Governor Newsom shared his 2021-2022 state budget proposal in a news conference on Friday, January 8th.  The Governor stated his proposed budget was developed with a strong focus on the urgent needs of Californians, which includes wildfire preparation and addressing the fallout from COVID-19.

AbilityPath is pleased that the Governor’s current budget proposal does not include any reductions to the current funding level for the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) system.  Some of the DDS budget highlights include:

• Estimated DDS caseload growth is expected to grow to 387,000 individuals for the 2021-22 fiscal year, an increase of approximately 19,000 individuals.
• The Administration is partnering with the Department of Rehabilitation and DDS to ensure more individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are employed by the State of California.
• The supplemental rate increases we received last year will remain in effect until December 31, 2022, when they will be rolled back.
• The implementation of four mandated program closure days has been delayed to December 31, 2022.

While we are pleased with the Governor’s budget proposal it is important to acknowledge that the DDS system remains severely underfunded following a decade of cuts that have not been restored.  AbilityPath will continue to advocate for investments in the system, ensuring Californians of all abilities are accepted, respected, and included.

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