Combating Deceptive Practices in Assistance Programs Act of 2026
Summary
HB7713, titled the Combating Deceptive Practices in Assistance Programs Act of 2026, would amend the Medicaid statute to narrow eligibility for personal care services. Specifically, it would require that an individual be unable to perform at least three activities of daily living before qualifying for these services under section 1905(a)(24) of the Social Security Act. The bill ties that standard to the Internal Revenue Code definition of activities of daily living and would apply the change to Medicaid services furnished on or after January 12, 2027.
In practical terms, the bill would change federal Medicaid law by adding a more specific functional-need threshold for personal care services. That would likely affect state Medicaid programs, which administer these services within federal rules, by limiting the pool of beneficiaries eligible for assistance and potentially reducing service utilization and spending. It would also affect individuals who currently qualify for personal care services under broader state or program standards but do not meet the new three-ADL threshold.
Impact
The bill would amend Title XIX of the Social Security Act, specifically section 1905(a)(24), to impose a new federal eligibility condition for Medicaid personal care services. States would need to align their Medicaid plans and service determinations with the revised federal standard for services provided on or after January 12, 2027. The change could reduce eligibility for some beneficiaries and may require states and managed care entities to update assessment procedures, eligibility rules, and administrative guidance.
Sentiment
There is limited recorded discussion or voting history available, so overall sentiment cannot be measured from committee debate or floor action. The bill’s title and structure suggest a policy focus on tightening eligibility and preventing misuse of assistance programs, which may appeal to supporters concerned about program integrity and cost control. At the same time, the absence of recorded support or opposition in the provided materials means no clear consensus can be inferred.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the stricter eligibility threshold for personal care services. Supporters may view the three-activities-of-daily-living standard as a way to target services to individuals with greater need and reduce improper or overly broad access. Opponents may argue that the change could deny assistance to people with significant but not extreme functional limitations, shift costs to families or other systems, and create administrative complexity for states determining eligibility. No specific committee objections or amendments are provided in the available record.