Currently, Governor Brian Kemp has recommended 100 new waiver slots be funded in this year's state budget. He has also recommended $79 Million toward the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities(DBHDD) Rate Study to support a salary rate increase for Direct Support Professionals(DSPs). There will be two opportunities for public comment and we ask that all advocates who are interested and available attend one of these meetings and speak on the need for more waivers and better wages for DSPs. GCDD is advocating for 2,400 new waiver slots and keeping the $79 Million dollars in DBHD budget.
On Monday, February 12th, you have an opportunity to speak to key legislators about the need for more NOW/COMP waivers and higher wages for DSPs. This will take place at the House Appropriations Human Resources Subcommittee meeting. This meeting will be held at 3:00 PM in room 506 of the Coverdell Legislative Office building. Please arrive before 3:00 PM and be sure to put your name on the sign-up sheet.
On Tuesday, February 13th, you will have a second opportunity to provide public comment on this same issue at the second day of the House Appropriations Human Resources Subcommittee meeting. That meeting will be held at 2:00 PM in room 506 of the Coverdell Legislative Office building. Please arrive before 2:00 PM and be sure to put your name on the sign-up sheet.
Please contact Charlie Miller, GCDD’s Legislative Advocacy Director, at charles.miller@gcdd.ga.gov or (404) 617-9957 if you have any questions about this advocacy opportunity.
Thank you for your advocacy work!
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