Legislative Update – May 1, 2025

• By: Ben Hawkins
• On: 05/01/2025 09:59:04
• In: Legislative/Government Affairs

The Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services recently voted on two MHCA-supported bills “Ought Not to Pass” (ONTP), halting their progress for the session.
 

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LD 1489 – Resolve, to Provide Stability to Long-term Care Facility Funding
LD 1489 proposed a retroactive cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to January 1, 2025, a comprehensive rate study by January 2026, and guardrails against rate reductions. Despite bipartisan sponsorship and MHCA support, the HHS Committee voted the bill ONTP on April 25.

LD 1345 – Resolve, Directing DHHS to Timely Provide Interim Settlement Payments
LD 1345 would have required DHHS to issue 75% interim payments within 90 days of receiving cost reports and to amend its rules accordingly. The HHS Committee voted the bill ONTP on April 30.

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Next Steps
MHCA is disappointed by the committee's actions but remains focused on advancing funding reforms. May will be a pivotal month as the Legislature turns to budget negotiations. MHCA will continue advocating for rate adequacy and timely reimbursement through the appropriations process and urges members to stay engaged.