Page 286, after line 15, insert:
"D. The Secretary of Health and Human Resources, in cooperation with the Secretary of Commerce and Trade, the Secretary of Education and the Chief of Workforce Development, shall undertake a comprehensive study of the community direct care workforce who provide support services for people with disabilities, the elderly and children with special needs. The study may build on current efforts taking place on workforce issues in the Commonwealth. The study shall provide a multi-year plan to improve the quantity and quality of direct care workers in community health and human services. The Secretary shall involve advocacy groups, consumers, family members, the Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services, the Virginia Association of Community Services Boards, private providers and other pertinent agencies and organizations. The study shall be completed by October 31, 2007." |