A proposed federal budget championed by Republicans in Washington, D.C. may cut important funding for services that support over 170,000 Georgians with developmental disabilities, threatening the state’s disability support network. The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Network in Georgia, including the Georgia Advocacy Office, University Centers for Excellence, and Developmental Disabilities Councils, could face significant program reductions or termination.
These cuts, alongside possible Medicaid reductions, may harm essential services that help individuals with disabilities live and thrive in their communities. Ruby Moore, Executive Director of the Georgia Advocacy Office, emphasized that losing these supports could lead to more institutionalization and reduced legal protections. Each agency plays a unique and indispensable role in supporting the well-being and independence of Georgians with disabilities. “The strength of the DD Network is in our collective impact—whether that’s helping children leave nursing homes, preventing abuse and neglect, or empowering families with the tools they need to thrive,” said Ruby Moore, Executive Director of the Georgia Advocacy Office. “I can’t imagine a Georgia without these supports in place.”
The potential loss of these services could lead to increased institutionalization, diminished legal protections, fewer educational and employment opportunities, and a heightened risk of harm for individuals with disabilities. Advocates warn that such cuts could undo years of progress and strain state systems. Georgia’s DD Network encourages the disability community to reach out to state and federal representatives, share personal stories, attend town hall meetings, and raise awareness about the potential funding cuts on social media.
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