Bill > S06334

This bill expands the definition of nursing-related services by allowing direct support staff working in non-facility-based programs for people with developmental disabilities to perform certain tasks under specific conditions. These tasks must be performed under the instruction of a service recipient, family, or household member, following an authorized practitioner's care plan. A registered professional nurse must first determine which tasks can be performed based on task complexity, staff skills, the service recipient's health needs, and the ability of the service recipient or family to train the staff. The bill includes several important safeguards: direct support staff must complete required training, cannot assess medication needs, cannot represent themselves as licensed nurses, must be separately certified for specific medical tasks like medication administration, and cannot provide tasks if the registered nurse determines the service recipient or family cannot provide proper instruction. Additionally, the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities must conduct criminal and background checks on new direct support staff. The legislation will take effect 18 months after becoming law and is set to expire on July 1, 2030, providing a structured approach to expanding supportive care options while maintaining strict professional and safety standards.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6334