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Bill would delay adult family foster care rate‑tier changes and create task force to study impacts
Summary
House File 18,94 would push back implementation of new adult family foster care flat rate tiers to 2029 and create a task force to recommend a sustainable payment model; providers warned that many family homes could close under the current schedule.
House File 18,94, introduced by Representative Vanick, would delay implementation of flat rate tiers for adult family foster care until 2029 and establish a task force to study payment methodology, recommended statutory changes and monitoring approaches.
Johnny Tavaette (ARM) and adult family foster providers told the committee the 2026 schedule for switching those services out of the disability waiver rate system (DWRS) and into a flat, tiered rate structure risks making many family‑run homes financially unsustainable. Tavaette said providers have no clarity about the final rates, that MinChoices data underpinning tiers remains delayed, and that “not 1 indicated they could continue doing this work under the new rates beyond 12 months.” Adult family foster provider Alicia Olson described day‑to‑day household costs and care responsibilities, warning that the change could force placements and closures of homes where residents have lived for decades.
Nut graf: Sponsors argued the delay would allow a task force of providers, DHS representatives and people receiving services to produce a report with a payment methodology, recommended legislative changes, monitoring approaches and an implementation plan by Aug. 1, 2027. They said the delay would avoid abrupt disruptions to homes and individuals.
Action: The committee laid the bill over for possible omnibus inclusion after testimony urging a longer timeline and a seat at the table for family providers.
Ending: Sponsor said the bill is intended to protect a cost‑effective service option and allow time to craft a sustainable rate model with provider participation.
