San Francisco DAS highlights AB 1387 to let undocumented relatives serve as paid IHSS providers

San Francisco’s Department of Disability and Aging Services informed commissioners March 1 that the city is backing AB 1387, legislation that would allow undocumented recipients of In‑Home Supportive Services (IHSS) to choose undocumented family members as paid caregivers.

Executive Director Kelly Dearman, presenting the department’s legislative report, said the measure is intended to help fill a shortage of home‑care workers. “There is a bill, AB 1387, which would authorize undocumented IHSS recipients to select an undocumented relative to serve as their provider,” Dearman said, adding that San Francisco and Assemblymember Phil Ting are supporting the proposal.

Why it matters: IHSS provides personal care and home supports that let many older adults and people with disabilities remain in their homes. Dearman told the commission the expansion is aimed at increasing the available caregiver pool and easing strain on existing providers; she said the city has promoted the idea to the County Welfare Directors Association and labor groups.

On funding and responsibilities, Dearman was explicit that cities would not bear the provider cost if the bill passes. “So it won’t be a cost to us because it’s a state run program,” she said, and added that she would return to the commission with more precise cost estimates. Dearman also cited a roughly $3.5 million outreach/marketing figure associated with public awareness for the change but said she would follow up with exact statewide numbers.

Commissioners asked how the proposal intersects with ongoing bargaining. Dearman said bargaining between SEIU and UDW is starting and that both unions have expressed support for the bill. Commissioners expressed support for San Francisco leading the effort and offered assistance with advocacy.

There was no formal action by the commission on AB 1387 at the March 1 meeting; Dearman said she would update the commission as the bill’s status and budget implications become clearer.