My children have severe autism that requires immediate and knowledgeable responses to potential triggers. I have the training and experience to handle these emergencies effectively. An unfamiliar aide might not react as quickly or correctly, putting my child at risk. As an LRI, I should be the first choice for paid personal care services. The provisions in HB909/SB488 have ensured that I can remain the primary caregiver, providing the immediate care my child’s condition demands. The Virginia General Assembly’s actions have empowered me to keep my child safe in our home environment. Altering these provisions would jeopardize this security. The current waiver draft could force us to trust someone who may not fully understand the severity of my child's allergies, leading to potentially life-threatening situations. This change would compromise my ability to ensure my child's safety during allergic reactions.