§15–1205.

    (a)    The Advisory Group shall:

        (1)    Evaluate the sufficiency of Medicaid payment rates for applicable service categories; and

        (2)    Evaluate challenges to accessing care for applicable Medicaid home– and community–based services.

    (b)    (1)    On or before September 1 each year, beginning in 2026, the Advisory Group shall report its activities and recommendations to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly.

        (2)    Any recommendations adopted by the Advisory Group must receive a majority vote.

    (c)    The Department shall post the report to the Department’s website within 30 days after the report has been finalized.

    (d)    The Advisory Group may hold opportunities to solicit and collect testimony from the public and invite input from employer organizations, worker organizations, consumer advocacy groups, and other stakeholders in the direct care industry.

    (e)    (1)    An employer or State agency may not take retaliatory action against a direct care worker or consumer for participation in the Advisory Group.

        (2)    This section does not limit the rights of direct care workers under State or federal employment or labor law, or collective bargaining agreements.