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H 223

An Act relative to a livable wage for human services workers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 28 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill establishes minimum wage standards for human services workers to improve recruitment, retention, and service quality in community-based care sectors.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 223

Legislative bill overview

H 223 establishes wage standards for human services workers in Massachusetts, defining what constitutes a "livable wage" and requiring employers in the sector to meet specified compensation thresholds. The bill aims to address recruitment and retention challenges in community-based social services, healthcare support, and related fields that serve vulnerable populations.

Why is this important

Human services workers—including home health aides, personal care attendants, case managers, and direct support professionals—often earn wages below state and federal poverty levels despite critical roles in elder care, disability services, and social support. Poor wages contribute to high turnover, staffing shortages, and reduced service quality, directly affecting the populations these workers serve. This bill attempts to stabilize the workforce and reduce taxpayer burden from emergency interventions caused by inadequate preventive services.

Potential points of contention

  • Employer cost burden: Smaller nonprofits and community agencies may face significant payroll increases without corresponding increases in government contracts or private funding, potentially forcing service reductions or closures
  • Wage level definition: Disagreement likely over what constitutes "livable"—whether tied to regional cost of living, state/federal poverty multiples, or absolute hourly rates; different thresholds create vastly different fiscal impacts
  • Scope and coverage: Debate over which employers and job titles qualify (unionized vs. non-union, for-profit vs. nonprofit, home-based vs. facility-based care) and whether mandates apply uniformly across all service types

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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