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WPAS Bill Analysis:
The Medicaid buy-in bills, SB 5423 and HB 1390
The Washington Protection and Advocacy System (WPAS) is the nonprofit organization designated by the state, pursuant to federal law, to advocate for and protect the rights of persons with developmental disabilities, mental illness and other disabilities.
The Washington Protection and Advocacy System (WPAS) supports SB 5423 and HB 1390 and believes that they represent an opportunity for the state of Washington to provide people with disabilities the chance to become more self-sufficient. Studies indicate that up to 75% of people with disabilities are not working even though most have indicated that they wish to have a job. These bills will allow individuals to attempt to return to work, to increase their financial security, and decrease their dependence on government.
Implementation of the federal Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 (TWWIIA) is coming to Washington within the next three years. This program will have a major impact on people with disabilities in the state if – and only if – the Medicaid Buy-in is in place. TWWIIA will provide Washingtonians with disabilities the opportunity to take advantage of a wide range of employment services that will help them achieve their goal of returning to work. However, one of the most significant barriers to employment for people with disabilities is the threat of losing the health care supports they need. Without the Medicaid Buy-in, people with disabilities will not have the opportunity to take advantage of the federally funded TWWIIA program because the risk of losing their health benefits is too great.
People with disabilities want to work. The state wants to help people with disabilities find gainful employment, and decrease their dependence on government. SB 5423 and HB 1390 are cost effective pieces of legislation that will allow the state to provide support for people with disabilities as they attempt to return to work.
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