The proposed legislation, Substitute Bill No. 5143, mandates that all homemaker-companion agencies provide a minimum of eight hours of paid training for new employees within the first ninety days of their employment, effective January 1, 2027. This initial training must cover various essential topics, including communication, maintaining a safe environment, and recognizing signs of abuse or neglect. Additionally, employees are required to complete annual continuing education based on a list of approved training programs developed by the Commissioner of Consumer Protection in consultation with other relevant commissioners. The bill also allows for prior training received at another agency within the last three years to count towards the initial training requirement, provided proof is submitted.

Furthermore, the bill outlines that certain categories of workers, such as nurse's aides and home health aides, are exempt from these training requirements. Each agency must submit an annual attestation to the Department of Consumer Protection confirming adherence to the training requirements and maintain records of training programs and employee training completion. The legislation aims to enhance the quality of care provided by homemaker-companion agencies through standardized training protocols.