Senator Sabina Flores Perez on Tuesday introduced a new bill aimed at improving access to care services for individuals with disabilities.

Bill No. 316 -37 proposes an appropriation of $50,000 from excess Fiscal Year 2024

General Fund collections to the Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities to enhance the availability and quality of care for individuals with severe disabilities, many of whom face long wait times for essential services.

Some individuals are forced to wait a total of 413 days, on average, for residential care and about 329 days for personal care assistance. 

This bill would greatly reduce these wait times by expediting payments to a greater number of private care providers to increase the availability of care services for those in need.

“For individuals with severe disabilities, timely and consistent care is crucial for maintaining a good quality of life. This funding will help ensure that they receive the care and assistance necessary to live more comfortably and independently,” said Sen. Perez.