Requires state departments to report on obsolete administrative entities, repeals certain administrative entities and repeals and reassigns duties for certain other administrative entities
Impact
The bill aims to address significant challenges in the home care sector, such as low wages and inadequate training for personal care attendants. By allowing the council to engage in collective bargaining and recommend changes in wages and benefits, SB729 seeks to empower care attendants, potentially improving workforce stability and job satisfaction. This may lead to better care continuity and quality for consumers relying on personal care services. Moreover, safety measures are reinforced through improved training and oversight.
Summary
SB729 establishes a framework to improve home care services in Missouri by creating the Missouri Quality Home Care Council. This council is responsible for ensuring the availability and safety of home care services while also addressing the recruitment, training, and stabilization of personal care attendants. The bill acknowledges the growing demand for personal care services, particularly in light of an aging population, and emphasizes the importance of quality care and the well-being of both consumers and care providers.
Contention
Notably, the reaction to SB729 is mixed. While supporters highlight the need for better working conditions and adequate regulation in home care, opponents worry about the implications of creating a powerful council with significant authority over personal care services. Critics argue that the centralization of decision-making could stifle local initiatives and result in a one-size-fits-all approach that might not cater to the specific needs of diverse communities. The potential for increased bureaucracy and the effectiveness of collective bargaining in this context are also points of debate.