The Arc is grateful for a continued positive outcome in the FY’22 Conference Committee budget. Thank you to the Conference Committee members in the House and Senate.
The significant gains in the DDS budget (consistent with The Arc’s budget requests) resulted in $15 million for Day and Work programs, an additional $7 million for Family Support and Respite, and an additional $7 million for the Transportation line items. Other line items for our community were maintained or increased, as seen in the chart found here.
The legislature’s supportive eye is evident in several DDS line items by including reference to supports to address COVID-related impact upon constituents. Thanks to Speaker Mariano, Senate President Spilka and General Court members!
Additional Outside Language passed in the Conference Committee Budget impacting our community includes:
- Tax credits for employers hiring persons with disabilities. (#29)
- Autism Commission – Study the impact of the outbreak of the 2019 novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, on Black, Latinx, Asian American and Pacific Islander, Native American and other individuals of color who have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. (#124)
- Language for Human Service Transportation Commission includes various groups including two appointees of The Arc and several disability organizations. (#134)
Now on to Governor Baker to maintain these items and pass this final FY’22 Budget!
