The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1344, mandates the Commissioner of Consumer Protection, in collaboration with various health and social service commissioners, to create a list of approved training programs for employees of homemaker-companion agencies by December 31, 2025. These training programs must cover essential topics such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, communication skills, maintaining a safe environment, and recognizing signs of abuse or changes in client conditions. Each agency is required to provide a minimum of ten hours of initial training to new employees within 90 days of their employment and an additional ten hours of continuing education annually. Agencies must also maintain documentation of training completion and submit annual attestations to the Department of Consumer Protection.

Additionally, the bill proposes an increase in the registration fee for homemaker-companion agencies from $375 to $450. The changes to the fee structure are set to take effect on July 1, 2025. The legislation aims to enhance the quality of care provided by homemaker-companion agencies through standardized training and increased accountability, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to meet the needs of their clients.