On June 30th, 2025, Governor Murphy signed the $58.8 billion Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) State Budget (S2026) into law. The enacted budget is an increase from the $58.1 billion proposed budget that was previously reported here. Some of the highlights include:
Department of Human Services
- Developmental Disabilities Waiting List: $1.4 million added to the Community Care Program (CCP) to fund services for 318 people who are currently on the waiting list.
- Direct Support Professionals (DSP): $18 million more allocated to DSP wages to help further strengthen the workforce.
- WorkAbility Program Expansion: $73 million designated to continue supporting this program, which offers people with disabilities who work and earn income to continue their Medicaid benefits with no income or asset limit.
Department of Health
- Cooper University Health Care: $250,000 will go towards the System of Care Model program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Inspira Health Systems: $1 million will be appropriated for the expansion of the Autism Diagnostic Centers.
Department of Education
- Special Education Aid: Adjustments will be made to funding formulas, ensuring aid is based on actual special education enrollment rather than statewide average.
- Preschool Education Aid: $1.3 billion will be allocated for preschool education aid.
Department of State
- Loan Redemption: $3.8 million will be used to fund the Behavioral Healthcare Provider Loan Redemption Program.