NJ
New Jersey Assembly Bill A4539

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4539

Introduced
9/22/22  

Caption

Increases hourly limit of reimbursable personal care assistant services under NJ WorkAbility Program.

Impact

The bill is expected to have a substantial impact on New Jersey state laws governing healthcare and support services for individuals with disabilities. The NJ WorkAbility Program plays a critical role in providing these individuals with access to Medicaid, which covers their healthcare needs while allowing them to work without jeopardizing their eligibility. By increasing the available hours for personal care assistance, the bill not only aligns state policy with the federal 'Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act' but also supports the state’s goal of improving employment outcomes for disabled residents.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4539 aims to enhance the NJ WorkAbility Program by increasing the limit of reimbursable personal care assistant services from 40 hours to 112 hours per calendar work week. This bill is particularly significant for employed individuals with disabilities who have previously faced strict limitations that hindered their ability to receive adequate support. By extending the hours, the bill intends to provide greater flexibility and assistance to individuals striving to maintain employment despite their disabilities, thereby promoting workforce participation among this demographic.

Contention

Notable debates surrounding A4539 relate to fiscal impacts and the sustainability of funding for the extended services. Some lawmakers express concerns about the financial burden this increase may place on the state Medicaid budget and whether the necessary federal funds can be secured. Additionally, there are discussions on balancing quality of care with the increased demand on personal care services, raising questions about the availability of qualified aides and the potential for strain on existing programs. Proponents argue that the benefits of increased workforce participation and the accompanying reduction in unemployment among disabled residents would offset initial costs.

Companion Bills

NJ S1497

Same As Increases hourly limit of reimbursable personal care assistant services under NJ WorkAbility Program.

Previously Filed As

NJ A3087

Increases hourly limit of reimbursable personal care assistant services under NJ WorkAbility Program.

NJ S1999

Increases hourly limit of reimbursable personal care assistant services under NJ WorkAbility Program.

NJ S1497

Increases hourly limit of reimbursable personal care assistant services under NJ WorkAbility Program.

NJ A487

Revises eligibility requirements for NJ Workability Program and Personal Assistance Services Program.

NJ A3638

Revises eligibility requirements for NJ Workability Program and Personal Assistance Services Program.

NJ A4090

Increases cap on personal care assistant services from 40 hours to 91 hours per week for Medicaid beneficiary determined clinically eligible for nursing facility level of care.

NJ A5173

Requires hourly reimbursement rate for home health aide services provided through Statewide Respite Care Program and Jersey Assistance for Community Caregiving Program to be no less than Medicaid fee-for-service rate for personal care services; makes appropriation.

NJ S3705

Increases cap on personal care assistant services from 40 hours to 91 hours per week for Medicaid beneficiary determined clinically eligible for nursing facility level of care.

NJ A3556

Requires DOT to establish paratransit brokerage program to consolidate provisions of paratransit services under State Medicaid program and NJT Access Link.

NJ A4613

Requires several State agencies to review and increase, if authorized, income eligibility standards for certain public assistance, school nutrition, and higher education student financial assistance programs; makes an appropriation.

Similar Bills

UT SB0257

Medicaid Accounts Amendments

UT HB0247

Child Health Care Coverage Amendments

AR SB518

To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act; And To Update Language And Definitions To Reflect Changes Within The Healthcare System;.

AR SB515

To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act.

UT HB0463

Medicaid Funding Amendments

NJ A3334

Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.

NJ S2416

Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.

NJ S3495

Provides for presumptive eligibility for home and community-based services and services provided through program of all-inclusive care for the elderly under Medicaid.