Relates to wage parity compensation for home care workers

This bill (A 8999) requires home care workers receiving wage parity compensation to be paid directly in cash wages by default, unless they voluntarily and in writing choose to receive part or all as supplemental benefits. It mandates clear, plain-language disclosures to workers about the monetary value, limitations, and their right to opt for cash at any time, prohibiting automatic enrollment in non-cash benefits. Employers cannot deduct wages to fund benefits without explicit, revocable written consent, and unauthorized deductions are deemed unlawful wage violations. The Attorney General and state health/labor departments will enforce these rules, with penalties for noncompliance. The law applies to all home care programs, including the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP).