The Senate and House approved their budget recommendations, sending to the Governor a budget that includes 500 Mental Retardation Waiver Program (MRWP) services, 175 Independent Care Waiver Programs (ICWP) slots and a 3% rate increase for providers of DD and ICWP supports!
Click here for a complete list of budget items with dollar amounts.
Given the uncertainty in the economy, this additional funding for community supports is good news! We are thankful to the General Assembly for their support. We also know that the reality is that at the current level of funding, Georgia's waiting list for these supports will be more next year than today – not less.
There are currently 5,542 people on the MRWP community waiting list with this list growing by over 1,000 people annually. Also, while there are more than 129 individuals officially waiting for ICWP supports, we know that there are thousands living right now in nursing homes and other facilities that could benefit from the ICWP support.
The budget now goes to Governor Perdue for his signature. The Governor has until May 14th to sign the FY2009 budget into law. He can also decide to veto any specific funding item while approving the remainder of the bill.
All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) is Atlanta's preeminent resource on developmental disabilities, providing support services to families for more than 55 years. We are often the one place where people with developmental disabilities can go to achieve personal empowerment, family stability and community participation. AADD provides family support; public policy and advocacy; and community engagement.
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