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Every year, The Arc of Florida sets its legislative agenda—a roadmap for improving the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). This process brings together families, providers, and legislators to create positive change.
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Rate increase to retain, recruit, and support Direct Support Professionals (DSPs): Address minimum wage increase, new Department of Labor rules, and increased cost of living. According to the ANCOR Report “Crisis 2023,” 95% of organizations providing services in 45 states faced moderate to severe staffing shortages and many had to turn away new referrals due to shortages or discontinue existing services. The Arc of Florida supports the investment in the Medicaid Waiver as expansion of services statewide is critical for families and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
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Reduce the Agency for Persons with Disabilities’ (APD) Waiting List: A proposed waiver for transitioning students with I/DD out of schools is being considered and a new Pilot explored. Successful innovations and feedback from families and individuals with I/DD participating in these new programs is paramount. The Arc of Florida supports legislative and gubernatorial efforts to reduce APD’s Waiting List for those with I/DD.
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Housing for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Housing tailored to the I/DD population is crucial and continued discussions for next year’s legislative agenda is a priority. Money from previous appropriations for housing for this vulnerable population is gone, and if capital isn’t available, it will be difficult to purchase or build at current costs. The Arc of Florida supports the need for individuals with I/DD to live independently in their own community with dignity and choice.
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Vocational Rehabilitation (VR): Support implementation of the Public Consulting Group (PCG) rate study recommendations. In 2022, the VR Division commissioned the four-year phase-in plan rate study, which recommended an average 52% increase ($28.6 million) for services. The Arc of Florida supports the phased approach outlined in the PCG report and other relevant findings.
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