Connecticut Senate Bill SB00422

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/5/20
• Refer: 3/5/20

Caption

An Act Strengthening Home Care Services.

Impact

The implementation of SB00422 will significantly affect existing home care laws and practices by introducing rigorous background checks for prospective employees at homemaker-companion agencies. These background checks demand comprehensive verification processes including criminal history inquiries and sexual offender registry checks. This initiative is intended to enhance the safety of the vulnerable populations that these agencies serve. Furthermore, agencies will be obligated to report employee information within specific timeframes, fostering a more organized and accountable industry.

Summary

SB00422, known as 'An Act Strengthening Home Care Services,' aims to enhance the standards and regulations governing homemaker-companion agencies within the state. The law mandates the establishment of a public directory that documents employees working at these agencies, requiring them to provide essential information such as job titles, hiring dates, and training histories. The bill's objective is to improve accountability and transparency in home care services, ensuring that the workforce is adequately trained and verified before providing care to individuals in need.

Contention

While proponents contend that the bill will improve the quality of care and safety for clients, there are concerns regarding privacy and the potential burden it places on homemaker-companion agencies. Critics argue that the increased regulatory requirements could overburden smaller operators, leading to possible staffing shortages in home care services. The balance between ensuring safety and maintaining operational feasibility for these agencies has been a point of contention during discussions surrounding the bill.