Due to the economic crisis that everyone is experiencing, DES has enacted a rate cut for ALL Qualified Vendors and Independent providers who provide services to individuals with disabilities. DES has stated that all contractors and providers will be required to take a 10% cut in rate. Given the current economic situation, this is to be expected. Music Therapy providers and agencies fully recognize and are prepared to shoulder the burden of an equal percentage cut in rates as announced February 13, 2009. However, DES-DDD has identified two services (Habilitation-Music Therapy and Habilitation-Communication) for additional, significant rate cuts for services that your child receives. Music Therapy rates have been cut by 55% effective March 1, 2009. Unfortunately, this significant rate reduction may result in the inability of businesses and the vendors to provide Music Therapy to your child or family member effective MARCH 1, 2009. We are asking Arizona's Department of Economic Security-Division of Developmental Disabilities to reconsider their decision to label "Habilitation-Music" as a "teaching methodology." 1. Music Therapy is a unique and vital professional therapy 2. Music Therapy is an evidence-based therapy 3. Music Therapy is not merely a teaching methodology Please show your support by signing the petition below.

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