Enhances workforce development and support for essential care workers in Maine.

This bill increases the reimbursement rate for essential support workers to 140% of the minimum wage, effective January 1, 2026. It mandates the Maine Health Data Organization to develop a methodology for establishing a baseline report on the care gap for MaineCare and state-funded services. The Department of Health and Human Services must create a 5-year plan to expand its worker portability and advancement initiative, including a standardized curriculum and training program for essential support workers.

Enhances workforce development and support for essential care workers in Maine.

This bill increases the reimbursement rate for essential support workers to 140% of the minimum wage, effective January 1, 2026. It mandates the Maine Health Data Organization to develop a methodology for establishing a baseline report on the care gap for MaineCare and state-funded services. The Department of Health and Human Services must create a 5-year plan to expand its worker portability and advancement initiative, including a standardized curriculum and training program for essential support workers.