Last month, Governor Murphy unveiled a $58.1 billion FY26 State Budget proposal in a difficult Budget year, with New Jersey facing a structural deficit that's approaching $4 billion and uncertainty about Medicaid funding from the federal level. Despite the challenges, we are very pleased that the Budget includes $18 million to increase DSP wages in order to stay ahead of the state's rising minimum wage which increases annually based on the CPI. The Budget also includes funding to move 318 people off the Waiting List, which continues to be a priority issue for The Arc of New Jersey. We are also happy to report that there was no announcement of cuts to the fee-for-service Medicaid rates that fund the critical services available to people with IDD through the Supports Program and the Community Care Program. We thank everyone who made their voice heard, via our action alerts, to prevent cuts in the Governor's proposal. Unfortunately, the Governor's Budget does includes cuts to discretionary and non-competitive grants. We are still working to fully understand the details of the Budget proposal and will continue our advocacy with the Legislature in the weeks and months ahead. The Arc of New Jersey's Executive Director Tom Baffuto attended the Budget Address in Trenton and was an invited guest at the Governor's post-event reception.

Pictured above, left to right, is Governor Phil Murphy with The Arc of NJ's Executive Director Tom Baffuto.

Join us for our Zoom with Us 2025 series! This helpful series is designed for families of individuals with disabilities navigating the transition to adulthood. Register for each session below:

Understanding Support Coordination

Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Register here: https://tinyurl.com/328te7m3

An Overview of Self-Direction Services, Personal Care Assistant (PCA), and The Personal Preference Program (PPP)

Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Register here: https://tinyurl.com/ycytcysa

Planning for the Future: What to Consider

Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Register here: https://tinyurl.com/mtxxr3c4

Please be sure to register for each event separately using the provided links. We look forward to seeing you there!