WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan bill introduced by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) to help address the critical need for more Direct Support Professionals in the workforce by improving the data collected on workforce trends. Direct Support Professionals assist with communication, provide on-the-job coaching, and help with daily living needs for individuals who experience disabilities.

Home- and community-based providers in New England and across the country struggle to recruit and retain Direct Support Professionals. The bipartisan Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act would more accurately measure the need for Direct Support Professionals by improving data on workforce trends collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“Direct Support Professionals provide invaluable support for people who experience disabilities and their families, and I have seen the difference they can make first-hand as the mother of a son who experiences severe disabilities,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan bill addresses the need for more Direct Support Professionals by improving data collection. I am glad to see it unanimously pass the Senate and urge my colleagues in the House to pass it immediately.”

“Every day, Direct Support Professionals work hard to provide critical support to individuals with disabilities that leads to more independent living and a better quality of life,” said Senator Collins. “We face a considerable shortage of information on the work they do and the important services they provide. I’m pleased the Senate has passed this bipartisan bill that would address this information deficit by directing OMB to improve data collection to help us better understand and address the challenges Direct Support Professionals experience.”

This bill is part of Senator Hassan’s continued efforts to support caregivers. Senator Hassan joined colleagues in reintroducing the Credit for Caring Act, which would provide a tax cut of up to $5,000 for eligible and working family caregivers. She also introduced legislation to simplify access to information for seniors and caregivers through the 1-800 MEDICARE hotline.

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