Senate passes bill to boost pay for home and community care workers

AUGUSTA — The Maine Senate on Wednesday gave unanimous approval to a bill that increases state reimbursement for home care workers and community-based service providers.

The bill, LD 886, was removed from the Appropriations Table, passed and funded unanimously by the Senate. It would help Maine seniors and people with disabilities remain in their communities by improving recruitment and retention efforts and raising wages for workers who provide their care.

“These dedicated workers help Mainers in need stay in their homes,” said Sen. Nate Libby, D-Lewiston, the bill’s lead Senate sponsor. “Whether it’s for a parent, sibling, child or other friend or family member, home care workers and community-service providers help our loved ones, at a cost far lower than institutional care. Increasing the state’s reimbursement for that care is a reflection of the value of those workers who help our loved ones live with dignity.”

As amended, the bill uses federal funds to provide $4 million for increased reimbursements to home care workers and community-based services. The new rate includes increases for wages, benefits and travel.

The bill faces final votes in the House and Senate.

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