SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Developmental Services released a long-awaited study last Friday evening regarding payments for services for persons with developmental disabilities. The study indicates that if provider rates are set fairly, the state would need to increase the budget by more than $1.8 billion dollars to provide adequate services for this community.

Prior to the rate study release, Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) delivered a letter from all Senate Republicans to the Chairs of the Senate and Assembly Budget Committees requesting several budget actions. One of the requests included an 8 percent across-the-board payment rate increase as a down payment for providers who serve the developmentally disabled community. Advocates and stakeholders agree there is a need for a transitional rate increase in this budget to sustain services while the state determines how to implement the larger rate study, including improved accountability and transparency.

“The recent rate study supports Senate Republicans’ request to place a higher priority for persons with developmental disabilities and their families. The state made a promise to serve this community, but that promise falls short if we do not provide enough money for necessary services.