The bill S. 607 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 44-6-230, which establishes minimum compensation requirements for direct care workers providing personal care services through Medicaid Home and Community-Based Service (HCBS) providers. The legislation defines key terms such as "compensation," "direct care worker," and "HCBS provider agency," and outlines the responsibilities of these agencies regarding the allocation of Medicaid reimbursement. Specifically, it mandates that by January 1, 2026, HCBS provider agencies must allocate at least 70% of their Medicaid reimbursement to direct care workers, with this percentage increasing to 75% by January 1, 2028, and 80% by January 1, 2030.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that before determining the minimum compensation for direct care workers, costs related to training, travel, and personal protective equipment must be deducted from the total Medicaid reimbursement. HCBS provider agencies are also required to notify each direct care worker of the effective date of the wage pass-through and the specific wages and benefits they will receive. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
04/24/2025: 44-6-230
Latest Version: 44-6-230