Advocate
TAKE ACTION ON THESE KEY 2024 ISSUES
Stay Connected
- Register to vote. Take action or learn more about your right to vote.
- Sign up for AHRC’s Regional Advocacy Groups―to connect with fellow advocates and educate candidates on both sides of the aisle about disability rights.
- Find out who your elected officials are. Get started.
- Set up a “lobby visit” with your representatives. Tips available here.
- Share our social media posts (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn)
At the State Level
New York State passed a $237 billion budget on April 20. While we did not achieve a 3.2% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) or Direct Support Wage Enhancement, because of your advocacy we were able to advance:
-A 2.8% COLA including a flexible 1.5% rate increase and 1.7% increase dedicated to direct care staff, clinical staff, support staff and others.
These provisions were made possible because the advocacy of self-advocates, family members, staff and friends in the community. Thank you for your support promoting the health and independence of people with developmental disabilities and staff.
Looking ahead to the 2025-26 SFY Executive Budget, advocates will request a 7.8% increase in provider rates for DSP/non-executive wages and address inflation impacting benefits, maintenance, utilities, food, supplies, transportation and insurance. *From NYDA
Take action on the upcoming state budget. Send an email.
At the Federal Level
The U.S. Senate passed the “Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) Act” (S.1332/ H.R. 2941), which requires the Office of Management and Budget to consider updating the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) and recognizing the DSP role as a distinct profession. This leads to data collection and ideally more robust funding. The bill now goes to the House Representatives.