Establishes a grant program to enhance the accessibility and coordination of 211 services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
The Secretary of Health and Human Services will award grants to improve the capacity of 211 services.
Eligible entities must submit applications that include the formation of an advisory council to oversee grant implementation.
The advisory council will include individuals with developmental disabilities, their family members, and representatives from relevant organizations.
Grant funds can be used for:
Establishing and maintaining a 211 database for developmental disability resources.
Hiring and training 211 specialists.
Developing data collection protocols to track service usage and outcomes.
Upgrading technology for service tracking and analysis.
Conducting outreach campaigns to raise awareness of 211 services.
The Secretary will establish data collection protocols to monitor 211 service usage and identify disparities.
Technical assistance centers will be funded to support grant recipients in planning and implementing activities.
Annual reports are required from grant recipients detailing their activities.
A report to Congress will be issued after the grant program concludes, summarizing best practices and demographic data of service users.
Defines key terms such as “211 service,” “developmental disability,” and “eligible entity.”
Authorizes $75 million annually for the grant program from 2025 to 2029.
Establishes a separate grant program for peer and family navigators to assist individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in accessing services.
Prioritizes grants for entities serving underserved communities or underperforming schools.
Grants for navigators can be used for transition planning in various life areas, including education, housing, and health services.
Authorizes $50 million annually for the peer and family navigator program from 2025 to 2029.