HFS-MEDICAID-NURSING HOMES

Amends the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that under the medical assistance program, beginning January 1, 2009, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services may reimburse a skilled nursing facility, intermediate care facility, or institution for mental diseases providing long-term care services, based upon patient days reported in the facility's most recent cost report, for spending incurred to provide health care benefits to its employees serving the vulnerable populations residing in the facility, in order to attract and retain a qualified and healthy workforce. Provides that subject to available appropriations, the reimbursement shall be made according to certain criteria. Provides that the reimbursement is subject to audit by the Department and shall be reduced or eliminated in the case of any facility that does not honor its commitment to increase spending to improve the health of its employees or that decreases such spending. Effective July 1, 2009.