WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 3165

An Act to establish an enhanced care worker minimum wage

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 31 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill establishes higher minimum wage specifically for care workers to improve compensation in a chronically underpaid sector supporting vulnerable populations.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 3165

Legislative bill overview

HD 3165 establishes a separate, enhanced minimum wage for care workers in Massachusetts, setting compensation higher than the standard state minimum wage. The bill recognizes care work—including home health aides, personal care assistants, and similar roles—as deserving specialized wage protections.

Why is this important

Care workers fill critical roles supporting elderly, disabled, and vulnerable populations, yet historically earn wages near poverty levels despite physically and emotionally demanding work. Enhanced wage standards could improve worker retention, reduce turnover in essential services, and potentially improve quality of care for vulnerable populations who depend on stable staffing.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost impact: Higher wages for care workers increase expenses for healthcare providers, nursing facilities, and families purchasing in-home care services, potentially leading to service cuts or price increases for consumers
  • Definition scope: Determining which occupations qualify as "care workers" may create disputes; overly broad definitions could affect business models, while narrow ones might exclude workers in similar roles
  • Market competitiveness: Significantly higher care worker wages could create inequities with other essential low-wage workers (grocery clerks, childcare providers) not covered by similar protections, raising fairness questions

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

Sign in to ask a question.