Balancing a state budget is no easy task and it can be particularly challenging in a state like New Jersey that boasts a diverse population of residents, a wide-spectrum of industries, and a varied geographic makeup. With this in mind, we thank Governor Christie and members of the legislature for balancing a state budget for fiscal year 2016 that includes new money to assist and support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families living in communities across New Jersey.
Funding in the recently signed budget will help individuals aging out of their educational entitlements and into adulthood, those facing unexpected emergencies, and others waiting for critical services. In addition, we thank the legislature for adding and the governor for maintaining, additional money to address the waiting list and to fund Family Support Services. Proactively addressing the growing waiting list will cut down on emergencies and increasing money for family support services will provide parents with respite; a critical break for 24-hour caregivers supporting a loved one with I/DD in the home.
We thank the governor and the legislature as the fiscal year 2016 funding increases will directly impact people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families who are most in need of help.
Thomas Baffuto
Executive Director, Arc of New Jersey, North Brunswick
