Update: Maryland’s legislative session adjourned on Monday, April 8, 2024. We’re happy to share the good news that the final state budget included a 3 percent increase for DDA service providers and $1 million for the DDA Rental Subsidy. Given the challenging budget forecast this year, we celebrate the state’s investment in disability services. Thank you for your passionate advocacy!
Join Jubilee in raising your voice today to advocate for people with disabilities. Maryland’s state legislature is in session now to make budget decisions that impact disability services. For the first time in a decade, there is no mandated increase to the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) budget. Without an increase, support staff will not receive raises that keep up with inflation, making it harder to maintain and increase a dedicated workforce. The state is also facing a tough fiscal climate, so it is key for legislators to hear why disability services should be prioritized for increased funding.
We encourage you to call and send letters to your state representatives telling them how your loved one lives independently with support from Jubilee! Ask them to increase DDA’s budget by 3 percent. You can find out who your legislator is using this guide, along with their contact information.
Jubilee’s three legislative priorities for the 2024 session are:
- Increase DDA’s budget
- Prioritize people with disabilities in affordable and accessible housing efforts.
- Fund language access plans for statewide agencies like DDA so that more Marylanders can better access disability services.
We are grateful that Governor Wes Moore is prioritizing affordable housing, and Jubilee is sharing the dire need for more housing to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Through Jubilee’s Breaking Barriers program, we are educating lawmakers about ensuring disability services are accessible for people with a first language other than English.
Please fill out the form to join the Jubilee Public Policy Committee and get more involved in advocacy at Jubilee. (Committee membership is open to Jubilee clients, their families, and staff).