Increases pay for direct support professionals; makes appropriation.

This bill creates a state-funded program to increase wages for direct support professionals (DSPs) who provide essential care to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Department of Human Services will distribute funds to employers (like group homes, community programs, and service providers) to raise DSP pay, addressing staffing shortages. Employers must use the funds solely for wage increases for existing or new DSPs, with the department setting application rules and compliance standards. The program is funded through an immediate appropriation from the General Fund and ends once the allocated funds are distributed.