AN ACT EXPANDING TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS FOR HOME CARE CLIENTS.

This bill expands transportation options for home care clients by requiring the Department of Social Services to reimburse home care providers who transport Medicaid beneficiaries to or from medical appointments, provided the providers have a state-issued driver's license and adequate liability insurance. Starting July 1, 2026, the commissioner must increase the fee schedule for these transportation services and establish annual maximum allowable rates for home care providers. The legislation applies to home care agencies serving elderly and disabled individuals who receive Medicaid benefits, ensuring they can access medical appointments through their existing home care arrangements without needing separate nonemergency medical transport services.