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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 25, 2009
Contact: Diane Coleman, 585-546-7510 dcoleman@cdrnys.org
Gov’s DRP still calls for unconscionable cuts to people with disabilities
(Albany, NY): Despite the continued efforts by advocates across the state and the dedication from both the Senate and Assembly Majorities to protect the State’s supplement to Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Governor Paterson is still proposing cutting this already small assistance to New York’s seniors and people with disabilities.
SSI is a joint federal and state program that provides monthly cash assistance to low income seniors and people with disabilities to assist them in meeting their basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.
During last year’s budget crisis (FY09), the Executive proposed cutting the State’s supplement of SSI. Through tireless efforts of advocates across the State, the Legislature recognized the vast importance of the State’s supplement and that, particularly in difficult fiscal times, the State cannot place the burden of balancing the budget on the backs of New York’s most vulnerable population. Success was achieved and the enacted budget restored the State’s supplement.
Now, New York State is once again calling on the poorest of the poor to bear the burden to resolve the fiscal crisis. The Executive’s latest proposed Deficit Reduction Plan (DRP) calls for reductions to the State supplement of SSI to individuals and couples living alone, and individuals and couples living with others.
We have watched this DRP fight drag out over the past few weeks and we recognize that nothing was held harmless in the DRP -but this proposed cut to SSI is deplorable!
When the Legislature returns on Monday, November 30 to tackle the proposed DRP, the Assembly and Senate must remain strong in protecting the State’s supplement of SSI.
The Center for Disability Rights, Inc. (CDR) is a non-profit service and advocacy organization devoted to the full integration, independence and civil rights of people of all ages with all types of disabilities. With services in 13 counties in New York State (NYS) and offices in Rochester, Corning, Geneva and Albany, CDR represents the concerns of thousands of people with disabilities.
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