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Bill

Bill

HB 1854

TO EXEMPT A HOME CAREGIVER FROM HOME CAREGIVER TRAINING IF HE OR SHE PREVIOUSLY COMPLETED TRAINING.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Bentley and 1 co-sponsor

Act 643 exempts trained home caregivers from repeating training, easing burdens and ensuring a flexible workforce for families needing care in Arkansas.

Notification that HB1854 is now Act 643
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Bill Summary · HB 1854

Summary of House Bill 1854 (Act 643)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1854, now known as Act 643, was introduced to provide an exemption from mandatory home caregiver training for individuals who have previously completed such training. The intent of the bill is to streamline the process for home caregivers, allowing those who have already demonstrated their competency through prior training to continue providing care without undergoing additional training requirements.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Arkansas Code § 20-77-2304, specifically addressing exemptions from caregiver training. The key provisions include:

  • Exemption Criteria: The bill allows home caregivers who have previously completed the required training to be exempt from repeating it, provided they can furnish documentation of their completed training.
  • Expanded Exemption List: The amended section outlines various categories of individuals who are exempt from the training requirements, including:
    • Certified Nursing Assistants
    • Licensed Practical Nurses
    • Family members (parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings) of the care recipient
    • Physicians
    • Registered Nurses
    • Uncompensated service providers
    • Licensed Social Workers
    • Court-appointed legal guardians
    • Direct-care workers in programs licensed by the Department of Human Services

Affected Parties

The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are home caregivers who have previously completed training. By exempting them from redundant training requirements, the bill aims to reduce administrative burdens and facilitate continued care for recipients. Additionally, this change may positively impact families and individuals receiving care, as it allows for a more flexible caregiver workforce.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 19, 2025
  • Passed by House: April 1, 2025
  • Passed by Senate: April 10, 2025
  • Notification of Act: April 16, 2025

The bill underwent a series of readings and committee reviews before being passed by both the House and Senate and subsequently signed into law.

Conclusion

House Bill 1854 (Act 643) represents a significant step in easing the regulatory burden on home caregivers in Arkansas. By allowing those with prior training to continue providing care without re-training, the legislation aims to enhance the efficiency of home care services while ensuring that caregivers maintain their qualifications.

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

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