8,000 and Counting…..

As of May, 2011, there are almost 8,000 people with developmental disabilities in Louisiana waiting up to eight years to get the waiver services they need NOW. 

The New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) program provides support many individuals need to live in their own homes and communities.  LaCAN was successful in advocating for 1,500 NOW slots in 2007 and an additional 2,025 NOW slots in 2008.  The legislature appropriated funding for these slots with the expectation that they would be filled in a timely manner.  However, in the Spring of 2009, it was discovered that due to the Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities’ (OCDD) slow pace in filling slots none of the 2,025 NOW slots had been used.

OCDD reported that the delay was due to implementation of the new and improved planning process that would bring the cost of the NOW down.  Further delays occurred when OCDD was directed by DHH to slow down the waiver offers being made due to expected budget shortfalls.

During the 2010 legislative session funding for an additional 150 NOW slots was appropriated.  $4.2 million was also deposited into the Community and Family Support fund.  A portion of these funds is being used to speed up the processing of waiver slots.

LaCAN advocacy efforts have been effective.  In early 2011, OCDD indicated it would increase the rate of offers being made in order to fill all available slots by June 30, 2011.