Connecticut Senate Bill SB00541

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/17
• Refer: 1/23/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Workers' Compensation Coverage For Injuries Sustained By Personal Care Attendants Employed Directly By Consumers In State-funded Programs.

Impact

The enactment of SB00541 would signify a critical shift in how workers' compensation is approached within the realm of home care. By extending workers' compensation protections to personal care attendants, the bill would provide a safety net for these individuals, who often face risks associated with the physical and emotional demands of their work. This move is expected to improve the overall job security and motivation of personal care attendants, potentially attracting more individuals to this essential sector of healthcare.

Summary

SB00541 aims to enhance protections for personal care attendants who are employed directly by consumers receiving state-funded services. The bill proposes to amend Title 17b of the general statutes to require that the Department of Social Services oversee a workers' compensation program specifically for these attendants. This initiative is structured to offer these workers the same protections as those in traditional employment scenarios, which is crucial given the often informal nature of their employment in home care settings.

Contention

Notably, one potential area of contention surrounding SB00541 centers on the financial implications for state-funded programs. Opponents may raise concerns about the increased costs that could arise from expanding workers' compensation coverage. There could be worries about how this might affect funding allocation across other critical services. However, proponents argue that the benefits of ensuring adequate protections for workers will ultimately result in better care for consumers and a more reliable workforce in the long run.