There are multiple definitions of DD.  One lists six life activities, and eligibility hinges on functional limitations in at least three of them.  One federal definition lists seven life activities, with a requirement for functional limitations in three.  The seventh) additional life activity listed in this federal definition is "economic self-sufficiency." 

The definition chosen by DBHDS for the Individual and Family Support Program appears to be the federal definition which includes economic self-sufficiency as an eligibility criteria.  Using this broader definition could have impact(s) listed below:

1.  More persons may qualify for the Individual and Family Support Program. (We already have more applicants than we can fund.)

2.  It may set a precedent of using the broader definition of DD.  If this broader definition of DD is also used when DBHDS fully expands all services to persons with DD, then a larger population of individuals may be eligible to receive services.  More eligible individuals will drive the need for more resources.  Some individuals with DD who are eligible on the basis of economic self-sufficiency may need different resources than are now available within the service delivery system.