AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 29 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE DIVISION OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES SERVICES.

Disability services, oversight, and higher provider rates

Delaware's Division of Developmental Disabilities Services must help people with developmental disabilities and their families make informed choices and participate in their communities. Required services include case management, family support, advocacy, respite care, housing options, nursing and behavioral advice, day services, and supported employment. The division must also provide residential services in intermediate care facilities. Its required annual report must cover people served, service providers, system growth, service use, and gaps or challenges. Reports go to the Secretary, Governor, General Assembly, and the Director and Librarian of the Division of Legislative Services. The division must investigate abuse, neglect, mistreatment, and financial exploitation; it can coordinate with law enforcement and issue implementing rules. The law sets a funding-dependent phase-in of higher adult disability service rates to 100% of benchmark levels. Benchmarks use the market study submitted January 17, 2014, updated with fiscal year 2018 service-use data and updated component percentages. The law specifies no direct household payment or guaranteed change in an individual's services.