This bill mandates that entities participating in Medicaid personal care services programs report on the status of the direct care workforce to the Health Care Authority. By March 1, 2026, and annually thereafter, personal care service provider agencies must submit detailed data regarding their direct care workers, including employment status, wages, benefits, and demographics. Additionally, Medicaid managed care organizations and financial management agencies are required to provide similar data for direct care workers involved in self-directed community benefits. The Health Care Authority will analyze this data and report its findings to various legislative committees and stakeholders.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Health Care Authority to conduct a study by January 1, 2030, to determine the costs associated with providing personal care services and to recommend appropriate reimbursement rates. This study aims to stabilize the direct care workforce, reduce vacancies, and ensure that direct care workers earn at least 150% of the state minimum wage. The Authority will also establish an interested parties advisory group to provide recommendations on reimbursement rates for personal care services, which will be published on the Authority's website.