P.People with disabilities will meet in the state capital in February to discuss the needs addressed by the programs and services that are a direct result of support by elected leaders, as well as any remaining shortcomings, in the legislatures where they work. meet. at Albany.
This is an effort to not only give people with disabilities equal opportunities, but also to ensure that fairness (that is, equity) is taken into account. This annual meeting is where the governor, state senate, and legislature work to hammer out a mutually agreeable state budget by the April 1st deadline. Volunteers and Niagara County Independent Living members welcomed representatives to the Capitol on Feb. 6 to support dozens of disability organizations across the Empire State on this first face-to-face advocacy day since COVID-19 restrictions. Coordinate with your colleagues. We have reduced them in 2020. Disability advocates and people with disabilities meet with senators and legislators to advocate for programs that are important to the disability community.
While additional issues will be considered this year, two of the most pressing concerns cited by advocates are protecting the civil rights of voters and ensuring that people with disabilities live independent and integrated lives in their communities. essential to strengthen the program that enables they are:
— Raise wages for home health care workers. Many people with severe disabilities that limit their abilities rely on personal care aids to live in their homes outside of institutions. But as companies in many sectors struggle to find enough workers to fill vacancies following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, they are raising wages, so many of his PCAs have left home health care for other jobs. Many people with disabilities who need help are placed in long-term care facilities.
To remedy this home care crisis, advocates believe raising home care workers’ wages to 150% of the state minimum wage, as outlined in the Fair Wages for Home Care Act. I’m here. Nursing homes are the only option for people with disabilities to live.
— Residential Opportunities. We need to significantly increase funding for the Access to Home Program for people with disabilities who need to modify their homes so they cannot receive institutional care. These funds were reduced from his original $10 million to $1 million. Supporters want the fund back to her $10 million.
If you’re a regular reader of this column, you know that my motto is to be involved and stand by the decisions that affect your life. So if you think someone with a disability needs the right support to become a fully participating partner in our great society, pick up the phone, write a letter, or visit Niagara County. Join dozens of people with disabilities. On February 6th, I plan to meet with New York state decision makers and speak east.
