The Senate Appropriations Committee meeting on March 20, 2025, focused on the critical services provided by the statewide crisis and stabilization team for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The team aims to support these individuals during destabilizing crises in their home environments, collaborating closely with families, service providers, and community partners.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that the crisis and stabilization coordinators do not require specific licensing credentials. Their roles involve providing observation and recommendations, which raises questions about Medicaid billing for their interventions. The committee discussed the challenges in securing funding for these essential services, with members expressing a commitment to explore various funding resources to enhance transition supports and crisis management statewide.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the role of licensed applied behavior analysts, who offer professional services to both adults and children across North Dakota. This credentialed group plays a vital role in supporting families and private providers in addressing behavioral needs.

The discussions underscored the importance of these services in helping individuals remain integrated within their communities, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve funding and support mechanisms for crisis intervention and stabilization. The committee plans to continue exploring solutions to enhance these critical services in the future.