ME LD1932

Increases the labor reimbursement rate for essential support workers under MaineCare and state-funded programs from 125% to 140% of minimum wage, effective January 1, 2026, while requiring workers be paid at least 125% of minimum wage

Requires biennial reporting to the Legislature starting January 15, 2026 on the total cost of essential support worker services and projected costs if all approved services were fully provided to eligible individuals

Directs the Maine Health Data Organization to develop methodology for measuring the "care gap"—the difference between approved services and services actually provided due to workforce shortages—with a report due January 15, 2026

Expands the Essential Support Workforce Advisory Committee from 14 to 16 members, adding representatives from the long-term care ombudsman program and home-based personal care services organizations

Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to develop two plans by October 15, 2026: an Innovations in Care and Support Technology Plan to reduce unstaffed hours through technology, and a 5-year credentialing and training redesign plan with standardized curricula and stackable credentials for essential support workers