On the anniversary day of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities ACT, S1332 establishes a standard occupational classification for Direct Support Professionals (DSP). The bill unanimously passed the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. This is a significant step forward in addressing the decades long workforce crisis. This bill will require the US Bureau of Labor Statistics to begin collecting and monitoring wage and benefit data specifically aimed at DSPs in Home and Community Based Services. The official designation will help to improve wage and benefit information and is a foundational step in the professionalization of the DSP. The American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) led the charge with this legislation and Community Support Providers of South Dakota along with hundreds of other provider groups across the nation supported the effort. The next step in the process is full passage of the Senate. Click here for more information.
