Children with intellectual and disabilities are served by the public school system through their 22nd birthdays. As they come into the adult system in the Department of Mental Retardation a number of services are needed to help them transition into productive citizens with a good quality of life. These services include job training, day services pf some sort and transportation. Turning 22 dollars although increasing have not kept pace with the number of people turning 22 each year in the State. The increase in the number of children with autism specter disorder and the number of children who have survived with medically complex needs probably are the main reasons for this increase. In the Governor’s budget for FY 2009 the money for this transition was decreased from $7.7 Million to $6.1 Million compared to last year’s budget. The projection is $10.6 Million is needed and $21.6 Million in annualization. This will allow $3 Million in employment to be set aside for the majority of those turning 22 who remain living with families.

The Impact
Massachusetts will have an estimated 610 young people turning 22 in FY 2009. Unless this line item is increased more than 60% of the young people will have no where to go and nothing to do. These students beginning with early intervention , then through the school system have made strides in learning. Many have learned how to function well in the community. The better school programs have taught them workplace, community safety and independence skills. If this line item is not adequately funded many will be required to stay at home waiting for services. Without needed services people are lose the skills and knowledge they have acquired over all of the years of support. If young people are at home many parents may need to leave their jobs to care for their children resulting in not only lost wages to families but also lost tax revenue for the State. This is a not desirable scenario during these tight fiscal times.

Action Requested
Fund Line Item 5920-5000 at $10.6 million for individuals turning 22 at DMR with annualization.