SB2604 Summary

• Requires the Department of Human Services to establish reimbursement rates that build toward livable wages for direct service personnel in residential and day programs serving individuals with developmental disabilities, including intermediate care facilities, community integrated living arrangements, and developmental training programs.

• Mandates starting wages for direct service personnel reach $13 per hour by July 1, 2016 through phased increases: $1 per hour by July 1, 2014; $1 additional per hour by January 1, 2015; $1 additional per hour by July 1, 2015; and $0.65 additional per hour by January 1, 2016.

• Applies to programs funded by state funds or Title XIX of the federal Social Security Act and defines direct service personnel as direct care staff, front-line supervisors, qualified support professionals, nurses, and non-administrative support staff.

• Requires the same wage increase schedule for Intermediate Care for the Developmentally Disabled Facilities and Long Term Care for Under Age 22 facilities certified under the ID/DD Community Care Act.

• Takes effect immediately upon becoming law.