Numerous comments refer to the workforce crisis in DD services, but it bears repeating.  Rates are a significant barrier to DD Waiver providers' ability to recruiting and to retain dedicated and competent staff.  Without adequate staffing levels, the number of persons with DD who can be served will remain below capacity and the variety of services will be limited. 

The tight market for professionals dedicated to serving persons with disabilities pre-dates COVID, but an online search of job postings for “Direct Support Professionals” will demonstrate to you just how high the demand is for staff to serve individuals with DD. 

As noted by others, utilizing the increased FMAP funding will serve as an excellent "bridge" to the rate rebase that is underway.  Additional financial relief, such as the COVID Retainer Payments, would also be a significant help to many providers that were hit hard by a dramatic decrease in Waiver revenues attributable to COVID. 

Thank you for your consideration of the many comments submitted on behalf of Virginians with Developmental Disabilities.