Let's value those who serve the disabled; Guest column
CapitalFeb 22, 2018
As a service provider who supports people with intellectual and development disabilities,
We've been fortunate to maintain passionate professionals who have shown their dedication to The Arc, despite their low wages.
Keawan Pittman, 31, works multiple shifts to support his wife and three children. On any given day, Pittman will work from
These service providers, or DSPs, are the backbone for people with disabilities. They assist with personal care and provide transportation and individualized support. They are personal coaches and advocates and carry the burden of worry for those they serve, in the same way that others worry about their own families.
We at The Arc know that these skilled professionals should be honored with higher wages. Yet, due to state budget reimbursement limitations, we aren't able to do more. In spite of their passion for caring for people with disabilities, many are earning just above minimum wage and are struggling with the need for financial security.
As part of the Minimum Wage Act of 2014, the
The governor's budget, however, is falling short of the funding mandate. State reimbursements for direct service wages are the lowest they have ever been in relation to the minimum wage.
Every year for the last three years, The Arc has testified before policymakers, advocating for the governor to maintain the reimbursement increase of 3.5 percent. This year we are strongly advocating for the restoration of the 3.5 percent funding mandate.
Lower reimbursement rates also impact the process of attracting and retaining new skilled workers. Our DSPs are working double-time, and we're concerned about burnout. Potential candidates are attracted to opportunities with fast-food chains or in retail. These jobs pay more than The Arc can offer, aren't as strenuous and do not have the extensive requirements.
Despite the falling reimbursement rates, we've worked hard to maintain a significant spread between the wages we pay and the minimum wage. But the continued erosion of reimbursement rates will make it impossible for us to keep our DSPs from becoming a minimum-wage workforce.
Today, The Arc is participating in Development Disabilities Day at the legislature, which raises awareness to advance the movement for people with intellectual and development disabilities.
We need to let policymakers understand the value DSPs provide. Imagine the life of persons with disabilities who do not receive the care they need. The need for DSPs will never cease, so we must be able to provide a decent wage to attract and maintain these passionate and skilled workers.
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