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Bill

Bill

HR 70

Relative to Direct Support Professional Recognition Week.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Addis and 73 co-sponsors

California designates an annual Direct Support Professional Recognition Week to honor workers providing essential care to disabled and vulnerable populations.

Read. Adopted. (Page 2899.).
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Bill Summary · HR 70

Legislative bill overview

HR 70 designates a specific week in California as "Direct Support Professional Recognition Week" to honor and acknowledge direct support professionals (DSPs) who provide essential care and assistance to individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable populations. The bill was introduced, referred to committee, passed unanimously, and adopted by the legislature in early September 2025.

Why is this important

Direct support professionals are frontline workers in California's disability services and long-term care systems, yet they often work with limited recognition, low wages, and high turnover rates. Designating an official recognition week brings visibility to this workforce and may draw attention to systemic challenges like staffing shortages and compensation issues that affect service quality for vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive: Critics may argue that a recognition week addresses visibility without requiring actual policy changes, funding increases, or wage improvements that DSPs advocate for
  • Resource allocation: Some may question whether legislative focus on recognition is appropriate when concrete workforce challenges (training, retention, compensation) require direct intervention and resources
  • Scope and specificity: Questions could arise about whether a single designated week adequately honors year-round work or whether more comprehensive workforce development legislation would be more meaningful

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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