Bill > SB1085

This bill establishes the Direct Care Worker Wage Advisory Board (DCWWAB) to address challenges in recruiting and retaining direct care workers in Pennsylvania. The board will consist of 9 members, including representatives from state agencies, direct care worker organizations, employers, workers, and service recipients, who will examine issues such as compensation, work schedules, and working conditions. The board's key responsibilities include consulting with the Secretary of Human Services to identify workforce shortages, making recommendations for minimum wage rates and worker training standards, submitting annual reports to the General Assembly, and receiving worker complaints. The bill also creates a mandatory registry for direct care workers, requires employers to provide worker contact information quarterly, and allows direct care worker organizations access to this registry. Additionally, the legislation mandates a minimum wage for direct care workers, establishes penalties for employers who fail to pay the required wage, and allows workers to recover unpaid wages through civil action. The bill further provides a mechanism for voluntary paycheck deductions for direct care worker organization dues and protects workers from retaliation for participating in board activities. The Direct Care Worker Wage Advisory Board will have the authority to recommend wage increases and improvements to working conditions, with the ultimate goal of supporting and professionalizing the direct care workforce in Pennsylvania.

Health and Social Services

https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/sb1085