Livingston Presses Hobbs for Clarity Amid Disability Program Financial Crisis

By Daniel Stefanski |

A spokesperson for the Arizona Republican party is raising concerns about the financial stability of the state’s Developmental Disabilities (DDD) program. State Representative David Livingston has reached out to Governor Katie Hobbs in regards to what he perceives as a looming crisis.

In a letter sent on Wednesday, Livingston, who chairs the House Appropriations Committee, criticized the governor’s handling of the program’s finances. “This administration has made major financial commitments without consulting the Legislature,” he asserted, urging the governor to clarify her administration’s decisions. He expressed concern for families who rely on DDD services, stating, “Governor Hobbs must explain why her agencies are making decisions without oversight and what her plan is if this program collapses.”

Livingston highlighted a dramatic increase in the program’s costs, which reportedly have doubled from $750 million to $1.5 billion under Governor Hobbs. He emphasized that the legislative body was unprepared for these figures, stating, “We need immediate answers on how the administration plans to rein in spending before Arizona families are left with nothing.”

In his letter, the representative voiced alarm over new budget insights, noting that the DDD program may require an additional $109 million to continue operating past April. “This is alarming to both the Legislature and families using this program,” he remarked, pointing out issues threatening its sustainability.

According to Livingston, three primary factors contribute to the financial strain: growing eligibility, increased rates, and the continuation of the COVID-era Parents as Paid Caregivers Program. He criticized the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) for making crucial budgetary decisions without consulting either the Legislature or DDD.

Livingston’s letter included several pressing questions directed at the Governor’s Office: “Will your office choose the same posture this year, and what is your plan if the DDD program must discontinue operations in the spring?” He also asked, “Can you explain why AHCCCS makes decisions without input?” and called for urgent clarification on how costs would be controlled moving forward. Additionally, he inquired about possible oversight measures to address the pressure on service coordinators, who are reportedly facing demands from parents that may exacerbate program spending.

This unfolding financial issue further complicates the relationship between Arizona’s Republican lawmakers and Governor Hobbs as they navigate the realities of a divided state government during the 57th Regular Session.

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.