Across New Jersey, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are facing a devastating crisis. The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) is systematically denying and restricting access to specialized, inclusive community programs funded under "Goods and Services". We must come together to demand that our families and individuals do not lose the essential programs they rely on for their physical health, emotional well-being, and social integration.

The Urgent Problem

Arbitrary Denials: The DDD is denying funding for specialized goods and services vendors by claiming they must primarily serve the general public rather than focus on individuals with disabilities. This forces individuals into one-size-fits-all commercial settings that lack the inclusive instruction, modifications, and sensory accommodations required for safe and meaningful participation.

Unclear Rate Standards: Vendors are being denied under the premise that their rates are not "reasonable and customary," yet DDD has failed to provide clear benchmarks for specialized inclusive programs. Comparing specific, high-support programs to general public services is fundamentally inequitable because it ignores the unique structural and safety requirements of inclusive care

Violation of Federal Rights: Denying access to these tailored programs directly contradicts federal Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) requirements, which demand that individuals have the autonomy to choose inclusive environments tailored to their specific support needs and preferences.

The Devastating Impact on Our Families 

When access to these essential services are cut off, the impact extends far beyond missing a fitness class. Families and caregivers are witnessing firsthand the heartbreaking consequences of these administrative denials:

Severe Regression: Years of hard-won physical, emotional, and social progress are being undone. Individuals who have built strength and confidence are now at risk of losing their mobility, independence, and overall health.

Social Isolation: For many adults with disabilities, these inclusive programs are their primary community. Stripping away these services removes their friends, their trusted mentors, and their sense of belonging, which leads to increased anxiety and depression.

Disrupted Routines: Individuals who thrive on consistency are having their established routines abruptly shattered without a reasonable transition period or viable, safe alternatives.

We call on New Jersey DDD to:

1. Provide Clear Funding Guidelines: Establish transparent and consistent standards for reasonable and customary rates that recognize the staffing, training, and accommodations required for specialized inclusive programs.

2. Protect Individual Choice: Allow individuals to access community programs that meet their unique needs, even when those programs primarily serve individuals with disabilities.

3. Respect Individual Budget Autonomy: Honor the purpose of self-directed Goods and Services funding by respecting individuals' choices of approved services, providers, and activities.

4. Provide Fair Transitions: Ensure families receive clear communication, reasonable notice, individualized consideration, and viable alternatives before established services are disrupted.

Why Your Signature Matters

Behind every funding decision is a real person. Someone who has worked hard to become stronger, made friends, gained confidence, or found a place where they truly belong.

We understand that DDD must ensure public funds are used responsibly. We are not asking for a lack of oversight. We are asking for fair standards, transparency, and decisions that put the needs of individuals first.

Inclusion should mean creating more opportunities, not taking existing opportunities away.

Please sign and share this petition to help protect access to specialized inclusive community programs throughout New Jersey.

Our individuals deserve more than simply being included. They deserve the opportunity to belong, grow, and thrive.