Last week, the Legislature unanimously passed a resolution in opposition to proposed cuts to the New York State Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP). The governor’s proposed budget would cut $75 million from the state-wide Medicaid program, which provides services to chronically ill, physically disabled individuals, those with developmental disabilities, and seniors who have a medical need for help with daily living activities. CDPAP allows individuals to choose their own at-home care and who provides it.

Legislator Joe Lorigo said, “CDPAP is what many people rely on to choose affordable home-based care with service providers they are comfortable with. This proposed funding cut takes that basic right away from some of our most vulnerable. We are calling on Governor Cuomo to do what is best for these individuals and re-instate the funding in this year’s budget.”

Legislator Lynne Dixon said, “From those with disabilities to seniors and other chronically-ill individuals, CDPAP funding is a lifeline. A 75 million dollar cut could potentially end the program altogether. We are calling on Governor Cuomo to restore this funding and protect the most vulnerable in our communities.”

Legislator Ed Rath said, “These cuts will decrease the quality of care people receive and limit pay to employees through CDPAP funding. This could put the entire program in jeopardy if the funding is not secured. The governor must give this money back to those in our community who need it most.”

In a recent news article, which can be found here, a representative from the Center for Disability Rights in Rochester said, "You want to be in charge of who has the keys to your home, who touches your body, who helps you with the most intimate tasks...this is all about control over our own lives and it helps disabled people, and elderly people as they age stay in their own homes."

A copy of the resolution can be found here.