The following are the key issues on which the Developmental Disabilities Advocacy Network is currently focusing our efforts.
Medicaid: It is widely felt by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families that Medicaid is by far the MOST important of all programs that fund and regulate the services on which their lives depend. Recent proposals by some in Washington, which seek to significantly cut Medicaid funding or to impose block grants or other Medicaid caps would be disastrous for individuals with disabilities and their families. Read More
Transportation: Public transportation in and around New Jersey is generally limited, but especially for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The same can be said for private transportation services such as Uber or Lyft. One of the most broadly used public transportation services for NJ residents with disabilities, Access Link, must be expanded. Read More
Health, safety, and Quality Assurance: Within the current DDD system, there are significant gaps in quality and safety for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) across in-home care and community-based service options. A common issue that many families face is the fact that information regarding the care and safety of their loved ones with I/DD is not transparent and readily available. Read More
Employment: The NJ Division of Rehabilitative Services (DVRS) does not adequately support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The Division places “competitive employment” as a priority, focusing services toward those with fewer support needs. This leaves behind those with more significant support needs, for whom competitive employment may not be as realistic a goal. Read More
System Funding: Separate from looming potential cuts or caps to the Medicaid program, New Jersey’s service delivery system for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) is already severely under-funded. Read More
Communication: Ultimately, many of the challenges individuals and families experienced in obtaining support and services have their root in an inadequate line of communication between state agencies, policymakers, and individual and family advocates. Well before the state decides to implement new policies, there must be regular, in-depth, and systematic communication with the individuals and families who will be affected by the system of policy changes in question. Read More
Person-centered & Self-directed service: It has become apparent to families that the state of New Jersey does not share their view of what constitutes “person-centered planning”. While the state seems to view this concept as a simple matter of meeting certain criteria on a checklist, individuals and families desire thoughtful planning that actually helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to achieve their life goals. For true person-centered services to be achieved is it vital that the state is on the same page as advocates. Read More
Housing: Overall, New Jersey’s system for housing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in community-based settings is underfunded, underdeveloped, and lacking in options. The system is over-reliant on Section 8 housing vouchers and lacks options in various settings (rural, suburban, urban). Read More
