The bill establishes a three-year pilot project for direct support professional certification in Minnesota, led by the commissioner of human services in collaboration with various educational and community organizations. The project aims to implement a direct support curriculum that meets specific training requirements and leads to the credential of certified direct support professionals. The curriculum will consist of at least 80 hours of instruction over a minimum of eight weeks and will be based on established competencies for the direct service workforce. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for scholarships to support individuals pursuing this certification, as well as enhanced payment rates for services provided by certified professionals in covered programs.

To ensure the effectiveness of the pilot project, the commissioner of human services will hire an independent evaluator to assess its impact on the direct care workforce needs in Anoka and Dakota Counties. The evaluation will also explore potential strategies for statewide expansion and its economic implications. A report detailing the evaluation findings and accreditation criteria will be submitted to relevant legislative committees within six months of the project's completion. The bill appropriates funds from the general fund for the pilot project, including a specific grant for the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living to assist in its development and coordination.