Albertina Kerr urges Oregon legislature to boost funding for direct support professionals

Oregon's Joint Committee on Ways and Means convened on March 22, 2025, to address critical funding needs for direct support professionals (DSPs) and safety concerns for frontline workers in the state. The meeting highlighted urgent calls for increased financial support to ensure that DSPs, who provide essential care to individuals with developmental disabilities, receive competitive wages.

Lisonbee Stark, CEO of Albertina Kerr, emphasized the importance of DSPs, stating that the organization employs over 300 professionals who work tirelessly in residential homes across the Tri-County area. Stark pointed out that the current reimbursement rate of $18.77 per hour falls short of the average wage of $21.31 that they pay, leading to a significant funding gap. She urged the legislature to prioritize funding for these vital roles, noting that without competitive wages, the ability to attract and retain talent in this sector is severely compromised.

The discussion also included a stark reminder of the financial strain on non-profit organizations that rely heavily on state funding. Stark explained that the organization is forced to absorb rising costs, such as a 13% increase in employee healthcare expenses, which is unsustainable. She called for a reevaluation of the budget to ensure that DSPs can earn a living wage of at least $25 per hour.

In addition to the concerns about DSP wages, Janet Rosen, a frontline worker with the Oregon Department of Human Services, raised alarms about safety issues faced by workers in child welfare. She described the increasingly dangerous conditions under which they operate, stressing the need for a budget that prioritizes worker safety to protect both employees and the vulnerable populations they serve.

The meeting underscored the pressing need for legislative action to address these issues, with advocates calling for immediate support to enhance the working conditions and compensation for those who provide essential services to Oregon's most vulnerable citizens. As discussions continue, the implications of these funding requests will be closely monitored, with the potential to significantly impact the quality of care and safety for both workers and the communities they serve.