Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to allocate funding to Equitable Development Action for the training and support of direct support professionals (DSPs) in Minnesota. The initiative aims to enhance the skills and resources of DSPs who work with residents needing 24/7 support.

Main Provisions

• Funding: The bill proposes an appropriation of $170,000 from the workforce development fund for fiscal year 2026.
• Training Program Implementation: Equitable Development Action will use the funds to create a comprehensive training program focused on:
  • Best practices in care provision
  • Safety protocols and emergency response
  • Effective communication skills
  • Specialized training for working with residents with disabilities, mental health issues, and chronic illnesses
• Ongoing Support and Professional Development:
  • Establishing a support network for DSPs that includes mental health resources, peer support groups, and professional counseling services
  • Offering continuing education opportunities to ensure DSPs are informed about the latest industry standards and practices
• Cost Reduction: The training aims to decrease state expenses by equipping DSPs to defuse situations without the need for emergency services, thereby reducing 911 calls and emergency interventions.

Significant Changes

• Enhanced DSP Capabilities: The bill seeks to significantly improve the capability and satisfaction of direct support professionals, which may indirectly improve compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Workforce Stability: By addressing issues related to turnover and recruitment in the DSP industry, the bill anticipates improved career stability and job satisfaction for DSPs.
• Diversity in Services: It aims to improve service delivery by minority service providers, contributing to more inclusive workforce development.

Relevant Terms

• Workforce development
• Direct support professionals (DSPs)
• Training and support
• Disabilities, mental health, chronic illnesses
• Emergency response, safety protocols
• Mental health resources, peer support
• State and federal regulations compliance
• Minority service providers