An Act relative to spouses as caregivers

This bill directs Massachusetts health officials to request federal approval to allow spouses to be paid caregivers under the state's home and community-based services programs. Currently, these programs permit family members to receive payment for caregiving, but the law does not explicitly include spouses in that definition. If the waiver is granted, spouses would be able to work as paid caregivers for their partners while receiving Medicaid funding, just like other eligible family members. The change aims to clarify eligibility rules and ensure spouses can access the same financial support as other relatives providing care.