SB3923 97TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

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97TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
State of Illinois
2011 and 2012
SB3923

Introduced 5/30/2012, by Sen. Michael W. Frerichs

SYNOPSIS AS INTRODUCED:

New Act

Creates the Seniors Pharmaceutical Assistance Relief Program Act. Provides that it is the purpose of this Act to ensure that the State's senior population has access to affordable prescription drugs. Requires the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, beginning July 1, 2012, to establish and administer a Seniors Pharmaceutical Assistance Relief Program with the cooperation of local area agencies on aging. Contains provisions concerning eligibility standards; application standards; and rulemaking. Effective July 1, 2012.

FISCAL NOTE ACT MAY APPLY

A BILL FOR

AN ACT concerning public aid.

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly:

Section 1. Short title. This Act may be cited as the Seniors Pharmaceutical Assistance Relief Program Act.

Section 5. Purpose. It is the purpose of this Act to ensure that the State's senior population has access to affordable prescription drugs.

Section 10. Creation of program. Beginning July 1, 2012, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services shall establish and administer a pharmacy assistance program entitled the Seniors Pharmaceutical Assistance Relief Program. Local area agencies on aging shall cooperate with the Department in this endeavor.

Section 15. Eligibility. To become a beneficiary under the Program established under this Act, a person must:

(1) Be 65 years of age or older.

(2) Be domiciled in this State.

(3) Have income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.

(4) Apply for federal Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) under Medicare Part D.

(5) Have maximum household assets of $13,070 if single, or $26,120 if married.

Future asset limitations established by the Department under this Program shall be updated, if necessary, to match the asset limitations set under the federal Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) program.

Section 20. Program applications. Applications for benefits under the Program shall be submitted electronically to the local Area Agency on Aging. Applications must be filed during the time period prescribed by the Department.

Section 25. Rules. The Department may adopt rules regarding applications, counting of income, the type of prescription drugs covered, and any other rules necessary for the cost-efficient operation of the Program established under this Act.

Section 99. Effective date. This Act takes effect July 1, 2012.