Sacramento, CA – After a two-year legislative and budget battle to increase funding for developmental disability service providers, Assemblymember Holden has claimed victory after last year’s $25 million State Budget increase was matched with an additional $15 million in federal dollars by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
“The new $40 million in funds is exactly what we need to retain vital services for individuals and families living with disabilities including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disabilities,” said Assemblymember Holden.
With the passage of local minimum wage laws that outpace the states, organizations serving people with developmental disabilities are strained to continue their work as the reimbursement rates for those services are set and controlled by the State. The new “bridge funding” will keep their doors open while they continue to adhere to local mandates.
The victory comes after a 2-year legislative and budget battle by Assemblymember Holden and organizations that provide development disabilities services. This year, they are requesting an 8% budget increase.
“Thanks to the work of these service providers, we now see people living, working and thriving as members of our communities and it is essential these service providers remain open and funded at appropriate levels.”
###