The bill aims to standardize the basic training and certification requirements for long-term care workers providing in-home care for family members, including spouses and domestic partners. It amends existing laws to clarify the exemptions from certification for certain long-term care workers, such as those caring for their own children, parents, siblings, or other relatives. The bill introduces new language that specifies the conditions under which these workers are exempt from certification and outlines the training requirements they must fulfill. For instance, long-term care workers providing in-home care for a spouse or domestic partner must complete 15 hours of basic training and an additional six hours of focused training within the first 120 days of employment.

Additionally, the bill establishes a new section that mandates long-term care workers funded through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to complete 35 hours of training, including orientation and safety training, within 120 days of starting their role. This section is set to expire on July 1, 2026. The legislation also includes provisions for the Department to adopt rules for implementation and allows for extensions of training deadlines in the event of emergencies. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the quality of care provided by long-term care workers through standardized training and certification processes.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.88B.041, 74.39A.076
Substitute Bill: 18.88B.041, 74.39A.076
Bill as Passed Legislature: 18.88B.041, 74.39A.076
Session Law: 18.88B.041, 74.39A.076