The New York State budget has provided less than expected for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), leaving direct support professionals (DSPs) without a substantial increase in salaries [953452e8]. The salaries for DSPs, who provide essential assistance to individuals with IDD, did not receive the needed increase to keep pace with inflation and overcome the lack of significant pay raise over a decade [953452e8]. The increase in the minimum wage to $15 per hour in New York State has exacerbated the staffing crisis, as DSP wages need a proportionate increase to compete with minimum wage jobs [953452e8]. Not-for-profit agencies that recruit, train, supervise, and retain DSPs also require adequate funding to provide quality supports and ensure the safety and well-being of individuals with IDD [953452e8]. Advocacy efforts are needed to secure more funding and improve the system that provides multiple services to people with IDD across New York State [953452e8].