Bill > HB1129

This bill requires provider agencies, which are entities that pay personal care aides to provide services reimbursed by the Maryland Medical Assistance Program (such as through programs like Community First Choice or Community Options), to pay these aides a minimum wage of $17 per hour and to provide written notice of this wage. Additionally, provider agencies must grant personal care aides at least 24 hours of paid earned sick and safe leave annually, and for aides who work more than 720 hours in a year, an additional hour of leave for every 30 hours worked. The Department of Health can take enforcement actions against agencies that fail to comply, and this bill's provisions will take precedence over conflicting parts of the Labor and Employment Article. The bill also mandates a report by October 1, 2026, to the General Assembly detailing steps needed to ensure 80% of Medicaid payments for personal care services go to aide compensation and to achieve a $20 per hour wage for these aides, with the entire act taking effect on July 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1129?ys=2026RS