SF1418

The bill proposes the establishment of a Council on Direct Support Professionals in Minnesota. This council will be responsible for creating a strategic plan to address the ongoing shortage of direct support professionals and improve access to direct support services statewide. The council will include members from various government sectors and representatives from the community, including those with direct experience of direct support services.

The roles of the council will involve: - Advocating for better recruitment, education, and training opportunities for direct support professionals. - Developing comprehensive strategies to attract and retain these workers. - Conducting economic assessments of the investments in direct support services and their impact on the state. - Ensuring the work environment for direct support professionals is respectful and safe. - Publishing recommendations and proposing necessary changes to state laws and policies to improve the sector.

Additionally, the bill outlines the logistical functioning of the council, including meetings, member appointments, and an annual reporting requirement. The council is also provided with budget allocations for administrative and operational purposes, starting in fiscal years 2026 and 2027.