This bill establishes new reporting requirements for entities participating in Medicaid personal care services programs regarding the direct care workforce. By March 1, 2026, and annually thereafter, personal care service provider agencies, Medicaid managed care organizations, and financial management agencies must submit detailed data to the Health Care Authority. This data will include information on the number of direct care workers, their demographic details, wage information, employment length, turnover rates, and the availability of benefits. The Health Care Authority is tasked with reviewing this data and providing annual reports to various legislative committees and stakeholders.

Additionally, the bill mandates that by January 1, 2030, the Health Care Authority conduct a study to determine the costs associated with providing personal care services and to recommend reimbursement rates. This study will consider factors such as federal payment adequacy requirements, the impact of raising direct care worker wages to at least 150% of the state minimum wage, and the effects of vacancies on costs. The Authority will also establish an advisory group to provide recommendations on reimbursement rates, ensuring that the perspectives of direct care workers and eligible Medicaid recipients are included in the decision-making process.