In 2011, Washington State reviewed how employment and dayservices were provided to adults with developmental disabilities. TheLegislature directed an Employment and Day Services Workgroup to recommend anew approach to services, with a continued emphasis on the state’s EmploymentFirst policy. As part of this shift, Adult Day Health services were no longerprovided through the developmental disabilities service system and insteadreturned to the state plan services under aging and long-term care programs.

The Workgroup examined how employment services, communityaccess programs, and other day supports should work together to meet individualneeds. While members did not reach full consensus on all recommendations, therewas agreement that employment should remain the primary service option forworking-age adults. The report also highlighted the importance of strengtheningtransition services with schools and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation,as well as expanding respite supports for families. The discussions reflectedongoing efforts to balance employment goals with flexible supports forindividuals and families.