Budget Amendment ID: FY2023-S4-535

EHS 535

Community-Based Day and Work Programs

Mr. Keenan, Ms. DiZoglio, Mr. Cronin, Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Moore and Collins, Ms. Moran, Ms. Gobi, Messrs. Hinds, Timilty and O'Connor, Ms. Lovely and Ms. Rausch moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5920-2025, by striking out item 5920-2025 and inserting in place thereof the following item:-

"5920-2025 For community-based day and work programs and associated transportation costs for adults; provided, that the department of developmental services shall provide transportation that shall be prioritized by need; provided further, that the department shall support individuals with disabilities who transitioned from employment services offered at sheltered workshops to community-based employment as part of the commonwealth’s employment first initiative; provided further, that any public-private partnerships with employers and nonprofits shall encourage the highest level of independence among individuals with disabilities and shall provide options to maximize community involvement and participation; provided further, that not more than $15,000,000 of additional funds provided in fiscal year 2023 shall be expended by the department to: (a) re-design the service system to respond to the new needs created by the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring new day services components or modalities, including, but not limited to: remote and virtual supports and in-home or in-community services; (b) provide “bridge” funding for community-based provider agencies to re-design their current service model, including, but not limited to, recruiting and hiring staff, training staff for new roles and providing technology supports for staff during the transition; (c) develop a more fluid service model based on the real-time, individual needs of constituents otherwise unable to engage in traditional day services; and (d) plan for increased service need that may occur during the fiscal year in response to increased vaccinations and any improvement in the public health emergency; and provided further, that not later than April 3, 2023, the department shall issue a report to the house and senate committees on ways and means and the joint committee on children, families and persons with disabilities detailing: (i) the number of eligible individuals employed in community-based employment in fiscal year 2022 and the number estimated for fiscal year 2023; (ii) the number and types of community-based employment partners; (iii) the outcomes measured; and (iv) recommendations for expansion ....................................$278,362,283".