Provides relative to the Community and Family Support System Fund. (8/1/22)
The proposed changes have implications for how funding is allocated within the state for developmental disabilities programs. Specifically, while it maintains current funding allocation strategies focused on waiver services, it removes a stipulation that required at least 50% of certain fee proceeds to fund the Early Steps intervention program for infants and toddlers with disabilities. This change could potentially affect both the emphasis and structure of funding available for early intervention services under the program.
Senate Bill 96, introduced by Senator Hewitt, aims to amend existing legislation regarding the Community and Family Support System Fund. The bill proposes to change the name of this fund to the Disability Services Fund, thereby aligning the naming with its intended purpose. The bill retains provisions that ensure the fund's money will be utilized to enhance the state's capacity to address the complex needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, particularly focusing on increasing the number of waiver services recipients.
The sentiment surrounding SB 96 has mostly been supportive, largely because the bill aims to improve the clarity and focus of the fund's purpose. However, some concerns have been voiced regarding the removal of the funding commitment for the Early Steps program, indicating that certain advocates and stakeholders may perceive a risk of reduced support for early intervention services. Overall, the bill is viewed positively among legislators who prioritize services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
A notable point of contention regarding SB 96 centers on the removal of the provision mandating a specific funding level for the Early Steps program, which some advocates worry could lead to insufficient support for crucial services provided to infants and toddlers with disabilities. This alteration raises concerns about the state's commitment to early intervention, a critical aspect of developmental services that has historically received considerable attention in funding discussions.