The bill establishes a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Working Group under Chapter 140 of the Acts of 2024, which is responsible for reviewing the eligibility criteria, scope of services, and sustainability of the PCA program. This group will consist of representatives from various organizations, including the executive office of health and human services, labor unions, and advocacy groups. The working group is tasked with evaluating program oversight, workforce supply, and cost growth, and is required to submit recommendations for the PCA program's long-term sustainability and cost containment by March 7, 2025. Among its initial recommendations, the group has identified strategies to reduce spending by approximately $7.4 million, such as enforcing an overtime cap, addressing fraudulent activities, and streamlining paperwork.
The bill emphasizes the importance of the PCA program in supporting individuals with disabilities and aging adults, particularly in light of rising costs and increasing demand. It opposes a proposed 3.6% annual spending growth cap on the PCA program, arguing that it would negatively impact vulnerable consumers and low-income workers. Instead, the bill advocates for a flexible approach to cost growth that considers the unique needs of the PCA program. Key recommendations include enforcing a cap on PCA overtime at 66 hours and eliminating unnecessary administrative paperwork to enhance efficiency. The bill also calls for collaboration among stakeholders to develop targeted reforms that ensure the PCA program remains effective and viable, while addressing the fiscal challenges faced by the Commonwealth.