NY S01575

Establishes a professional credentialing pilot program within the Office of Mental Hygiene to develop and implement credentials for direct support professionals in state-operated facilities and not-for-profit providers.

Pilot participants shall be geographically dispersed throughout the state, with priority given to regions with the greatest need, and selected by the commissioner in consultation with regional offices and workforce transformation centers.

Program shall include a credentialing and education program utilizing best practices and national competency standards, plus a comprehensive training program that may include online training, mentorships, and support groups.

Establishes an advisory council of 21 members (plus the commissioner as chair) with representatives from direct support professional groups, higher education institutions, regional workforce centers, direct support professionals themselves, and self-advocates with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Requires the office to submit a report by November 15, 2026 to legislative leadership detailing pilot program progress, recruitment and retention rates, number of credentialed professionals, quality improvements, and recommendations for statewide implementation.