U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam announced on Mar. 10 the introduction of the Medicaid PNA Modernization Act, which aims to raise the federal Personal Needs Allowance for seniors and disabled Americans who depend on Medicaid.
The legislation is intended to address rising costs of care and ensure that vulnerable populations can afford basic necessities. The Personal Needs Allowance (PNA) is used by Medicaid recipients in long-term care facilities for personal expenses such as haircuts, vitamins, and clothing.
According to Subramanyam, “Our seniors and the most vulnerable members of our community deserve a life of dignity. The cost of care is drastically increasing while government assistance is still stuck in the past. Between these rising costs and the dismantling of Medicaid in the Big Ugly Bill, our seniors and disabled neighbors are struggling. They should not have to endure an outdated PNA any longer that leaves them unable to afford basic necessities.”
The proposed H.R. 2883 would double the minimum monthly PNA from $30 to $60 for individuals and from $60 to $120 for couples. This marks the first increase in the federal minimum PNA for individuals since 1988.
The bill has received endorsements from several organizations, including Arc of Northern Virginia, Arc of the United States, National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, Medicare Rights Center for Quality Long-Term Care, Justice in Aging, and Long Term Care Community.
Subramanyam said he remains focused on how Virginians are affected by rising costs and will continue introducing legislation aimed at protecting residents’ finances.
