arrow_back Back to App

Recognizing Direct Support Professionals and Addressing the Critical Care Workforce Shortage

The Senate designates the week starting September 8, 2024, as National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week. The resolution highlights the essential role these workers play in helping millions of individuals with disabilities live independently within their communities. It also draws attention to the critical workforce shortage caused by low wages and inadequate benefits, urging the federal government to consider establishing a separate occupational classification for DSPs to improve data collection.
Key points
Designates a national week of recognition for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to acknowledge their vital role in community-based care.
Highlights the severe shortage of DSPs due to low pay and poor benefits, which negatively impacts the safety and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Calls for the federal government to consider creating a distinct occupational code for DSPs to better track and address workforce challenges.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Adopted
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_SRES_817
Sponsor: Sen. Cardin, Benjamin L. [D-MD]
Process start date: 2024-09-16
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

A resolution designating the week beginning September 8, 2024, as "National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week".

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_SRES_817.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-09-16.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Designates a national week of recognition for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to acknowledge their vital role in community-based care.
  • Highlights the severe shortage of DSPs due to low pay and poor benefits, which negatively impacts the safety and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
  • Calls for the federal government to consider creating a distinct occupational code for DSPs to better track and address workforce challenges.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Adopted.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Cardin, Benjamin L. [D-MD].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S6068; text: CR S6054)

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Health Benefits Labor