The Montana Legislature convened on March 31, 2025, to introduce House Bill 934, titled the "Senior and Long-Term Care Home and Community-Based Services Access and Stabilization Act." This bill, sponsored by Representative M. Caferro, aims to enhance access to assisted living services for seniors and individuals with disabilities while addressing the significant waiting list for the Big Sky Waiver program.

The primary objective of House Bill 934 is to shift funding for assisted living services from the Big Sky Waiver program to the Community First Choice Option program. This transition is expected to generate savings in state general funds, which would then be redirected to assist the over 300 individuals currently awaiting services under the Big Sky Waiver program. The bill also seeks to establish clearer procedures for calculating room and board costs associated with assisted living facilities, a policy that has not been updated since 2009.

During the introduction of the bill, discussions highlighted the pressing need for improved access to home and community-based services, which are designed to allow individuals to remain in their homes rather than being placed in institutional settings. The bill's proponents argue that the funding switch could significantly reduce the waiting list for essential services, thereby improving the quality of life for many Montanans.

However, the bill has not been without its critics. Some stakeholders have raised concerns regarding the potential impact on existing services and the adequacy of funding for the Community First Choice Option program. Debates are expected to continue as the bill moves through the legislative process, with amendments likely to be proposed to address these concerns.

The implications of House Bill 934 are significant, as it not only seeks to alleviate the backlog of individuals waiting for care but also aims to modernize the funding structure for assisted living services in Montana. Experts suggest that if passed, the bill could serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges in long-term care accessibility.

As the legislative session progresses, the fate of House Bill 934 will be closely monitored, with potential outcomes ranging from its passage, which could lead to improved care access, to amendments that may alter its original intent. The next steps will involve committee reviews and further discussions among lawmakers, stakeholders, and the public.