New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S04834

Introduced
2/13/25  
Refer
2/13/25  

Caption

Establishes a direct support professional worker registry of persons who have successfully completed a direct support professional worker education or training program approved by the commissioner or the accrediting body of other states or federal authorities, including the military.

Summary

Bill S04834 aims to establish a direct support professional worker registry in New York. This registry will include individuals who have successfully completed an approved education or training program for direct support professionals. The registry will be maintained by the office responsible for mental hygiene law and will be accessible to various stakeholders, including providers and individuals enrolled in self-direction programs. The bill outlines the criteria for enrollment, including automatic enrollment upon completion of training, and provisions for opting out of the registry.

Impact

The establishment of this registry will impact state laws by creating a standardized system for tracking qualified direct support professionals. It will enhance accountability and transparency in the hiring of these workers, as providers will have access to verified information about their qualifications. Additionally, the bill prohibits any fees for registration or removal from the registry, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede access to this professional pathway.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill S04834 appears to be generally positive, as it seeks to improve the quality of care provided by direct support professionals through better training and accountability. However, there may be concerns regarding privacy and the implications of having a public registry, which could lead to discussions about the balance between transparency and individual rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the privacy of personal information included in the registry, as well as the potential for misuse of the registry by employers. Some stakeholders may argue that while the registry enhances accountability, it could also lead to stigmatization of individuals who have faced disciplinary actions, even if they have since rehabilitated. The balance between public safety and individual rights will likely be a key area of debate.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A04838

Establishes a direct support professional worker registry of persons who have successfully completed a direct support professional worker education or training program approved by the commissioner of mental health.

NY SJR14

Directing The Department Of Education To Conduct A Study And Report On Workforce Data Relating To Public Education Support Professionals.

NY HF1144

Commissioner of human services directed to seek federal authority to provide supportive parenting services to people eligible for personal care assistance or community first services and supports, and commissioner directed to seek federal waivers.

NY HB6137

Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act

NY SF1418

Direct support professionals council establishment and appropriation

NY SF530

A bill for an act relating to support of direct care services and the direct care workforce, establishing a state minimum hourly wage for direct care workers under the Medicaid program, and including a contingent effective date.

NY SB3211

Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act

NY 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.

NY SF2554

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

NY A4261

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

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