The original instrument and the following digest, which constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument, were prepared by Brandi Cannon.
DIGEST
SB 137 Original 2021 Regular Session Talbot
Proposed law provides legislative intent to establish a Medicaid managed long-term care program
(MLTSS), for seniors who receive or are at high risk for receiving long-term services in the
community or in an institution. Proposed law establishes legislative intent to improve access and
provide choices for seniors receiving long-term services.
Proposed law provides that the MLTSS program applies to the elderly and individuals with adult-
onset disabilities and dual-eligibles who receive Medicaid and Medicare and are not receiving long-
term care. Proposed law does not apply to Medicaid recipients eligible and receiving services due
to an intellectual or developmental disability.
Proposed law requires the secretary of LDH to develop and submit an application to CMS to
implement the MLTSS program no later than January 1, 2022. Proposed law requires the application
to include and expound upon certain enumerated elements set forth by CMS to achieve the greatest
opportunity for community placement and engagement.
Proposed law requires LDH to issue a request for proposals within 60 days of submitting the MLTSS
application to CMS. Proposed law requires the request for proposals to have minimum
qualifications, including demonstrated success in another state, provision of all Medicaid covered
services, appointment of an ombudsman, establishment of a rate floor, timely provider payments,
and continued eligibility determinations by LDH. Proposed law requires the secretary to select at
least two, but no more than three, contractors to manage the MLTSS program.
Proposed law requires the MLTSS program to be implemented no later than July 1, 2023.
Proposed law provides that sources of funding come from monies dedicated though the Medical
Assistance Trust Fund, the Medicaid managed care premium tax, or other monies allowed by law.
Proposed law provides for fiscal and programmatic audits by the legislative auditor at least one year
prior to the expiration of any MLTSS contract. Proposed law provides for rulemaking.
Effective August 1, 2021.
(Adds R.S. 46:451)