Bill > H223

This bill aims to address wage disparities for human services workers by requiring state executive offices (Health and Human Services, Elder Affairs, and Housing and Livable Communities) to gradually increase reimbursement rates for community-based human services organizations. The bill defines key terms such as "human service provider" (a community-based organization funded by state offices), "human services worker" (an employee providing services to clients), and "disparity amount" (the difference in salary between these workers and state-employed comparable workers like direct care workers or nurses). The legislation mandates incremental reductions of the salary gap: 50% reduction by July 1, 2026, 30% by July 1, 2027, 10% by July 1, 2028, and complete elimination by July 1, 2029. Critically, any increases in reimbursement rates must be directly used to increase worker compensation. The bill also requires annual reporting to various legislative committees about the progress in reducing wage disparities, including details on current salary differences, planned reimbursement increases, and appropriation needs. The goal is to create more equitable compensation for human services workers who provide essential support to vulnerable populations in community settings.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H223