As budget discussions commence, New York lawmakers are under pressure to secure vital funding for the state’s intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) care system. Wini Schiff, the CEO of the Inter Agency Council and a board member of New York Disability Advocates (NYDA), emphasizes that this year’s state budget will be crucial for thousands of families relying on these essential services.
Rising Demand and Costs Threaten Stability
New York City boasts one of the largest I/DD service systems in the United States, with nonprofit providers offering a variety of supports, including residential care, day programs, and employment assistance. For many families, these services are not optional; they are necessary for daily living.
Yet, the system is increasingly strained. Demand for services has surged, with the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities reporting an increase of over 10,000 individuals in the I/DD population over the past five years. Concurrently, operational costs have escalated. Inflation in New York City has risen by 2.9% within the last year, surpassing the national average. Nonprofit providers are facing higher expenses for essentials such as food, transportation, utilities, and medical supplies.
Despite a reported wage increase of more than 8% for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), reimbursement rates have not adjusted accordingly, forcing providers to absorb the financial gap. As staffing shortages continue and competition for workers intensifies, this situation is unsustainable.
Urgent Action Needed to Prevent Service Disruptions
Without additional support, many providers may have to make difficult choices, including cutting programs or leaving shifts unfilled. The repercussions of these decisions can be immediate and severe: disruptions in care, loss of stability for families, and diminished independence for individuals with I/DD.
“When staffing collapses, care is disrupted. When programs close, families lose stability,” said Schiff, highlighting the critical nature of consistent care.
To address these challenges, advocates are urging Albany to include a 2.7% Targeted Inflationary Increase (TII) in the state budget. This adjustment would help providers manage rising costs and safeguard access to necessary services.
Moreover, the ongoing housing crisis in New York exacerbates the workforce challenges within the I/DD system. A recent study conducted by NYDA and Miami University of Ohio reveals that nearly half of DSPs face housing insecurity, making it increasingly difficult for these essential workers to afford living in the city where their services are critically needed. Median rent prices in New York City have escalated by 5.6% over the past year, with expectations for continued increases.
Many DSPs find it nearly impossible to live near the communities they serve, contributing to burnout and high turnover rates. Stability in care is paramount in the I/DD system, where individuals depend on established routines and trusting relationships.
To bolster workforce retention, advocates propose establishing a CareForce Affordable Housing Lottery Preference (S.8676) to prioritize DSPs and other essential care workers for affordable housing near their workplaces. This initiative could significantly enhance workforce stability and improve continuity of care for families in need.
As negotiations continue, it is vital for lawmakers to recognize that services are only as effective as the workforce behind them. The future of New York’s I/DD system hangs in the balance, and the upcoming budget presents an opportunity for Albany to reinforce this critical foundation. The pressing question remains: will lawmakers act decisively to secure the necessary funding and support in time?
