MN HF1742

Commissioner of Human Services must establish a three-year direct support professional certification pilot project in Anoka and Dakota Counties, partnering with the Office of Higher Education, Metropolitan Center for Independent Living, and postsecondary institutions

Curriculum must include at least 80 hours of instruction over a minimum of eight weeks, based on the National Direct Services Workforce Resource Center's Core Competencies

Scholarships will provide participants a work stipend of $20 per hour for the 80 hours of instruction; $150,000 is allocated to the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living for coordination

Certified direct support professionals qualify for an enhanced Medical Assistance reimbursement rate of 118.75% of the standard rate, pending federal approval by October 1, 2025

Commissioner must hire an independent evaluator and submit a report to the legislature within six months of pilot completion, including analysis of workforce impact, economic contribution, and statewide expansion strategies