As New York continues to strive for progress, it’s crucial that we invest in one of the most vulnerable and underserved communities: people with disabilities. The state’s Executive Budget provides an opportunity for meaningful change, and we’re calling for critical investments to ensure that people with disabilities receive the care and services they deserve.
Our priorities for this year’s budget include:
- A 7.8% Medicaid Rate Increase for I/DD Services
This increase is essential to stabilize nonprofit provider agencies that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). These agencies are the backbone of our community, providing critical support, and they need adequate resources to continue their important work. - Creation of a Wage Commission for Human Service Workers
The human service workforce is dedicated to supporting people with disabilities, but they are often underpaid for their vital roles. We propose the creation of a Wage Commission to evaluate the responsibilities of these workers and develop fair, sustainable compensation standards that reflect the true value of their work. - Enhanced Capital Funding for Agency Modernization
Many of the agencies serving people with disabilities are in need of modernization to improve operational efficiency and meet environmental standards. We advocate for enhanced capital funding to help these agencies modernize, making them more energy-efficient and aligned with New York’s ambitious climate goals.
These investments are not just necessary; they are long overdue. Ensuring that people with disabilities have access to high-quality care and services should be a top priority for New York. To learn more about these critical issues and view a flyer summarizing our position, click the link below.