The Senate Appropriations - Human Resources Division meeting held on March 14, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding North Dakota's child find program, Right Track, and the developmental disability (DD) services available to residents. The meeting highlighted the importance of early intervention services for infants and toddlers, emphasizing the program's role in providing free developmental screenings and follow-up services to families across the state.

The committee reviewed funding sources for these services, noting that Medicaid waivers and federal contributions from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act play significant roles in supporting early intervention programs. The discussion included a case study of an 18-year-old named Morgan, who has been receiving DD services since the age of seven. Morgan's situation illustrated the necessity of in-home support and respite care, which allow individuals with disabilities to remain in their communities rather than requiring institutional care.

The meeting also addressed the financial eligibility criteria for accessing these services, clarifying that parental income is not considered for children utilizing waiver services. This ensures that families can receive necessary support without financial barriers. The committee noted that services are funded through a combination of federal and state funds, with the federal government providing matching contributions.

Another case presented was that of Nora, a 70-year-old woman with multiple disabilities who transitioned from independent living to an intermediate care facility due to declining health. This case underscored the varying costs associated with different levels of care, highlighting how increased support needs can lead to higher service costs.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the importance of self-directed services, which empower families to manage their care more flexibly. This approach allows for personalized care plans, including hiring staff and selecting appropriate assistive technologies.

Overall, the meeting provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of developmental disability services in North Dakota, emphasizing the need for continued support and funding to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive the care they need throughout their lives. The committee plans to follow up on these discussions in future meetings, focusing on enhancing service delivery and addressing funding challenges.