This assembly bill was introduced by Assembly Member Nazarian on February 17, 2021. The current legislation, subject to funding approval by the Legislature, sets forth the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) program. Administered by the California Department of Aging, this program aims to furnish information to consumers and their families regarding available long-term services and supports (LTSS) programs. Its purpose is to aid older adults, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities in accessing local LTSS programs. Through an executive order, the Governor has mandated the development of a master plan for aging, serving as a guide for implementing strategies and partnerships that foster healthy aging and prepare the state for demographic changes. The order requires the Secretary of California Health and Human Services to convene a Master Plan for Aging Stakeholder Advisory Committee, inclusive of a Long-Term Care Subcommittee. The existing law mandates the secretary, in collaboration with the Director of the California Department of Aging, to spearhead the development and execution of the master plan outlined in the executive order. Furthermore, the law necessitates the secretary and the director, aided by the workgroup, to collaborate with specified agencies as required to identify policies, efficiencies, and strategies essential for master plan implementation. The workgroup is also tasked with gathering input and information to facilitate the implementation of the master plan.
This proposed legislation aims to establish the California Long-Term Services and Supports Benefits Board (LTSS Board), comprising 10 designated members, with the Treasurer serving as the chair, the Secretary of California Health and Human Services as the vice chair, and three members appointed by the Governor. The bill outlines the LTSS Board's responsibility to oversee and invest revenue placed in the newly created California Long-Term Services and Supports Benefits Trust Fund (LTSS Trust), housed in the State Treasury. The purpose of this fund, subject to appropriation, is to finance long-term services and supports for eligible individuals. Additionally, the bill mandates the Long Term Supports and Services Subcommittee of the Master Plan on Aging to continuously offer advice and recommendations to the LTSS Board. Furthermore, the legislation calls for the establishment of an LTSS Benefit Task Force by the department, or the utilization of an existing board, commission, committee, or task force, specifically focusing on addressing LTSS benefit needs within the State of California. The bill requires the department to submit a report to the Legislature by July 1, 2023, detailing the specified findings and recommendations of the LTSS Benefit Task Force.