H.R.1343: Protecting Married Seniors from Impoverishment Act

The Protecting Married Seniors from Impoverishment Act would make permanent provisions regarding Medicaid eligibility that protect against spousal impoverishment for recipients of home and community-based services (HCBS). Medicaid provides HCBS, also sometimes referred to as long-term care, only to individuals who spend down most of their assets. Currently, spouses of individuals receiving Medicaid coverage for nursing home care to keep a portion of income and resources to avoid impoverishment. However, this provision is structured to be reauthorized every few years, creating uncertainty for families. This bill would codify and perpetuate a long-standing law.

S.2000 introduced by Sen. Robert Casey is the Senate companion bill.