Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 485 into law, making the personal care attendants (PCA) program permanent rather than ending when the COVID-19 State of Emergency expires. LeadingAge Florida applauds its passage and issued the following statement attributable to President and CEO Steve Bahmer.
“We are grateful to the Governor for continuing to put seniors first, and for signing this important legislation into law.
The workforce shortage in long-term care is an ongoing challenge that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past year the PCA program has become a valuable way to recruit more CNAs, promote job growth and help alleviate some of the workforce pressure.
Our members are working hard to recruit and rebuild the workforce and this program is a good start to ensuring Florida continues to provide the highest quality of care for seniors.”
For more than 57 years, LeadingAge Florida has been the state’s leading advocate for high-quality senior living, aging services and care. We are the only statewide association representing the full continuum of care for seniors. The Association provides up-to-date regulatory information, a wide variety of educational opportunities, representation before the Legislature and government agencies, group purchasing services, and opportunities for networking with peers to help member communities best serve the needs of Florida’s senior population.
