Several state lawmakers, including Mitch Bolinsky of Newtown, have formed a special caucus on the needs of the intellectually and developmentally disabled.  A large crowd turned out Friday on the issue.  Parents said more funding needs to be committed for programs to help with housing, personal car assistance and other needs.

Many speakers feared what would happen to their children when aging parents die. 

Bolinsky said here was some very meaningful testimony about long-term planning, rather than "emergency" supports as being a less disruptive and possibly less costly approach.

Speakers like Jodi Santoro said while the Malloy Administration commits billions to UConn and other high profile projects, the Department of Development Services budget gets cut.  Bolinsky said the Department funding cuts pose a threat to what many consider indispensable support services in group homes, day programs, employment services and subsidized developmentally-disabled housing options.

Bolinsky says the need is not decreasing, nor will it go away so it is time to stop hiding heads in the sand and face the issues head on.