The North Dakota Senate Appropriations Committee convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss critical budgetary matters concerning the Human Resources Division, particularly focusing on developmental disabilities (DD) services. The meeting highlighted significant changes and proposals that could impact funding and service delivery for individuals with disabilities.

One of the key topics was the successful transition of eight temporary staff members to full-time positions within the DD program, made possible by a block grant. This change allows the staff to receive benefits that were previously unavailable, enhancing support for individuals with developmental disabilities. The committee also noted a slight increase in rental costs, reflecting broader economic trends.

The budget discussion revealed that a substantial 95.2% of the funding is allocated to private providers, with only 3.2% dedicated to direct services and a mere 1.5% for administrative costs. This distribution underscores the reliance on external providers for service delivery in the DD sector.

Two significant legislative proposals were also on the agenda. Senate Bill 2305, which aims to establish a family paid caregiver pilot program, is projected to require $7.3 million from the general fund. Additionally, Senate Bill 2029 seeks to transfer guardianship establishment funds from the Department of Human Services to the Supreme Court, with an estimated cost of $6.1 million.

The committee members engaged in discussions about the differences between the DD waiver and the aged and disabled waiver, emphasizing the need for a more seamless transition for individuals moving between these services. The proposed cross-disability waiver for children aims to simplify access to necessary services, although the timeline for implementing similar changes for adults remains uncertain due to the complexity of Medicaid regulations.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore these issues, with officials expressing readiness to return for additional discussions as needed. The outcomes of these legislative proposals and budget allocations will be crucial in shaping the future of services for individuals with disabilities in North Dakota.