2023 Legislative Summary
The Residential Providers Association of Minnesota (“RPAMN”) had an incredibly successful legislative session in 2023, particularly considering the organization is not yet two years old. RPAMN’s leadership was ever-present at the State Capitol, often testifying multiple times a week on proposals that would impact its members.
RPAMN also invested significant time and energy in building relationships with other trade associations and advocacy organizations and quickly became a significant player in the human services community at the Capitol. In the end, RPAMN was successful in securing an approximately 12% baseline rate increase for customized living providers serving individuals on the Community Access for Disability Inclusion (“CADI”) and Brain Injury (“BI”) waivers. RPAMN also secured support for significant changes to the community residential setting (“CRS”) moratorium exception as well as language protecting providers from payment recapture resulting from the widespread confusion over the rollout of the “Under 55 Rules” for customized living.
RPAMN monitored and, in partnership with other Medicaid service providers, raised concerns with several employment related proposals, including the Paid Family & Medical Leave Act and helped secure some financial support for providers who will be impacted by the new payroll tax. While there remains significant work to be done around assisted living licensing and integrated community supports (“ICS”), the impact of RPAMN’s legislative advocacy efforts cannot be understated.
Notable Accomplishments
Customized Living Rate Increase
A permanent rate increase for customized living providers serving individuals on the CADI/BI waivers, totaling $35 million in FY 24-25 and $89 million in FY 26-27. The budget spreadsheet refers to this as a 12% increase.
Customized Living Federal Compliance
A one-time appropriation of $5 million to cover any repayment obligations to the federal government relating to the placement of individuals under the age of 55 in customized living settings in violation of the state waiver plan and federal HCBS rule and language holding providers harmless for any potential overpayment.
Community Residential Setting (CRS) Transition
A six month extension of the CRS transition window as well as the removal of the July 1, 2022 resident location deadline along with a one-time appropriation of $500,000 to Hennepin County to facilitate the CRS transition.
Assisted Living Licensing Regulatory Review
A one-time appropriation of $150,000 to support DHS’ work in a regulatory review work group focusing on small assisted living providers.