We have an Advocacy Alert this #TakeALookTuesday! The Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act (H.R. 4779) was introduced over the summer by U.S. Representatives Kathleen Rice, and has since been co-sponsored by Rep. Antonio Delgado, who represents the people in Springbrook’s service area. The bill requires the Office of Management and Budget to establish a separate category within the Standard Occupational Classification system for DSPs (i.e., individuals who provide services to promote independence in individuals with a disability) for data reporting purposes. Currently, they are lumped in with larger categories, minimizing their efforts and misrepresenting the data lawmakers need to make the proper decisions. Rice’s bill would address this shortage by providing the Department of Labor and the private sector with the data they need to better understand and respond to this pressing workforce challenge. Click below to access our one-click platform and send a message to our legislatures that this bill needs to be moved forward! This bill is very important and one that our provider groups have encouraged for years.
For more information on the Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act click here.