Golden State Today

The state of California has introduced a new Master Plan for Developmental Services aimed at enhancing support systems for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Governor Gavin Newsom publicly announced the Plan, titled "A Community-Driven Vision," which intends to make systemic improvements, reducing obstacles to service access and encompassing inputs from a wide array of community members.

Governor Newsom emphasized the administration's focus on "transparency, accountability, and equity in supports" that significantly impact the lives of people with disabilities. He expressed pride in receiving the Plan developed by those most affected by these services.

The Plan's assembly followed the appointment of a Committee by the California Health and Human Services Agency Secretary in early 2024. This panel consisted of diverse workgroups made up of individuals with disabilities, their families, advocates, service providers, and representatives from California's 21 regional centers. Public input was gathered from over 45 listening sessions involving varied community groups and experts across the state.

Key recommendations of the Plan include standardizing service delivery to eliminate disparities, supporting individuals in making their own life choices, streamlining service access, investing in the workforce, and ensuring accountability and transparency within service systems. There is also a call for using data to guide future improvements in the developmental services sector.

CalHHS Secretary Kim Johnson acknowledged the Plan as a collaborative effort that aims to make California inclusive, expressing gratitude to those who contributed to the Plan's development. Johnson believes the recommendations will significantly shape the future of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the state.

Governor Newsom’s administration has been notable for significant investments in California’s community-based service systems, which benefit over 500,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The state uniquely offers a lifetime entitlement to these services, supported by an annual budget exceeding $15 billion.

California plans to maintain focus group discussions and public sessions on various relevant topics like employment, rate reform, and early intervention. The Plan will help guide these discussions, ensuring continual evaluation and necessary policy changes. Legislation requiring annual reports to the Legislature for the next decade was established in 2024, with bi-annual committee meetings planned to review and report on the Plan's progress.