Bill > HB1721

This bill establishes a minimum base wage for personal attendants working under the Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) waiver program, which helps people with disabilities receive in-home care. Starting September 1, 2025, personal attendants must be paid at least $15 per hour or the federal minimum wage, whichever is higher. For subsequent state fiscal bienniums, the base wage will be adjusted using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), which measures changes in the cost of living. On August 1 of each odd-numbered year, the state commission will calculate the new base wage by increasing the previous wage by the percentage increase in the CPI-W over the past 24 months. The bill allows state agencies to delay implementation if they need to obtain federal waivers or authorizations, and it will take effect on September 1, 2025. This legislation aims to ensure fair compensation for personal attendants who provide critical support services to individuals with disabilities.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1721