1.1 	A bill for an act
1.2 	relating to workforce development; appropriating money for a grant to Equitable 
1.3 	Development Action for training and support of direct support professionals.
1.4 	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

1.5 	Section 1. APPROPRIATION; EQUITABLE DEVELOPMENT ACTION.
 1.6 	(a) $170,000 in fiscal year 2026 is appropriated from the workforce development fund 
1.7 	to the commissioner of employment and economic development for a grant to Equitable 
1.8 	Development Action to enhance the training and support provided to direct support 
1.9 	professionals (DSPs) who work with residents on a 24 hours a day, seven days a week basis, 
1.10 	provide DSPs with the necessary skills and resources to meet the evolving needs of the 
1.11 	residents, and ensure compliance with the latest regulations.
1.12 	(b) Equitable Development Action must use the money appropriated to:
1.13 	(1) implement a training program for DSPs with a focus on best practices, safety 
1.14 	protocols, emergency response, and effective communication skills and offers specialized 
1.15 	training modules to address specific needs of residents, including residents with disabilities, 
1.16 	mental health issues, and chronic illnesses;
1.17 	(2) provide ongoing support and development by establishing a support network for 
1.18 	DSPs, including access to mental health resources, peer support groups, and professional 
1.19 	counseling services;
1.20 	(3) create opportunities for continuing education and professional development to ensure 
1.21 	DSPs stay updated with the latest industry standards and practices; and
2.1 	(4) reduce the cost burden to the state by training DSPs to de-escalate issues with residents 
2.2 	resulting in fewer 911 calls and emergency interventions.
2.3 	(c) The expected program outcomes include:
2.4 	(1) improved safety and quality of care for residents;
2.5 	(2) increased career stability and job satisfaction for DSPs;
2.6 	(3) enhanced compliance with state and federal regulations;
2.7 	(4) reduced turnover rates and recruitment challenges in the DSP industry; and
2.8 	(5) enhanced delivery services by minority service providers.
2.9 	(d) This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2027.