It’s a new day!

After more than a decade of neglect, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), the nonprofits and workforce that provide supports are getting the investment they deserve.

During her State of the State address, Governor Kathy Hochul announced plans for a significant investment in our workforce, supports and services.

The proposal also includes many of the CP State/NYDA requests, including:

• 5.4% cost of living adjustment (COLA)

• $3,000 in retention bonuses,

• Connecting Immigrant New Yorkers to Direct Support Professions

• Expanding the Direct Support Professional Career and Technical Education Program

• Expanding the SUNY for All Partnership with OPWDD

• Supporting More Career Flexibility for Direct Care Workers

• Making New York a Model for the Employment of Workers with Disabilities

• Creating an Office of the Chief Disability Officer

“We applaud the Governor for making New Yorkers with disabilities a priority in her budget, and in the state,” said Susan Constantino, President and CEO of CP State. “Our sector has been in crisis for too long, and I am encouraged to see the Governor understands our challenges and is willing to address them. But that didn’t happen in a vacuum. Our Affiliates, their staff, the people we support and their families, have all made their voices heard over these past months and years. We thank all for your tireless advocacy.”

Read more about the Governor’s investment here: https://on.ny.gov/3JMC3aH