Every year, the New York State budget is negotiated and voted on in March, passing by April 1. This budget, typically around $160 billion, affects virtually everything that happens in New York. It includes funding and priorities for almost every government function, including the MTA, public schools, healthcare, and, of course, the critical services YAI provides.

Since the budget is so important to all that we do, YAI Self Advocate Janice McPhillips sat down (virtually) with NYS Senator John Mannion to talk about the work he and his colleagues are focused on, the budget, and other issues important to people with disabilities. Senator Mannion was newly elected to the State Senate this year and was appointed Chair of the Committee on Disabilities. He's been a forceful advocate for people with disabilities and we're looking forward to working with him on all our priorities going forward. Check out the video for an informative interview, where the Senator lays out some budget items he is working on that will affect the I/DD community.