Medicaid eligibility assistance for persons with disabilities.

(1) LEGISLATIVE INTENT.—It is the intent of the Legislature to create a program that supports and enables persons with disabilities to become Medicaid eligible. The Department of Children and Families shall be responsible for this program; however, all agencies with any duties related to Medicaid are responsible for collaborating with the department and the independent contractor selected to implement the program.

(2) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section, unless otherwise specified, the term:

(a) “Agency” means any state or local governmental entity.

(b) “Independent contractor” means a nonprofit organization with experience operating an information and referral program that includes person-centered services to successfully navigate eligibility procedures for state and federal assistance.

(c) “Person with disabilities” means any person who has one or more permanent physical or mental limitations which restrict his or her ability to perform the normal activities of daily living and impede his or her capacity to live independently with relatives or friends without the provision of community-based services.

(3) ELIGIBILITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.—

(a) The Eligibility Assistance Program is created within the Department of Children and Families to offer information, referral, and navigation services to persons with disabilities to initiate and successfully complete the actions required to secure eligibility for Medicaid and other community-based services enabling such persons to remain in their homes and communities.

(b) The program shall be operated by an independent contractor selected based on the following criteria:

1. A tax-exempt organization incorporated in this state and in good standing with the Division of Corporations of the Department of State.

2. At least 20 years’ experience operating local or regional programs that provide services for persons with disabilities.

3. Capability to operate call center and online access points.