On June 27th, Governor Brown signed the 2012-2013 state budget package, which will close a $15.7 billion budget gap by implementing cuts and changes to various programs, and upon voter approval, implementing several temporary tax increases. Below is a summary of some of the proposals that PASC has tracked throughout the budget process, including cuts and changes to IHSS, Medi-Cal, and services received by individuals eligible for both Medicare and Medi-Cal. Further information on how the cuts and changes will be implemented will be forthcoming.
Across the Board Reduction of IHSS Service Hours
Passed and Signed into Law
The governor proposed to reduce IHSS hours for all consumers by 7%, effective August 1st. The senate and assembly voted to reject this proposal, and to instead extend the 3.6% reduction implemented in February 2011, through June 30, 2013. Consumers will continue to be able to decide themselves how to apply the 3.6% reduction to their services, and the reduction will continue to be applied first to any documented unmet needs, other than protective supervision.
Although the intent of the budget was to seamlessly extend the 3.6% reduction, the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) had already implemented changes to its case management system to automatically restore hours to all consumers on the original sunset date of June 30th. As a result, consumers have had their hours temporarily restored during the month of July. However, CDSS will soon be mailing notices to all consumers letting them know that their hours will be reduced again effective August 1st.
The 3.6% reduction in service hours cannot be appealed. However, consumers maintain the right to request a reassessment of hours any time their needs change, or if they feel they are not receiving the hours of care they need.
Elimination of Domestic and Related Services
Not Included in Budget
The governor proposed to eliminate IHSS hours for domestic and related services for consumers residing in shared living arrangements, effective July 1st. This proposal was rejected by the senate and assembly, and was not included in the final budget.
Coordinated Care Initiative
Passed and Signed into Law
See article below for additional information.
Medi-Cal Co-Pays
Approved and Signed into Law
The new budget will implement two new co-pays related to Medi-Cal beginning January 1, 2013. Pending federal approval, Medi-Cal recipients will be responsible for paying a $15 co-pay for non-emergency visits to the emergency room, and a $3.10 co-pay for any non-preferred prescription drugs.
Medi-Cal Enrollment Period
Not Included in Budget
The governor proposed to establish an annual open enrollment period for Medi-Cal recipients who are enrolled in managed care plans, and wish to change plans. This proposal was rejected by the senate and assembly, and was not included in the final budget.
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As the IHSS public authority, one of PASC's responsibilities is to provide access to free trainings and educational seminars for consumers and providers throughout L.A. County on a variety of topics/issues. In an effort to improve our training programs, PASC is asking for consumer and provider input on our current training programs, and areas/topics where other trainings would be helpful. 