SF1062

The legislative bill S.F. No. 1062 proposes to establish a three-year pilot project in Minnesota to certify direct support professionals. This project is a collaborative effort between multiple agencies, including the commissioners of human services and higher education, as well as Anoka County, Dakota County, and various educational institutions. The aim is to offer a specialized curriculum that trains individuals to support older adults and people with disabilities by helping them with their everyday living needs.

The curriculum, which spans at least 80 hours of instruction over a minimum of eight weeks, must at least meet existing state training standards and align with nationally recognized competencies. Participants who successfully complete this program will become certified direct support professionals.

The bill also proposes a scholarship scheme that rewards learning with a stipend. Additionally, it outlines plans to pay these certified professionals at a rate 18.75% higher than the current medical assistance rate, subject to federal approval.

To ensure the success and expansion potential of the project, the bill requires rigorous evaluation and reporting on its effectiveness and economic impact. The results will help in deciding whether the program should be scaled up statewide.