SB 23-261 Summary

• Creates the Direct Care Workforce Stabilization Board within the Department of Labor and Employment as a 15-member board with representatives from direct care employers, workers, consumers, and state agencies

• Board must develop recommendations for minimum employment standards (compensation, working hours, working conditions) for direct care workers by September 1, 2024, and every two years thereafter, with 8-member supermajority required for approval

• Requires direct care employers to annually notify workers of their rights under the law, applicable employment standards, and department contact information starting January 1, 2025

• Prohibits retaliation by direct care employers against workers for exercising rights or participating in board proceedings, and prohibits retaliation against consumers for advocating for workers

• Appropriates $186,876 to the Department of Labor and Employment and $60,358 to the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing for fiscal year 2023-24, with the board subject to repeal on September 1, 2029