New Budget Released by Governor for Developmental Services

California Governor Gavin Newsom Discusses His Revised Budget, Released Thursday, May 9

Thursday, May 9th, Governor Newsom released his “May Revise” budget, which is updated from his January budget based on actual tax revenue received by the state. The Governor’s January budget included no significant increases for services that support Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) (except for increases based on a growing caseload, which only maintains the status quo). The Governor’s reasoning for not including increases was that the state’s long-awaited rate study, which would bring to light the true investment needed to provide quality services and supports, was going to be released in March, and the Governor was going to wait until after that.

The rate study, which is still in draft form, concluded underfunding of $1.8 billion; however, on Thursday the Governor only proposed to increase services by $165 million next fiscal year and only $330 million the year after that. The Governor also proposed to “sunset” those increases, meaning that they would go away in two years unless re-appropriated. This modest investment doesn’t include any guarantee of additional investment over the next couple years to reach the full amount of $1.8 billion. While this budget would undoubtedly benefit a few people, without question the Governor’s proposed budget falls far short of what the community hopes and expects from the Legislature and administration this year.

One bright spot in the Governor’s budget is the suspension of the 14-day uniform holiday schedule, that was scheduled to begin on July 1. This would have forced individuals and families to go without certain services on 14 days during the year, but the suspension of its enforcement will allow regional centers to individualize the needs for people regardless of holidays. This proposal, however, also would sunset in two years and potentially causing the 14 days to be re-enforced.

The Legislature has until June 15 to review, discuss, and vote on a final budget to send back to the Governor. The time for advocacy and outreach to the Legislature is now. You can get involved and take action here.

Jordan Lindsey, Executive Director, The Arc of California