The iBudget Waiver – Florida’s only public health insurance program for individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities – provides essential and critical services to nearly 35,000 Floridians. However, proposed changes and potential cuts to the iBudget Waiver have caused major concern among Florida’s most vulnerable citizens and their advocates.
Due to such threats and in an effort to help thousands receive the care and support needed, the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC) has announced the launch of a statewide public advocacy campaign, Save the iBudget Waiver.
With Save the iBudget Waiver, FDDC has created ways that Florida’s most vulnerable citizens can educate the Florida Legislature on why preserving this program means preserving thousands of lives as nearly 70 percent of recipients live and work in their own homes and communities. Such services are not covered by a regular insurance plan.
“Florida is 49th in the nation in Medicaid spending for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said FDDC Executive Director Valerie Breen. “The iBudget Waiver is the only program in Florida that ensures individuals they will receive care and prevents them from living in an institution. It is truly critical for the survival of thousands of Floridians and we must preserve it.”
The campaign urges individuals with disabilities, their family members and all Floridians to become informed about the iBudget Waiver and its potential changes as well as share campaign information and attend local and legislative committee meetings to testify on what would happen if services are not funded.
Information about Save the iBudget Waiver can be found at ibudgetwaiver.com.
Watch our campaign video by clicking here or the video below.
The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC) leads the Save the iBudget Campaign to advocate for changes that do not interfere with an individual’s inclusion in the community or force individuals into more costly and restrictive settings. The mission of the FDDC is to advocate for and promote meaningful participation in all aspects of life for Floridians with developmental disabilities. Learn more at fddc.org.
