Louisiana House Bill HCR3

Louisiana 2020 1st Special Session

• Introduced: 6/1/20
• Refer: 6/1/20

Caption

Provides relative to the Medicaid Trust Fund for the Elderly (Item #13) (OR +$24,105,951 SD EX See Note)

Impact

The passage of HCR3 would directly impact the Medicaid Trust Fund for the Elderly by allowing a portion of its principal amount to be appropriated, specifically aimed at re-basing nursing home rates. These adjustments in funding are vital as they provide necessary financial support to maintain quality care in nursing facilities, which have been significantly affected by economic pressures and the need for sustainable operations. By reallocating these funds, the resolution intends to ensure that nursing homes can continue to serve the elderly population effectively without compromising on care standards.

Summary

HCR3, introduced by Representative Marcelle during the 2020 First Extraordinary Session, aims to provide legislative consent for the appropriation of the Medicaid Trust Fund for the Elderly for the Fiscal Year 2020-2021. The resolution highlights that the fund, established in 2000, has spending limitations for specific purposes, including the re-basing of nursing home rates according to the state's Medicaid plan. This bill specifically seeks to make the principal amount of the trust fund available to address the financial needs of nursing homes which play a crucial role in elderly care within the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HCR3 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for elderly care and healthcare funding. Lawmakers recognize the importance of sustaining the financial viability of nursing homes to provide adequate care for the aging population. However, there may be underlying concerns about the sustainability of funding sources, particularly those derived from proceeds related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, as ongoing reliance on such sources may not guarantee long-term financial support.

Contention

While the bill seems to receive broad support in the context of assisting elderly care facilities, members of the legislature may raise questions about the adequacy of the funding and the implications of using trust fund resources. Notably, concerns could surface regarding the balance between appropriating funds for immediate needs versus building a resilient funding model for the future. Overall, HCR3 acts as a vital mechanism for addressing immediate financial requirements in nursing home operations while inviting dialogue on the long-term strategies for elderly care funding.