Michael Testa, a senator from New Jersey, emphasized the critical role organizations like Elwyn play in supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and highlighted the importance of strong staff and continued backing. This statement was made on X.
“Touring one of the state’s substantial providers of support, treatment, and education for adults with IDD today was gratifying,” said Testa. “Elwyn has a very dedicated and compassionate staff serving the needs of adults & our support is integral in their success.”
In New Jersey, recent initiatives include a cross-sector effort led by The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. This initiative aims to train healthcare providers in treating adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). According to Rutgers News, 212 participants reported a 32.6% gain in knowledge, with 45% planning changes in practice. This development reflects broader state policy efforts to enhance support for adults with I/DD.
The 2023-24 National Core Indicators‑IDD Adult Family Survey for New Jersey revealed that 51% of families of adults with I/DD who live at home and receive at least one service reported receiving crisis/emergency services “when needed.” This is compared to the weighted National Core Indicators (NCI) average of 57%, providing a benchmark for service utilization and perceived responsiveness for adults with I/DD.
According to the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities state profile, the estimated prevalence of developmental disabilities in New Jersey is 6.60% of the population. The state has 2,688 individuals on Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waitlists, aligning it with national trends where many states report significant waitlists and workforce challenges in I/DD services.
Michael L. Testa Jr., a Republican member of the New Jersey Senate representing the 1st Legislative District, was sworn in on December 5, 2019. He holds a B.A. and J.D. from Villanova University and an LL.M. from Temple University. Testa serves on the Senate Budget & Appropriations Committee and Judiciary Committee, reflecting his legislative experience and legal background.
The New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), part of the New Jersey Department of Human Services, is responsible for providing services to eligible New Jersey adults aged 21 and older with intellectual or developmental disabilities. It partners with community-based providers to deliver day, residential, and family support services as outlined in state guides. This structure demonstrates the state’s commitment to community-based supports for people with I/DD.