NY A00080

Establishes a professional credentialing pilot program within the office of mental hygiene to develop and implement credentialing standards for direct support professionals in state-operated facilities and not-for-profit providers.

Pilot program participants shall be geographically dispersed throughout New York State, with emphasis on regions with the greatest need, and selected by the commissioner in consultation with regional offices and regional centers for workforce transformation.

Initiatives shall include credentialing and education programs utilizing best practices from New York State competencies and other states, plus comprehensive training programs that may include online training, mentorships, and support groups.

Creates an advisory council of 22 members (commissioner plus 21 appointees) including direct support professionals, not-for-profit providers, regional workforce representatives, institute of higher learning staff, and self-advocates to oversee pilot program implementation.

Requires the office to submit a report by November 15, 2024 to legislative leaders detailing recruitment and retention rates, number of credentialed professionals, service quality improvements, wage impacts, identified barriers, and recommendations for a statewide credentialing program.