I would like you to consider the struggles of living in a rural area and providing support for a family member with a disability. I am the mother of an adult son with Down Syndrome and various medical issues. We had agency directed waiver for many years but it was difficult finding suitable providers. I left my job (making 3 times what I make as his provider) in order to care for him and I am his main provider. His well being is my main concern. Please consider making this allowance permanent.

I also ask you to support dropping the education requirements for Service Facilitators. Currently we are without a SF in our area and such his annual plan has not been submitted to DMAS in a timely manner. There are many who have worked with this population in the past without a BS that would be suitable for SF. Experience should count as education.

Thank you for your consideration in these areas.