Arizona DDD Crisis Deepens as Funding Bill Debated

Arizona's Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) faces a $122 million funding shortfall that threatens essential services for nearly 60,000 residents with disabilities. Governor Katie Hobbs has pledged to veto all bills until a bipartisan funding solution is passed, effectively halting legislative activity. House Bill 2945, which would provide emergency funding and set a cap of 40 hours per week for paid caregivers, has passed the House but is under continued debate, particularly regarding parental caregiver compensation. The situation has led to heightened tensions between parties, with both sides accusing each other of political gamesmanship. Similar funding crises are occurring in Florida, where thousands of children with developmental disabilities remain on waitlists due to budget delays. The crisis underscores the urgent need for legislative consensus to safeguard support for vulnerable populations.