2009-11 Operating Budget

The 2009-11 Operating Budget (ESHB 1244) directed JLARC to examine the DSHS Division of Developmental Disabilities employment and day services administered by the counties.  JLARC found that both DSHS and the counties that administer employment and day services have processes that address accountability and oversight.  However, accountability and oversight of contracts and the data entry process for payments could be improved.  The report includes five recommendations for the Division.  The Legislature also directed JLARC to research best practices for outcome-based contracts.  Based on the research conducted, JLARC did not find best practices for developmental disability outcome-based contracts.  There are only a few states that have begun to use outcome-based contracts in this setting, and since this approach is new, best practices have not yet been established.