When the state moved CDPAP to a single, statewide fiscal intermediary, they wanted to make sure that the supportive wrap-around services such as those offered by independent living centers (ILCs) and some other fiscal intermediaries stayed in place. They recognized that, for many, the fiscal intermediary was more than just a payroll company, and they took steps to protect that.

Unfortunately, the language protecting these services was drafted quickly, and important parts that defined the role that these organizations, which were called facilitators, were supposed to play were left out. PPL has used this to their advantage, and most consumers do not have access to services like peer supports, local counselors who can work with them, and someone to provide assistance with paperwork, legal requirements, and more. Partially as a result of this, more than 90,000 consumers have dropped out of the CDPAP program.

We are calling on legislators to address this problem and clarify the law to make sure that the role of facilitators is clear - and the consumers receive the support they need and want.