By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a bill that would establish a licensure process for home care agencies that supporters say will ensure that consumers receive quality non-medical services and that home care workers are protected.

The Executive Office of Health and Human Services would implement the licensure process and have the authority to approve licenses, survey and investigate home care agencies and impose fines. Home care agencies would be required to disclose anyone with at least a 5 percent ownership interest in the agency, carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance and provide appropriate levels of training for their employees.

“Massachusetts families deserve peace of mind when they hire someone to care for their loved ones at home,” said Gov. Healey. “This law strengthens the safety, quality and accountability of home care across Massachusetts, giving families confidence in the care their loved ones receive and supporting the dedicated workers who make independent living possible.”

“We want people to have options as they age so that they can make the choices that work best for them,” said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll. “By establishing statewide safety and quality standards for home care agencies and strengthening protections for workers and consumers, we’re making it easier for more people to safely receive high-quality care at home while giving families greater peace of mind.”