Who ultimately approves the budget created during the service planning process?

The approval of the budget created during the service planning process falls to the AE (Administrative Entity) or the County. The AE or County is responsible for overseeing the funding and allocation of resources within the intellectual disability system. They ensure that the proposed budget aligns with regulatory requirements, service availability, and the specific needs of individuals receiving services. This structure helps to maintain oversight and ensures that funding is used effectively to support the objectives of the service planning process.

Options such as the private provider or the individual receiving services may have input during the planning phase, but they do not have the final authority to approve the budget. The local government may play a role in broader policy and funding discussions, but it is the AE/County that holds the ultimate decision-making power in this context. Therefore, the AE/County's role is crucial in maintaining the integrity and accountability of funding within the intellectual disability service system.