AR SB51

Appropriates $191,735,153 for the Department of Human Services - Division of Developmental Disabilities Services for fiscal year 2023-2024, including $97,014,979 for regular salaries and $42,033,860 for personal services matching.

Authorizes a maximum of 2,535 regular employees and 200 temporary or part-time "Extra Help" employees across various classifications ranging from administrative support to clinical positions.

Appropriates additional funds for grants to Arkansas Special Olympics ($178,768), community-based provider grants ($15,892,045), inter-divisional programs ($108,644), and children's medical services ($3,175,484 combined state and federal).

Requires private community-based providers receiving state funds to screen individuals for Medicaid eligibility within 30 days and maximize utilization of Medicaid coverage for eligible individuals receiving services.

Codifies prohibitions on closure of the five existing human development centers and authorizes up to $1,000,000 to eliminate the Autism Waiver Services Program waiting list, with provisions effective July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024.