Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act

This bill, titled the "Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act," requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to consider revising the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system . The primary goal is to establish a separate occupational code specifically for direct support professionals (DSPs) as a healthcare support occupation during the first SOC revision following the bill's enactment. Congress finds that DSPs are crucial for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, enabling them to lead self-directed lives. Currently, the lack of a distinct classification hinders the ability of states and the federal government to accurately assess labor market shortages and high turnover rates within this vital profession. Creating a separate code would rectify an inaccurate representation in the SOC system, acknowledge the unique work performed by DSPs, and facilitate better data collection and analysis. Should the OMB Director decide against creating this separate code, the bill mandates a report to Congress within 30 days of that decision, explaining the rationale. The Act specifies that no new funds are authorized for its implementation.