PACE Expanded Act Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly Expanded Act
Impact
The bill proposes amendments to the Social Security Act that would prioritize timely access to PACE for high-need and high-cost individuals not currently eligible for the program. It includes provisions for prorated payments by the state for individuals who enroll mid-month, ensuring that financial compensation aligns with actual service periods. By potentially expanding the program and streamlining administrative processes, HB6590 is set to significantly impact how elderly care is delivered and funded, especially in underserved communities.
Summary
House Bill 6590, known as the 'Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly Expanded Act', aims to enhance access to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). This legislation introduces provisions for 'anytime enrollment,' allowing individuals eligible for PACE to enroll at any time during the month, which can lead to increased flexibility for recipients in need of immediate care. Additionally, the bill stipulates that enrollment will take effect immediately upon submission of enrollment agreements to the corresponding PACE providers, expediting the care access process.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB6590 may arise from concerns about the effectiveness of PACE expansions. Critics could question the program’s ability to meet the increased demand while maintaining high standards of care. There are also concerns regarding the gradual feasibility of expanding the program to rural and underserved areas without adequate resources. Furthermore, while the bill is designed to reduce total care costs and improve health outcomes, stakeholders will need to scrutinize its implementation to ensure it indeed delivers on these promises without undue strain on Medicaid and Medicare systems.
Combating Cartels on Social Media Act of 2023 This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to report and implement a strategy to combat the use of social media by transnational criminal organizations to recruit individuals in the United States to support illicit activities in the United States or countries near a U.S. international border. DHS must also identify a designee within U.S. Customs and Border Protection to receive, process, and disseminate information about these social media recruitment activities. The information must be disseminated to federal, tribal, state, and local entities to support appropriate government functions, such as providing actionable intelligence to law enforcement.