Starting August 14, 2026, Arkansas Support Network (ASN) is implementing a financial
stabilization plan directed by the Board of Directors.
Why is ASN doing this?
A delay in state rate increases (Act 1023) and significant service tier downgrades by the
PASSEs have created a substantial funding gap. After cutting administrative spending, reducing
management pay, and drawing on reserve funds, additional steps are required to keep our
doors open and continue serving the people we support.
What measures are included in the plan?
● DSP Wage Cap: A $15.00/hour cap for all 1:1 Direct Support Professional (DSP) roles.
● Overtime Restrictions: A strict goal of zero unapproved overtime, backed by a new
approval process.
● Executive Salary Reductions: Reductions to CEO, Executive, and Senior Director
leadership salaries.
● Administrative Reductions: Reductions in administrative staffing.
Job Security & Compensation
Who is affected by the $15/hour wage cap?
This cap applies to all hourly employees in the 1:1 Direct Support Professional (DSP) position.
What if my current pay is higher than $15/hour?
If you currently earn more than $15/hour as a 1:1 DSP, HR will contact you directly to explain
how this change affects your pay. Please wait to speak with HR before assuming what your
individual pay rate will be. This change takes effect on August 14, 2026, and will not affect pay
earned before that date.
Will I lose my job?
Our main goal is to protect direct support and frontline positions. The reduction in force that will
occur will be for administrative positions, and anyone affected by those actions will be contacted
and informed directly by HR.
If your specific position is eliminated or changed, HR will follow our Employee Handbook
policies to notify you, assist with reassignments, and provide information on benefits,
unemployment, COBRA, and local job resources.
Will overtime still be paid?
Yes. By law, any overtime worked will be paid at time-and-a-half (calculated from your base
rate). However, effective immediately, all unapproved overtime is prohibited. A new
overtime request process will be outlined at the upcoming staff meeting.
Can I work off the clock to support the person I serve?
No. Working off the clock is strictly forbidden. You must record all working time in SetWorks
and submit your Activity Records at the end of each shift. If anyone asks you to work off the
clock, report it to HR immediately.
How long will these changes last?
These measures will remain in place until ASN reaches long-term financial stability.
Supports, Safety, & Operations
Will these cuts compromise safety or care quality for the person I support?
No. Safety, person-centered support, and legal compliance remain nonnegotiable.
● Continue following all ISPs, medication procedures, and safety protocols as normal.
● Continue reporting incidents and safety concerns immediately (standard reporting
window to DDS/PASSE still applies).
● If staffing changes ever create a safety risk, ASN will trigger emergency procedures and
notify legal guardians and state authorities.
What if a family chooses to transition to a different provider?
We will follow state CES Waiver guidelines. ASN remains responsible for services during the
transition period (up to 90 days) and will cooperate fully to transfer records and coordinate care.
Practical reminders for staff
● Continue following ISPs, medication procedures, and safety protocols without change.
● Complete Activity Records at the end of your shift daily. Record hours accurately in
SetWorks and do not work off the clock.
● Report incidents and safety concerns immediately.
● Attend the town hall and any scheduled listening sessions; your feedback matters.
Feedback, Support, & Contact Info
How can I share cost-saving ideas or ask questions?
● Submit Ideas: Open a ticket via www.dspsupports.org/submit_ticket or submit ideas to
your supervisor.
● Attend Meetings: Join scheduled department meetings and listening sessions to ask
questions directly.
Who do I contact with specific concerns?
● Executive Leadership: Syard Evans, CEO, sevans@supports.org
● HR (Pay, Benefits, Job Status): asnhrdepartment@supports.org
● Compliance & Safety Concerns: asncr@supports.org
● Immediate Safety Risks: Contact your direct supervisor right away.