Better Care Better Jobs Act Introduced, Seeks to Expand Access to Medicaid HCBS

Late last week, the Better Care Better Jobs Act was reintroduced by Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI). This legislation would expand access to home- and community-based services for seniors and people with disabilities, increase direct care workers’ wages and benefits, enhance quality of life for families, and help create middle-class jobs. 

​The bill’s impetus centers on ensuring all Americans have the option to receive quality, long-term care in the setting that meets their needs and preferences. Medicaid funding would be increased if states met certain criteria such as building a workforce program, supporting quality, accountability, protecting spouses from impoverishment, and establishing a sound Money Follows the Person program.
 
Home Care Association of America CEO Vicki Hoak spoke with McKnight’s Home Care Daily Pulse last week, on the day the bill was introduced.
 
“I have to believe this particular bill does have traction,” she said. “We got so much attention the last time it was introduced and I’m hoping with a fresh look and more people advocating on behalf of this, it has a real possibility of passing.”
 
HCAOA’s Policy Committee will be reviewing the new bill language and will provide additional information to members in the coming weeks.