Governor Mikie Sherrill signed New Jersey’s fiscal year 2027 budget (A5327), a $60.7 billion spending plan that continues investments in services and supports for individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The budget extends funding for community services, workforce development, crisis response, and employment support.
“With Medicaid cuts looming large and the autism community’s many and urgent needs, we are deeply grateful for Governor Sherrill’s commitment to individuals with autism and their families. Sustaining and, where possible, expanding these critical investments directly improves the lives of the 242,000 New Jerseyans with autism,” said Executive Director Suzanne Buchanan.
We have highlighted departmental funding of particular importance to the community, which include:
Department of Human Services
- Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD): The budget includes more than $2.06 billion in total DDD community program funding, representing an additional $154 million for community-based services and support over FY2026.
- Direct Support Professional Workforce: The budget includes $53.1 million to support previously approved Direct Support Professional (DSP) wage increases.
- START Regional Response Teams: The budget continues $3.2 million for START Regional Response Teams, which provide crisis prevention and stabilization services for individuals with I/DD and co-occurring behavioral health needs, including those with severe challenging behavior.
Department of Children and Families
- Children’s System of Care (CSOC): The budget continues funding for CSOC, including $93.5 million for Intensive In-Home Behavioral Assistance and $32.67 million for Mobile Response and Stabilization Services, along with care management, family support, and out-of-home treatment.
Department of State
- Behavioral Healthcare Provider Loan Redemption Program: The budget includes $3.5 million to help recruit and retain behavioral health professionals through student loan repayment.
Department of Labor and Workforce Development
- Employment Supports: The budget includes a total of $50.2 million for Vocational Rehabilitation Services and continues funding for Extended Employment and Supported Employment services.