New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5185

Introduced
1/14/25  
Refer
1/14/25  

Caption

Provides for annual fellowship stipends for Direct Support Professional Career Development Program participants.

Impact

The bill amends previous legislation, specifically P.L.2021, c.421, which initially allocated a one-time $1,000,000 appropriation to establish the Direct Support Professional Career Development Program. By requiring ongoing annual appropriations from the General Fund starting in Fiscal Year 2026, the bill aims to ensure sustainable funding for fellowship stipends that cover living expenses for participants. This change signifies a commitment to continually invest in the education and support of direct support professionals, which may positively impact their workforce retention and development.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5185 introduces provisions for annual fellowship stipends aimed at participants in the Direct Support Professional Career Development Program. This legislation responds to the needs of direct support professionals who are critical in providing services and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With this bill, the State of New Jersey seeks to enhance career development opportunities for these professionals, thus improving the quality of care they provide.

Contention

While the bill presents advancements for direct support professionals, it may generate discussions regarding the appropriateness of funding allocations. Some stakeholders might question whether the fiscal commitments specified in the bill are sufficient to meet the rising demand for direct support services in New Jersey. Additionally, as the bill includes stipulations on limiting administrative expenses to a maximum of 10%, there could be scrutiny on how efficiently the funds are managed and utilized within the program.

Companion Bills

NJ S4017

Same As Provides for annual fellowship stipends for Direct Support Professional Career Development Program participants.

Previously Filed As

NJ A3597

Provides for annual fellowship stipends for Direct Support Professional Career Development Program participants.

NJ AB2414

An act to amend Sections 4474.17, 4511.5, 4512, 4519.10, and 4641.1 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to developmental services.

NJ HF2616

Equitable Development Action grant funding provided for training and support of direct support professionals.

NJ SF2554

Equitable Development Action grant appropriation for training and support of direct support professionals

NJ HB2047

Establishing the Local News Fellowship Program; imposing duties on an administering institution; and providing for administration of the Local News Fellowship Program.

NJ HR219

Recognizing the contributions of the Charles B. Rangel Graduate Fellowship Program, the Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program, the William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship, and the Donald M. Payne International Development Graduate Fellowship Program to advance America's national security, development, and diplomacy efforts.

NJ A4261

Requires DHS to develop enhanced training curriculum for direct support professionals.

NJ A2227

Provides incentives for certified nurse aides and nursing students to work as direct support professionals; makes appropriation.

NJ S1128

Requires Director of Division of Developmental Disabilities to align rates for self-directed employees with maximum service provider rates.

NJ S2845

Increases pay for direct support professionals; makes appropriation.

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