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H.R. 5228: HCBS Worker Protection Act of 2025

This bill, known as the HCBS Worker Protection Act of 2025, aims to amend the Social Security Act, specifically focusing on the Medicaid program's home and community-based services (HCBS). Here are the main points of what the bill intends to do:

1. Purpose of the Bill

The bill is designed to enhance and protect payment provisions for certain home and community-based services under the Medicaid program. It seeks to eliminate a current limitation affecting these services, which may positively impact HCBS workers and the individuals receiving these services.

2. Specific Changes Proposed

The bill proposes to remove a specific provision (subparagraph (C)) from Section 1915(c)(11) of the Social Security Act. This provision currently imposes limitations on payments for specific HCBS waivers.
By removing this limitation, the bill aims to increase the availability and funding for HCBS programs, which provide essential services that allow individuals to live independently within their communities rather than in institutional settings.

3. Potential Impact

The proposed changes are expected to offer potential benefits, including:

Improved compensation and support for workers providing HCBS, addressing concerns about workforce shortages in this area.
Greater access to necessary services for individuals with disabilities or those requiring long-term care, facilitating their ability to remain in home or community settings.

4. Context and Rationale

The bill is introduced as a response to ongoing challenges in the HCBS sector, including funding shortfalls, workforce retention issues, and the necessity for more robust support for individuals who rely on Medicaid for their home and community-based services. By addressing these limitations, the bill aspires to make substantial improvements to both the quality of care and the sustainability of the HCBS workforce.