.
(B) The beneficiary is currently in housing, but is at risk of homelessness due to previous experiences with homelessness and requires housing support services to maintain stable housing.
(d) Housing support services include all of the following:
(1) Housing transition and navigation services.
(2) Housing deposits.
(3) Housing tenancy and sustaining services.
(e) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Homelessness as it corresponds to the term homeless has the same meaning as set forth in Section 578.3 of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as that section read on January 1, 2023, except that an individual shall continue to be considered homeless when living in or exiting an institutional setting, even if residing in that institutional setting for longer than 90 days, so long as they were homeless prior to residency.
(2) Housing transition and navigation services means evidence-based and best practices that provide outreach to, and engage with, people experiencing homelessness in order to facilitate participation in the program and assist with transitioning to housing. The term includes the following services:
(A) Assisting beneficiaries with obtaining local, state, or federal rental assistance or subsidies, and in locating permanent housing with private market landlords or property managers who are willing to accept rental assistance.
(B) Assisting beneficiaries in completing housing applications for permanent housing, including obtaining documentation needed to access permanent housing.
(C) Screening and assessing the tenants preferences and barriers to successful tenancy.
(D) Assisting beneficiaries with applying for benefits to afford their housing.
(E) Ensuring that the living environment is safe and ready for move-in.
(F) Assisting and arranging for the details of the move, including identifying resources to assist with moving expenses.
(G) Developing a housing support crisis plan that includes prevention and early intervention when housing is jeopardized.
(H) Assisting the beneficiary to develop skills vital to maintaining permanent housing, including understanding and developing a budget, negotiating a lease, and building a good relationship with a prospective landlord.
(3) Housing deposits means one-time expenses for move-in, such as security deposits, payment of utility arrears and startup, and necessary furniture costs.
(4) Housing tenancy and sustaining services means services that preserve and maintain a persons housing within their community, including any of the following:
(A) Early identification and intervention of behaviors actions that may jeopardize housing security.
(B) Education and training on the rights and responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord.
(C) Coaching on developing and maintaining key relationships with landlords or property managers.
(D) Assistance in resolving disputes with landlords and neighbors to reduce the risk of eviction.
(E) Advocacy and linkage with community resources to prevent eviction when housing may become jeopardized.
(F) Care coordination and advocacy with health care professionals.
(G) Assistance with a housing recertification process.
(H) Coordinating with the tenant to review and update a housing support and crisis plan.
(I) Assistance with applying for benefits to retain housing.
(J) Educating tenants about their benefits and the need for a stable source of income to maintain housing.
(K) Coordinating with, and linking individuals to, services and service providers in the community that can assist with maintaining stable housing.
(L) Providing supported employment services.
(M) Providing skills training on how to maintain a safe and healthy home environment.
(5) Supportive employment services means individualized services provided to individuals with disabilities to obtain and keep competitive employment. Supportive employment services include all of the following:
(A) Assistance with completing an employment application.
(B) Identifying potential workplace accommodations that may be required.
(C) Assistance with addressing workplace situations and conflicts.
(D) Assistance with transportation needs.
(E) Coordinating vocational training.
(F) Assistance with developing skills to maintain stable employment.