Adult foster homes could raise their capacity from four to five residents, under a bill approved March 19 by the House Health Care and Human Services Policy and Oversight Committee.
Currently an adult foster care holder can have five persons only under special circumstances, such as an emergency crisis.
Sponsored by Rep. Gene Pelowski Jr. (DFL-Winona), HF1114 awaits action by the House Health Care and Human Services Finance Division. A companion, SF1155, sponsored by Sen. Sharon Erickson Ropes (DFL-Winona), awaits action by the Senate Health, Housing and Family Security Committee.
Dennis Theede, executive director of Home and Community Options Inc., said providers over the last five years have continually struggled with their budgets. Considering Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s suggested 3 percent cut to their programs, the change would be a compromise while maintaining stability in services, he said.
The alternative is cutting the number of staff, which would decrease the number of community outings and other activities for those with disabilities. Adding a fifth person is “not a good long-term fix,” but it would allow providers more flexibility in where they make cuts, Theede added.
Heidi Hamilton, a program administrator with the Human Services Department, said the change would only occur if there is a legislative reduction in adult foster care. The counties would negotiate with providers on how those cuts would occur, she said.
Kirsten Anderson-Stembridge, policy and advocacy coordinator for Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, said providers should be able to recoup the savings. “We are very fearful in this environment, as we anticipate cuts,” but want to provide quality service to those with disabilities, she added.
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