The California Self-Determination Program has been a game-changer for people with developmental disabilities and their families. For regional center clients, it can be an alternative to the traditional way of providing regional center services. The program allows participants to use their specific budgets to purchase services and supports they need to make their person-center plans work better for them. Participants may choose what services they want, which providers to provide those services and the amount they pay those providers with some limitations. Participants are not restricted only to what the regional center typically pays for and service providers specifically vendored with a regional center. Notwithstanding the world of possibilities opened with the program, it still can be challenging to navigate, and many regional center clients are unaware of its potential even though enrollment has been allowed since July of 2021. The newly approved California state budget also will have an uncertain impact on the program.

Our speaker, Melissa Amster, Esq., is an attorney focusing on special education and regional center benefits for people with disabilities and their families. She is also an Independent Facilitator in the Self-Determination Program. This program is an absolute must for attorneys who advise fiduciaries, financial advisors, or other professionals who currently, or may in the future, provide services relating to persons with developmental disabilities.