New Florida State Budget Calls for $15/Hour Medicaid Wage

​A busy legislative session just wrapped in Tallahassee, and several regulatory changes are coming into effect. HCAOA needs members’ feedback to ensure that the state’s rules are implemented fairly.
 
The recently passed budget includes a rate increase for direct care workers of providers in Florida’s Medicaid Program. The wage will increase to at least $15.00 an hour, but the exact amount of the increase has not yet been determined. On April 5 at 10:30 a.m., the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) will hold a workshop about how the new rate will be determined. 

Click here to register. 

The budget requires the increase to only apply to those providers who enter into an agreement with AHCA ensuring that the increased rate will be applied to wages. These new agreements must also allow any employee of a provider who is not paid the new rate by January 1, 2023, to sue their employer for back wages and reasonable attorney’s fees and costs.
 
Feedback Requested
HCAOA is advocating on behalf of members on this issue, as well as those providing PDN (Private Duty Nursing) services. Click here to complete a brief, two-question survey so HCAOA can help!