Direct support professional certification pilot project established, report required, and money appropriated.

HF 1742 establishes a three-year pilot program to certify direct support professionals who assist Minnesotans with disabilities or older adults with daily living needs. The bill requires a 80-hour training curriculum (over 8 weeks) meeting state standards, provides scholarships with a $20/hour work stipend, and creates a "certified direct support professional" credential. Providers using certified workers in covered programs (like community-based services for people with disabilities) would receive an enhanced payment rate of 118.75% of the standard medical assistance rate, pending federal approval. The pilot will be evaluated to assess workforce impact, economic benefits in Anoka and Dakota Counties, and potential for statewide expansion.