Synopsis:

Signed: H.S. 1 for H.B. 104 was signed into law by Gov. John Carney on Sept. 4, 2018.

H.S. 1 for H.B. 104 will increase the rates the state uses to pay service providers for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who live in group homes or residential facilities. According to a 2013 market study commissioned by the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS), the state funded providers at 75 percent of the market rate, using figures set in 2004. This bill will gradually increase rates to 100 percent of the market level, subject to available funding. Supporters argued that low reimbursement rates contribute to turnover and staffing shortages. They said that rate increases would enable service providers to raise the hourly wages of direct support professionals (DSPs), an essential step to keep people with I/DD safe. Fully funding the program will cost almost $40 million in federal matching funds to reach the market rate set in the DDDS rate study. Advocates requested $9 million be appropriated in the budget for fiscal year 2019; the Joint Finance Committee approved $4.67 million

Supporters:

Reps. Smith (D), Bolden (D), Brady (D), Carson (D), Hensley (R), Jaques (D), J. Johnson (D), Kowalko (D), Mitchell (D), Mulrooney (D), Osienski (D), Paradee (D), Williams (D), Wilson (R), Yearick (R); Sens. Townsend (D), Henry (D), Lavelle (R), Lopez (R), Pettyjohn (R), Sokola (D); A-Team Delaware (Families Speaking Up), Ability Network Delaware, The Arc of Delaware, Autism Delaware, Best Buddies Delaware, Delaware Catholic Advocacy Network, Delaware Foundation Reaching Citizens with Intellectual disABILITIES, Down Syndrome Association of Delaware, Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Mosaic in Delaware.

Opponents:

None reported.

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