Outstanding news! The Conference Committee just released the final version of the FY27 state budget, and it incorporates ALL of The Arc’s final priorities, including:
- An additional $1.2 million for the DESE-DDS Residential Placement Prevention Program, bringing total funding to $11.7 million
- Turning 22 Stakeholder Commission, based on our Turning 22 bill to strengthen the process for all
- Funding for Operation House Call
- Workforce training initiatives to support individuals with complex, challenging behaviors
- Language ensuring that no cuts will be made to PCA services until the working group, which includes advocates like The Arc, makes their recommendations
- Stronger language around Chapter 257, ensuring stability of the workforce
Despite a challenging climate, this budget touches all of our top priorities: supporting younger families, transition-age families, the human service workforce, those with complex needs, and healthcare quality and access.
We celebrate these wins alongside our strong community advocates! We are deeply grateful for the work of our champions in the State House, including Chairs Aaron Michlewitz and Michael Rodrigues, Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka, and sponsors Senator Jo Comerford, Senator Robyn Kennedy, Senator John Keenan, Senator Jason Lewis, Representative Susannah Whipps, Representative Ken Gordon, Representative Christine Barber, and Representative John Lawn.
