HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – Intellectual disabilities and autism advocates and providers are asking for increased investments in their programs, resources, and services.

“Don’t ruin my life, give us the money,” said self-advocate Tristan Rovito.

“I want to have a life like everyone else, we need funding now,” said self-advocate Rachel Brewer.

Governor Josh Shapiro calls for $483 million in state and federal funds to be invested in the intellectual disability and autism system.

“These investments are not just financial, they represent a commitment to the values of inclusion, dignity and respect for all individuals,” said Republican Representative Doyle Heffley.

“Now is the time for us to step up to the challenge of addressing the needs of the folks that have been asking for our assistance for years, for years,” said Democratic Representative Stephen Kinsey.

This would also enable providers to recruit and retain workers by paying them more than the average of $16 an hour.

One provider saying he works 65 to 70 hours a week due to staffing shortages.

“By this budget passing, I would be able to work closer to a 40-hour work week and have more time to spend with family and loved ones,” said direct support professional Nick Smith.

Shapiros proposal also includes $78 million for the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services’ Officer OF Developmental Programs to increase Medicaid waiver slots to help eliminate waitlists for services, including community participation, job support, and housing.

“These might be people who could face homelessness if we do not provide funding for the emergency waiting list,” said The Arc of Pennsylvania Executive Director.

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“What do you do when you have someone with emergency needs and is told, we know you need services today, we just don’t have the money for it and have to be put on a waitlist,” said Rehabilitation & Community Providers Association CEO and president Richard Edley.

To put the waitlist into perspective, more than 13,000 people are waiting for services. Even if this is approved in the budget, officials say it will take years to eliminate the waitlist.

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