Landmark Decision Made
The decision by Governor Charlie Baker and Secretary Marylou Sudders to right-size the Department of Developmental Services’ Turning 22 budget is a major policy change. The Arc has been advocating for it since the 2009 recession. The Turning 22 program funds people who have an intellectual or other disability and require adult services. Without this funding, persons and families often face tough choices: a parent may have to leave his/her job, a young adult may be stuck at home in a potentially unsafe and isolating situation, and other undesirable outcomes. The Governor’s Fiscal Year 2018 budget, which was released yesterday, fully funds this line item with $24 million, while addressing ongoing needs for this year’s graduates.
The Senate has begun the review process for their version of the FY’17 Budget with an expected release date of May 17th. Part of that effort involves The Arc and other providers working with Senators to advocate for budget line items that will benefit those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The final House version of the budget line items closely reflected the same amounts that were listed in the governor’s budget. The hope is to have additional increases especially in two line items DDS 5920-2000 (Community Residential) and DDS 5920-2025 (Day and Employment Services). One of the major concerns is the impact of the 979 students who will turn 22. Without the additional funding, they may lose services and employment.