Rep. Subramanyam Defends the Most Vulnerable with Medicaid PNA Modernization Act

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) has introduced the Medicaid PNA Modernization Act to increase federal Personal Needs Allowance (PNA) for seniors and disabled Americans who rely on Medicaid.

"Our seniors and the most vulnerable members of our community deserve a life of dignity," said Congressman Subramanyam. "The cost of care is drastically increasing while government assistance is still stuck in the past. Between these rising costs and the dismantling of Medicaid in the Big Ugly Bill, our seniors and disabled neighbors are struggling. They should not have to endure an outdated PNA any longer that leaves them unable to afford basic necessities."

The H.R. 2883 Medicaid PNA Modernization Act would increase the personal needs allowance from $30 to $60 for individuals and from $60 to $120 for couples per month. This is the first increase to the federal minimum PNA for individuals since 1988. Seniors and disabled Americans can use the PNA for personal expenses such as haircuts, vitamins, and basic clothing items.

The Medicaid PNA Modernization Act is endorsed by Arc of Northern Virginia, Arc of the United States, National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, Medicare Rights Center for Quality Long-Term Care, Justice in Aging, and Long Term Care Community. Congressman Subramanyam is focused on how Virginians are being affected by rising costs and will continue to introduce legislation that protects the pocketbooks of our community.

View the Medicaid PNA Modernization Act here.