The Arc of Northern Virginia is fully in support of the following five proposals for the use of the FMAP funding, which mirror recommendations being put forth by The Arc of Virginia. 

• Match the Supported Living (waiver service) Rate to the Group Home Rate to ensure equal opportunity for people with the most complex needs to live in their own homes. 

• Implement a Statewide Outreach Campaign to educate people with intellectual and developmental disabilities about inclusive waiver services available to them in the DD Waiver, especially focusing on those under utilized services.

• Provide Support Payments for Developmental Disability Specific Waiver services in order to sustain a viable provider community.

• Provide Direct Payments for Direct Support Professionals.

• Invest in benefits planning that encourages employment for people with disabilities, particularly in response to the impact of minimum wage increases.