Arizona House passes bill funding disability program
PHOENIX (AZFamily) — The Arizona House of Representatives on Wednesday night passed a measure that would pay for the state’s disability services program.
House Bill 2945 was approved with a 48-11 vote. All of those who voted against it were Republicans. The bill now moves to the Senate.
The program, called the Division of Developmental Disabilities, helps nearly 60,000 Arizonans each year but could run out of money at the end of the month if nothing is done.
Despite some Republicans voting against it, GOP leadership still praised the passage. “The House has overwhelmingly approved a responsible and effective plan to fully fund Arizona’s Developmental Disabilities program and ensure services continue for the families of 60,000 vulnerable adults and minors who rely on this vital safety net. This legislation also includes responsible, commonsense guardrails to provide greater transparency and prevent future funding shortfalls,” said Arizona House Speaker Steve Montenegro, a Republican from Goodyear, in an emailed statement.
Gov. Katie Hobbs, who threatened to veto bills that came to her desk until DDD was funded, said the passage was an “important first step” toward getting the services the crucial money. “I am grateful to see House members on both sides of the aisle come together to advance common sense proposals. This deal ensures critical services for disabled Arizonans will continue, delivers reasonable guardrails for the Parents as Paid Caregivers program, and protects funding to respond to Arizonans’ housing needs. It’s time for the Senate to get this negotiated bill on my desk to protect services for these families,” Hobbs said in a written statement.
The measure will free up about $122 million to put an end to DDD’s budget shortfall. The Senate is expected to pass the measure.
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