Opinion ID: 1203073
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: DHSS has statutory authority to utilize federal funds provided for C.G.A.'s care.

Text: C.G.A. argues that [n]o state statute or regulation authorizes [DHSS] to utilize C.G.A.'s social security benefits to pay for the cost of his institutionalization. However, AS 47.10.230(b) states, in part, The department may pay the costs of maintenance which are necessary to assure adequate care of the child, and may accept funds from the federal government that are granted to assist in carrying out the purposes of this chapter, or that are paid under contract entered into with a federal department or agency. This statute allows DHSS to accept funds from the federal government. Under the terms of the statute, DHSS's use of these funds must comport with federal law. As C.G.A. concedes, federal statutes and regulations allow states to act as payee for social security beneficiaries. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.2021(b)(7) (1990). [13] Given the clarity and specificity of AS 47.10.230(b) and 20 C.F.R. § 404.2021(b)(7), we find no merit to C.G.A.'s argument that DHSS may only proceed pursuant to regulations adopted under the Administrative Procedure Act. Under the terms of AS 47.10.230(b), however, DHSS may only make such use of C.G.A.'s funds as authorized by federal law. [14]