The JBC meeting today was AMAZING! HCPF had a lot of excuses to explain the gross underfunding of services for children with disabilities. Our legislators didn't buy it. They are pushing for an emergency fix for this problem. Currently, providers could move just across the border and be able to hire and maintain staff much better. They wouldn't have a long waitlist, and they could provide highly trained staff to provide those services. That isn't an option here. A lot of it has to do with funding, some of it has to do with the types of services allowed. Regardless, we are making some progress, and hopefully, change is right around the corner.
At this point, the legislator is talking about changing some laws. The most immediate action could be if Gov. Polis decided to request an emergency supplemental to prevent more closures until the law can make adjustments.
You can help by reaching out to the Gov. and sharing your story.