Action | Amendments to establish criteria and annual funding priorities through the Annual Funding Program Guidelines and ensure public input. |
Stage | Proposed |
Comment Period | Ended on 4/26/2024 |
I do not think that the regulations should require that the funds only be used for the specific things that are requested in the application. The process is complicated and, to my knowledge, there is no process to make changes to the application request throughout the year. Families are asked to predict needs for the future year which may or may not materialize. That does not mean that they do not need the funds to help the individuals with DD. For example, the family may request funds to enable the individual with DD to attend a specific recreational program in the Spring or Summer, but that program may not be available, or there may be other challenges that come up making attendance impossible. Other more important and critical needs may emerge which will better support the individual's ability to remain in the home. The program should allow for flexibility. As long as the funds are spent for items or on needs that are among those allow under the program, there should be no problem and no need for cumbersome paperwork to amend an application. There should be no need to justify a change which benefits the individual and the family when funds are spent on items or services allowed under the program.