Maryland families urge restoration of DDA funding to protect disability support services

During a recent session of the Maryland General Assembly's Appropriations Committee, advocates for individuals with disabilities voiced urgent concerns over proposed budget cuts to the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). The discussions highlighted the potential impact of these cuts on essential support services that many families rely on for their loved ones.

One of the most pressing issues raised was the proposed elimination of the geographic rate differential, which could result in a staggering $6.8 million reduction in funding for services in Prince George's County. Rob Malone, a representative from the DDA, emphasized that such cuts would lead to staff reductions and increased turnover, which could have devastating effects on individuals with special needs. "Every time there's turnover in the lives of people with special needs, it is very devastating," he stated, urging the committee to reconsider the budget modifications.

Vivian Smalls, a direct support professional and mother of a daughter with epilepsy, shared her personal story, illustrating the critical role that funding plays in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals with disabilities. She described how dedicated staff members provide essential support during her daughter's seizures, allowing her family to maintain a sense of security. "Crystal deserves to enjoy life with security and dignity," Smalls said, emphasizing the importance of stable staffing for her daughter's quality of life.

Other parents echoed similar sentiments, expressing fears that cuts to the DDA budget would undermine the progress their children have made. Donna Njako, whose son Forbes is autistic and nonverbal, highlighted how recent policy changes have threatened the self-direction program that empowers families to make decisions about their loved ones' care. "The actions of DDA have made the self-directed program unsustainable," she warned, calling for legislative action to protect vulnerable residents.

Lisa Shames, a parent of an adult daughter with severe disabilities, recounted a critical incident where timely intervention by direct support staff saved her daughter's life. She stressed that cuts to funding would jeopardize the stability of care that individuals like her daughter depend on. "If you cut the regional differential, it would be a shock to the DDA system," Shames cautioned.

The session concluded with a strong call to action from parents and advocates, urging the committee to protect funding for the DDA and ensure that individuals with disabilities continue to receive the support they need to thrive in their communities. As the Maryland General Assembly deliberates on the budget, the voices of these families serve as a poignant reminder of the real-life implications of legislative decisions on the most vulnerable members of society.