Assembly approves AB 283 to enhance IHSS caregiver wages and statewide bargaining

The Assembly Public Employment and Retirement Committee convened on March 19, 2025, to discuss critical legislation impacting California's In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program. The meeting began with a roll call and a motion to pass a bill, which was subsequently placed on hold for further consideration.

The primary focus of the meeting was Assembly Bill 283, presented by Assemblymember Haney. This bill aims to shift the collective bargaining process for IHSS providers from the county level to the state level. Haney emphasized that this change is essential for ensuring that caregivers receive living wages and benefits, as the current system has led to alarming rates of workforce attrition due to low pay and inadequate benefits. He noted that over 700,000 providers serve more than 800,000 recipients, yet many counties pay only minimum wage or slightly above it.

Sabrina Bishop, an IHSS provider, testified about the challenges faced by caregivers, highlighting the outdated and cumbersome bargaining process that often leaves them in poverty. She shared personal experiences of working multiple jobs to make ends meet and criticized county officials for failing to adequately compensate caregivers despite the significant savings they provide to the state by delivering care at home.

Ronald Penn, an IHSS recipient, also spoke passionately about the importance of caregivers in his life, stressing that without them, he would be unable to live independently. He urged committee members to support AB 283, framing it as a matter of dignity and essential care for vulnerable individuals.

Numerous witnesses, including caregivers and recipients, expressed their support for the bill, emphasizing the need for fair wages and better working conditions. The committee heard from representatives of various organizations, including the United Domestic Workers (UDW) and the California Federation of Labor, who echoed the call for statewide bargaining to improve the IHSS program.

During the discussion, concerns were raised regarding the exclusion of family care workers from the proposal. Assemblymember Lackey highlighted this issue, prompting a commitment from the bill's supporters to address it in future discussions.

The committee ultimately voted in favor of AB 283, with a motion to pass it and refer it to the Committee on Appropriations. The bill received strong bipartisan support, reflecting a collective recognition of the critical role that IHSS providers play in California's long-term care system.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for reform in the IHSS program to ensure that caregivers are adequately compensated and supported, as the state faces a growing demand for long-term care services. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments to address the concerns raised during the meeting.