With the recent release of Governor Cuomo's proposed 2014-2015 budget, it has become clear that advocacy will once again play a critical role this year at the local, state and federal levels.

Our organization and trade associations in our field are currently analyzing the budget. In the coming weeks, a budget and legislative position will be formulated and shared with you.

What We Know So Far

Here's what we do know about the proposed budget so far:

• Continues the downsizing of institutional programs
• Provides funding for relocation of individuals from out-of-state placement and for appropriate day services and case management with SSI payments intended to cover residential costs
• More integrated employment opportunities by transforming day programs
• OPWDD state workforce reduction of 728 employees and the closing of developmental centers
• No trend for our Direct Support Professionals. The last increase was four years ago.
• The Department of Education budget lacks a cost-of-living adjustment for teachers and other staff in our preschools and early intervention programs. The last increase was six years ago.

Rate rationalization is another important issue, and we should have a better understanding of its impact on our services in the coming months as the state enters an agreement with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

How You Can Help: Advocate!

Now is the time for all of us to connect with our public officials to educate and inform them about the issues affecting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families and the agencies supporting them.
The most effective advocacy efforts come from individuals who receive services and their families. No one can more powerfully speak to the impact of services and the staff who provide them.

We urge you to:

• Invite your local officials to visit the programs your family member attends. Encourage other individuals and families from the program to join.
• Reach out to your New York Congressional representative to advocate about the importance of Medicaid services.
• If you live in New York City, you know there is not only a new mayor and public advocate, but new borough presidents and City Council Members as well. Reach out and tell them why services are important to your family. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all of these officials are educated and informed.

Trade associations in our field are also advocating. NYSACRA, a state-wide provider association, held a legislative and policy forum on Monday, Feb. 10 prior to its annual advocacy day in Albany on Tuesday, Feb. 11 for families, self-advocates and professionals. IAC, which represents agencies downstate, is scheduled to advocate in Albany on Feb. 25 and 26. The Manhattan Developmental Disabilities (DD) Council will hold its annual Family Advocacy Day on Friday, Feb. 28, when they will visit state legislators in local offices. Check with your local DD Council for its schedule.

We will keep you posted with as we continue to analyze the Governor’s budget, its potential impact and how you can help.