SD HB1138

Non-medical home care agencies in South Dakota must obtain licensure from the Department of Health beginning January 1, 2027, with annual license fees not exceeding $100 and a $200 late renewal fee

Home care aides must complete 8 hours of training within their first 6 months, including 2 hours on Alzheimer's/dementia care and 6 hours on topics such as safe bathing techniques, nutrition, and elder abuse prevention

Criminal background checks are required for agency owners and all home care aides, with disqualifying offenses including crimes of violence, sex crimes, and Class A or B felonies

Agencies must carry professional liability insurance with minimum coverage of $250,000 per occurrence and maintain records of services provided to each client

Operating without a license constitutes a Class 1 misdemeanor; the Department may inspect agencies, investigate complaints, and suspend or revoke licenses for violations