Subject: Public Comment on HCBS FMAP Funding

The Arc of Virginia submits the following for consideration, in regards to potential use of enhanced home and community-based services funding that is available to Virginia. 

As the statewide advocacy organization for Virginians with Developmental Disabilities and their families, we respectfully insist that crucial funding priorities have been inadequately addressed, or missed entirely, so far amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These items are essential to helping support our vulnerable populations, and the providers upon whom they rely; with our DD System already overburdened, we urgently need to invest a great deal of these newest federal relief funds into priorities that will help avert additional, more dire crises while also working towards building capacity to meet the needs of all individuals. 

Increasing access to HCBS services and supports:

• Equalize the day rate for Supported Living Residential waiver service

  • “One-time” spending opportunity to fix the inequity between Supported Living and Group Home rates. 

  • Rates should not dictate choice between living in a congregate setting versus one's own home. 

• Provider Capacity Payments for DD Waiver-specific services 

  • 2% of 2019 calendar year billing

  • The reimbursement structure made available to certain providers during the initial round of federal relief funding was not sufficient to meet the ongoing needs and struggles of DD Waiver service providers.

• Provide access to vital technology for adults with Developmental Disabilities 

  • Up to $1,000 for adults currently receiving DD waiver services

  • Separate from funding under Assistive Technology, the intent here is to provide a small sum of supportive funding that will ensure all adults with DD are able to access essential tech (such as a tablet) for ongoing community, workplace, and social engagement - including the ability to access virtual services and support.

• Fund a statewide Outreach and Education Campaign to increase awareness and access to the currently under-utilized inclusive services 

  • Provide accessible, comprehensive information for individuals and families on the wide array of home and community-based services available in Virginia that support inclusive community based services 

Workforce Development: 

• Retention Payments for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)

  • $1,500 per person

  • Applicable to DSPs currently employed to provide DD waiver specific services and have worked at least 200 hours

By investing relief funds in these priorities, the Commonwealth will be directly benefiting Virginians with DD, their families, and the providers entrusted with their care -- and working towards enhancing, expanding, and strengthening our services and supports system. 

Thank you for your consideration. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions, or if we can be of any assistance in this process.