TX HB836

Establishes a minimum base wage of $15 per hour (or the federal minimum wage, whichever is greater) for personal attendants providing services under Medicaid and other Health and Human Services Commission-administered programs, effective January 2026

Defines personal attendant services as nonmedical assistance including bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, mobility support, light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication assistance, health monitoring, and in-home respite services

Requires Medicaid managed care organizations and contractors under consumer-directed services programs to ensure compliance with the minimum wage requirement

Directs the Health and Human Services Commission to monitor compliance, establish a confidential reporting process for wage violations with retaliation protections, and seek federal funding to support implementation

Mandates an annual report to the legislature by December 1 each year on the effectiveness of the minimum wage requirement, with the 2026 report specifically assessing impacts on service quality and attendant retention rates