Colorado Raises Minimum Wage for Direct Health Care Workers

Understanding the New Wage Law

Starting January 1, 2022, Colorado set a $15 per hour minimum wage for all direct care workers funded by state programs. This decision came from the Joint Budget Committee and the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing. The law benefits thousands of caregivers who support older adults and individuals with disabilities across the state.

Direct care workers include certified nursing assistants, homemakers, personal care workers, and other support professionals. Their work allows people to live safely and comfortably in their own homes. The wage increase recognizes their effort, skill, and the vital role they play in community health.

Why Direct Care Workers Deserve Fair Pay

Direct care work is physically and emotionally demanding. These professionals help clients with daily activities, personal care, and companionship. Yet, for years, they have earned low wages despite their importance. This wage increase gives recognition and stability to those who serve on the front lines of home and community-based care.

Fair pay improves both worker satisfaction and quality of care. When caregivers feel valued, they are more motivated and better able to focus on their clients. Fair pay is not only a reward; it helps sustain compassionate, high-quality care throughout Colorado.

State Leaders Recognize Caregiver Dedication

Governor Jared Polis praised the decision, stating that every Coloradan deserves to enjoy life in this state, including those who care for loved ones.

Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera called direct care workers the unsung heroes of the COVID-19 response. Her words highlight the importance of their hands-on work with aging adults and individuals with disabilities.

These state leaders understand what caregivers mean to Colorado families. Their comments show how the new wage law supports a stronger and more respectful care system. Recognition from leadership encourages more people to join this rewarding profession and strengthens programs like IHSS and CHCBS that help families stay together.

Voyager Home Health Care’s Commitment to Fair Pay

We have long supported higher wages and better conditions for those who dedicate themselves to caregiving. Even before the state’s new wage law, we paid our Parent CNAs, Family CNAs, and IHSS professionals above standard rates. We believe those who serve others deserve the best possible compensation and respect.

Our caregivers make a difference every day – helping clients live with comfort, dignity, and independence. We attract and support people who care deeply about others, and we stand behind them with strong training, guidance, and fair pay.

Voices From Colorado’s Care Community

Many caregivers across Colorado shared their appreciation for the wage increase. One long-time provider, Charmayne Phillips, spoke about years of being underpaid and overlooked. She called the raise a step toward fair treatment and respect for all workers in the care industry.

Her words echo what we see daily. Direct care workers are vital to families and communities. Their work deserves recognition, respect, and fair wages. We share the same vision – to create a supportive and rewarding environment for every caregiver.

How Voyager Supports Families and Caregivers

At Voyager, our care model centers around family. Through programs like Parent CNA, Family CNA, IHSS, and CHCBS, we help loved ones care for one another at home. These programs allow parents or family members to become paid caregivers for children or relatives who need daily support.

We make the process simple and approachable. Same-day assessments and around-the-clock support mean no one has to navigate it alone. Families move through each step with our guidance, learning how to qualify and build stability through caregiving.

Our focus is always on creating balance – financial, emotional, and personal – for families who dedicate their time and heart to caring for others.

A Step Forward for Colorado’s Care Future

The recent minimum wage increase represents progress for everyone who makes home-based care possible. It honors caregivers who work tirelessly and strengthens care options for families across Colorado. This change moves us closer to what we all want: a network of care built on trust, fairness, and respect in every home.

We will continue to advocate for fair pay and better resources for our caregivers. We believe every family deserves access to quality care and every caregiver deserves financial security. Together, we can make home care a sustainable and rewarding career path.

Contact Voyager Home Health Care

Voyager Home Health Care is proud to serve families across Colorado from our Colorado Springs office. We are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with 24/7 emergency support.

Address: 2233 Academy Place, Suite 105, Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Phone: (719) 378-4852
Email: Support@voyagerhomehealth.com

Let us help you learn more about Parent CNA, Family CNA, IHSS, or CHCBS programs. Reach out today to speak with our team and start building a care plan that fits your family’s needs.

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