FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 8, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

AUSTIN, TX – Today, Time To Care: Save Texas Caregivers Now announced that Autism Speaks has joined the coalition, further strengthening the statewide movement to address the urgent issue of underfunding faced by direct support professionals (DSPs) who tirelessly care for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD).

The chronic underfunding of DSPs has not only compromised the quality of care provided to individuals with IDD but has also led to the regrettable closure of essential group homes, leaving many vulnerable Texans without vital support.

“We look forward to working with the Time to Care coalition as we seek to improve the pay for DSPs who support tens of thousands of Texans,” said Christa Stevens, Director of State Government Affairs at Autism Speaks. “Individuals with autism can thrive when they have appropriate supports and services, and DSPs are often an integral part of such support. Access to DSPs is dependent on the ability to attract and retain these workers and the first step is to provide an adequate wage.”

The coalition is urging state leaders to authorize an emergency appropriations request through the Legislative Budget Board (LBB) to raise the salary for community-based DSPs from $10.60 to $15 an hour. This will help address the immediate workforce crisis facing DSPs, ensuring that Texans with IDD can receive the support they need.

Coalition spokesperson Sandy Batton expressed profound gratitude for Autism Speaks’ partnership, stating: “The addition of Autism Speaks to our coalition is an incredible step, as it magnifies our collective voice. Their participation demonstrates significant progress in securing more support for the people who care for Texans with IDD. Together, we’re working towards a future where DSPs are empowered to better serve some of the most vulnerable communities in our state.”

Autism Speaks was founded in 2005 when three leading autism organizations combined their resources to better advocate for enhanced services, inclusion, resources and support for the autism community and to create a stronger, nationwide footprint. Since that time, Autism Speaks has continued working alongside other organizations and the autistic community to make extraordinary advancements for people across the autism spectrum. Dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan, Autism Speaks enhances lives today and accelerates a spectrum of solutions for tomorrow through advocacy, services, supports, research and innovation, and advances in care for autistic individuals and their families. Learn more at https://www.autismspeaks.org/

Time To Care: Save Texas Caregivers Now is a coalition dedicated to securing competitive wages for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who provide essential care to Texans with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). Through collaboration and grassroots efforts, the coalition strives to enact meaningful change at both the legislative and community levels. Learn more about how to get involved at https://timetocaretx.org/

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