L.A. County Raises Concerns About Proposed State Funding Changes That Could Impact Critical Services
LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department (AD) is raising concerns about proposed updates to the State’s funding formula that could significantly impact services for older adults and people with disabilities across the region.
Based on initial estimates, Los Angeles County could see up to a 17% reduction in funding under the proposed Intrastate Funding Formula (IFF) administered by the California Department of Aging (CDA).
This reduction could translate into approximately $4.1 million less in funding for nutrition programs alone, resulting in nearly 396,000 fewer meals annually, or about 1,571 fewer meals each day for older adults across the County.
“We support the State’s efforts to modernize the funding formula and better align resources with need,” said Maral Karaccusian, Director of the Aging & Disabilities Department. “At the same time, these early estimates show that even small shifts in how the formula is applied can have very real consequences. A short validation step will help ensure the formula works as intended and protects access to essential services.”
The proposed updates are part of broader statewide efforts, including SB 1249 and California’s “CA 2030”, to better align funding with need by incorporating factors such as age, income, disability, and geography. However, department leaders note that how these factors are weighted can significantly affect funding outcomes, particularly in large and densely populated counties like Los Angeles.
“Having previously led the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) in Los Angeles County, I’ve seen firsthand how critical these services are and how quickly demand can outpace resources,” said Victoria Jump, Acting Chief Deputy of the Aging & Disabilities Department. “This is not about opposing change. It’s about making sure the formula reflects real-world service delivery and does not unintentionally reduce support in high-need communities.”
Funding distributed through the IFF supports essential services such as home-delivered and congregate meals, caregiver support, ombudsman services, legal services, and case management. A reduction at this scale could limit access to these services for thousands of older adults who rely on them to remain safe, healthy, and independent.
“When we talk about a reduction of this scale, we are talking about fewer meals on the table, fewer supports like case management and caregiver assistance that help older adults remain safe at home” Karaccusian added. “Taking a moment to validate the model now will help avoid unintended impacts later.”
While AD supports modernization of the funding formula and its equity goals, the Department is urging a short validation step before finalization to ensure the formula performs as intended across California’s diverse communities. This step would include testing a small number of alternative scenarios and confirming that funding outcomes align with real-world service needs.
The proposed funding changes are expected to take effect in 2026.
The Department has created an online campaign hub with additional information, resources, and ways for the public to share feedback and take action by contacting their state representatives.
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ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
The Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department (AD) serves the growing population of older adults, dependent adults, and individuals with disabilities in Los Angeles County.
The department offers a broad range of services aimed at fostering dignity, independence, and overall well-being. Through compassionate and intentional support, AD ensures that individuals can live fulfilling lives within their communities, maintaining the highest quality of life possible.
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