SC S0607

Establishes minimum compensation requirements for direct care workers providing personal care services through Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) providers in South Carolina

Requires HCBS provider agencies to use at least 70% of Medicaid reimbursement for direct care worker compensation by January 1, 2026, increasing to 75% by January 1, 2028, and 80% by January 1, 2030

Defines "compensation" broadly to include wages, overtime, health/dental/life/disability insurance, paid leave, retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement, and employer payroll taxes

Allows provider agencies to deduct costs for training, travel, and personal protective equipment before calculating the required pass-through percentage

Requires all HCBS provider agencies to notify each direct care worker of the effective date of wage pass-through requirements and their specific wages and benefits