Are human services budget increases making an impact?
WCAX
A new report sheds light on whether Vermont’s big investments in mental health and home health agencies are paying off, and also raising questions about how the state funds its designated agencies.
Lawmakers last year set aside $294 million for mental health providers, $282 million for developmental services for adult and home-care providers, and $247 million for long-term care providers. Many providers received grants for recruitment and retention as well. More rate increases are proposed in this year’s budget, but are they making a difference?
Coming out of the pandemic, lawmakers passed big rate increases for organizations and nonprofits the state relies on for mental health, including senior care, home health, and transportation.