This bill amends the Human Services Code to introduce new provisions regarding the qualifications for direct care staff in personal care homes and assisted living residences. Specifically, it allows individuals seeking employment in these roles to take a skills competency examination as an alternative to holding a high school diploma or GED. The examination will assess various competencies, including interpersonal communication, basic literacy, cultural awareness, and understanding of mental health needs. However, it explicitly states that passing this examination does not authorize direct care staff to dispense or administer medication.

Additionally, the bill empowers the Department of Human Services to create temporary regulations to facilitate the implementation of these new provisions, which will expire two years after their publication. It also abrogates certain existing regulations that conflict with the new requirements. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 66 (Jan 22, 2025): P.L.31, No.21
Printer's No. 757 (May 06, 2025): P.L.31, No.21
Printer's No. 0066: P.L.31, No.21