Makes an appropriation to the office for people with developmental disabilities for the cost of increased development of residential facilities

BILL NUMBER:S5708

Title of bill

An act making an appropriation to the office for people with developmental disabilities for the purpose of increasing residential treatment facilities

Purpose

This legislation would make an appropriation to the office for people with developmental disabilities so that they can increase residential treatment facilities for those who need them.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 of the bill appropriates fifty million dollars to the office for people with developmental disabilities to assist the office for people with developmental disabilities with the development and operation of programs, supports and services for new residential opportunities throughout New York state.

Section 2 is the effective date.

Justification

The office for people with developmental disabilities currently estimates as of April 2013 that there are over 12,000 individuals throughout New York state which are seeking residential placements. Two-thirds of these individuals are either currently seeking or would like residential supports within the next two years, while the rest believe they need supports and services delivered on a 24/7 basis. The last year NYS-CARES was fully funded was SFY 2007-08. Since that time, in the name of fiscal austerity, new residential development has been delayed or severely limited. The office for people with developmental disabilities has a vision of a continuum of housing opportunities to ensure that there is a range of residential options available based upon individual needs and abilities; but in order to attain that vision we must provide the funding necessary to accomplish their vision and goals. People with developmental disabilities need a quality, affordable, accessible place to live with all of the services and supports they may need to function within the community. There is a very real need for additional residential development, specifically for those who are medically frail and behaviorally challenged, but most especially those who continue to be on waiting lists for residential services. This population of people is one of the most vulnerable in our state and we have a duty to be sure they have quality housing and care. The appropriation of fifty million dollars will ensure that there is funding made available to the office for people with developmental disabilities, so that they may start placing some of the 12,000 New Yorkers into homes.

Prior legislative history

New Bill.

Fiscal implications

Fifty million dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.