The House Ways & Means FY 2016 budget contains very good news for supports and services provided through the Department of Developmental Services. Overall, DDS programs were funded $17.5 million over Governor Charlie Baker's House One recommendations. Key Budget line items include: Line Item 5920-3000 DDS Respite & Family Support The HWM budget moved $12.3 in Adult Autism Services to a new line item (5920-3005) and then restored $8 million to Family Support ensuring that families seeking to keep their loved ones at home will be able to access in home therapies, nursing supports and other crucial services less costly than out of home placements.
Line Item 5920-2025 DDS Day & Employment ServicesThe HWM budget restored $9.7 million to this account to ensure that so called Day Hab Wrap Services, inclusive of support assistance for program participants with toileting, feeding and behavioral supports. Line Item 5920-2026 DDS Blueprint Conversion The HWM budget added $2 million over last year's appropriation but reduced the Governor's recommendation down from $5 million funding this item at $3 million. This line seeks to promote the closure of sheltered workshops and expand Supported Employment and Community Based Day Supports.
ADDP Members are grateful to Chairman Brian Dempsey, his staff and the entire Ways and Means Committee for their support and responsiveness to the concerns of Commonwealth citizens with developmental disabilities.
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