(a) There is hereby established the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services under the direction and control of the Secretary of the Department of Health and Social Services.
(b) The mission of the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services is to provide services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families which enable them to make informed choices that lead to an improved quality of life and meaningful participation in their communities.
(c) The Division of Developmental Disabilities Services shall have the following powers and duties:
(1) Provide case management and community-based services including family supports, advocacy, respite, residential setting options, nurse and behavioral consultation, day services, and supported employment services to assist individuals achieve their goals.
(2), (3) [Repealed.]
(4) Provide intermediate care facility residential services.
(d) The Division of Developmental Disabilities Services shall ensure the investigation of complaints of abuse, neglect, mistreatment and financial exploitation. Such investigations may be in coordination with the Attorney General's Office, law-enforcement or other appropriate agencies.
(e) The Division of Developmental Disabilities Services shall be authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to implement this statute.
(f) It is the intent of the General Assembly for the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS) to phase in increases to the rate system for services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) based on the market study provided to the Office of Management and Budget and the Controller General on January 17, 2014, by the Department of Health and Social Services Secretary, as subsequently updated with utilization data for fiscal year 2018 and updated component percentages. Subject to available funding, these rates shall be phased in to 100 percent of the benchmarked levels established.