Bill > S04924

This bill authorizes the New York State Commissioner of Health to adjust medical assistance payment rates for various healthcare providers, starting April 1, 2025, with the specific goal of addressing workforce shortages in home care services. The adjustments are intended to support recruitment, training, and retention of direct care workers in shortage areas and disciplines, including nurses, therapists, social workers, home health aides, and personal care aides. The bill allows the commissioner to provide additional funding for critical worker supports like transportation, education, child daycare, career development, and peer support. Providers such as certified home health agencies, managed long-term care plans, hospices, and licensed home care services agencies can receive these rate adjustments, subject to federal financial participation and state budget director approval. By April 1, 2027, the commissioner must submit a report to the governor and legislature evaluating the program's effectiveness in recruiting and retaining home care personnel, including recommendations for continuation or modification. The bill also specifies that funds for these rate adjustments can come from unexpended funds, with annual amounts up to 30% of existing adjustment levels, and requires the commissioner to seek input from providers, plans, consumers, and workers when examining the program.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4924