Data on Direct Support Professionals improved under Fitzpatrick, Katko bill

U.S. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and John Katko (R-NY) on July 28 cosponsored a bipartisan bill to address the workforce shortage of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), who work to help adults with disabilities live independently.

“Individuals with disabilities deserve good care providers. We need to help those that care for the disabled and ensure that there are more DSPs willing to assist those that need care,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on this important legislation to provide support for our disabled community.”

The Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act, H.R. 4779, which the congressmen introduced with bill sponsor U.S Rep. Kathleen Rice (D-NY), would provide the U.S. Department of Labor and the private sector with data to better understand and respond to the shortage of DSPs, who assist adults with disabilities with communication, on-the-job coaching and daily living needs, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers. 

“DSPs are crucial to the well-being and independence of many Americans with disabilities,” Rep. Katko said. “For this reason, I am proud to join Rep. Rice in reintroducing bipartisan legislation to address the critical shortage of DSPs in this country. I will continue my work in Congress to ensure those living with disabilities have access to the resources they need.” 

By improving data collection, H.R. 4779 would provide states and the federal government with more accurate information about the DSP workforce trends to help identify workforce shortage areas and report accurate turnover rates; and help identify where to implement targeted workforce training programs for DSPs, according to the summary.

U.S. Sens. Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) in April introduced the companion bill, S. 1437, in their chamber.

The legislation is supported by the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals Inc., the American Network of Community Options and Resources, the Arc of the United States, the Association of People Supporting Employment First, and the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities.