The bill aims to enhance the regulation and oversight of home care services in Massachusetts by establishing a licensing framework for home care agencies. It introduces new definitions for key terms such as "home care agency," "home care consumer," and "home care worker," and mandates that no entity may operate as a home care agency without a license issued by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The bill outlines the requirements for obtaining a license, including background checks for home care workers, minimum standards for service plans, and training requirements. It also allows for the issuance of provisional licenses and imposes fines for operating without a license.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Home Care Worker and Consumer Abuse Stakeholder Advisory Committee to address issues of abuse and bullying within home care settings, which must meet monthly for the first six months to create initial findings and recommendations. A Home Care Oversight Advisory Council will also be created to advise on the implementation of the new licensing regulations, consisting of various representatives from state agencies and organizations related to aging and home care. The council is required to meet quarterly and has the authority to dissolve by a majority vote once regulations for home care agency licensure are promulgated. The bill also amends existing laws to include personal care attendants as defined in chapter 118E and mandates the secretary of health and human services to develop licensing regulations for home care agencies within one year.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 151B-1