Council on direct support professionals established, report required, and money appropriated.

HF 2421 establishes a 18-member Council on Direct Support Professionals to address staffing shortages in Minnesota. The council, including state agency leaders, service providers, people with lived experience, and advocates, must develop a statewide strategic plan by 2026 to improve access to direct support services. These services help people with disabilities or older adults with daily needs like bathing, cooking, and community access. The bill appropriates funds for the council’s work and requires a final report to lawmakers, directly affecting direct support workers and the individuals relying on these services across Minnesota.