Every year, thousands of Virginians living with brain injuries rely on state-contracted providers for case management, housing support, employment assistance, and clinical services. These programs help individuals live independently, return to work, and remain active in their communities.
We are calling on lawmakers to include two critical investments in the state budget - both are urgently needed:
$1.5 Million Per Year for Workforce Retention - Senator Schuyler VanValkenburg: Item 318 #1s
Brain injury providers across Virginia are facing a staffing crisis.
- Starting salaries are 10–20% lower than similar positions in other disability service systems.
- Providers have received workforce increases in only 3 of the last 20 years.
- Turnover rates exceed 30% this year.
- Rising health insurance and operating costs continue to strain agencies.
When providers cannot hire or retain qualified staff, services are delayed or unavailable — and Virginians living with brain injury suffer the consequences. This funding will help stabilize the workforce, reduce turnover, and protect access to essential services.
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$1.0 Million Per Year to Strengthen Safety Net Services - Delegate David Reid: Item 318 #2h
Demand for brain injury services continues to grow — but the system is stretched thin.
- In some rural regions, one case manager covers up to five counties.
- In Hampton Roads — Virginia’s second most populated region — only two full-time case managers serve the entire area.
- Programs have waiting lists.
- Supportive housing options are severely limited.
This investment will:
- Add case managers and licensed clinical professionals
- Expand employment and rehabilitation services
- Increase supportive housing capacity by 155%
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Why This Matters
Last year, bipartisan majorities in the General Assembly approved funding for these priorities. The funds were later vetoed with a recommendation to reconsider them in the new budget.
Now lawmakers are deciding the future of these services.
Without action:
- Workforce turnover will continue to rise
- Waiting lists will grow
- Critical services may be reduced
- Vulnerable Virginians will lose support
With action:
- Providers can retain skilled staff
- Services can expand statewide
- Individuals with brain injuries can live safely and independently
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Take Action Today
Your voice makes a difference! Together, we can protect and strengthen Virginia’s brain injury service system.