Budget Cuts Brought to You by the Pathologically Vicious
Posted on October 22, 2009
By Chris Hilderbrant, Director of Advocacy
*Update* Center for Disabilities response to the Executive’s proposed Defecit Reduction Plan (DRP)
We’re all getting used to budget cuts. It used to only happen around budget season, but with the state and national economies in the tank, Governor Paterson has realized that the only thing he can do to boost his plummeting ratings is to talk tough about ‘making hard decisions’ and ‘cutting spending.’
Ok, I get all that. Money is tight and states should not make a habit of spending more than is needed. We’ve been suggesting areas where the state could reduce its spending for years, but none of the political “leaders” would make those tough decisions because the economy was solid and the leaders could keep spending on pet projects to keep their donors happy. Read more
Filed Under Advocacy, Chris Hilderbrant, Community-based services, Consumer Directed Personal Assistance, Home Care, Independence, Independent Living, Medicaid | 4 Comments
What is the True Meaning of Reasonable Accommodation?
Posted on October 6, 2009
By: Sara Furguson
As most of you probably know, the Americans with Disabilities Act granted a number of protections to those with disabilities. Under Title I of the Act, applicants and employees with disabilities receive protection from the unjust employment discrimination that has been forever present in our society. Among these employment protections is the requirement for employers to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities. While there are many provisions to the statute, there are key points that I will address in an attempt to clarify this sometimes complex law. Read more
Filed Under Advocacy, Americans with Disabilities Act, Employment, Sara Furguson | 1 Comment
Albany County Long Term Care Plan: Imagine this
Posted on October 2, 2009
By Leah Farrell, Policy Analyst
Imagine this:
> A world where elected officials hear the cries of people who want to remain in their homes.
> A world where thoughtful long term care planning does not include institutions.
> A world where local governments close down nursing facilities to invest in community-based services.
Sound too good to be true?
Well, it is happening in Albany County, but here is what you couldn’t have imagined:
> The Albany County Legislature is fighting back and demanding the county build a new nursing home! Read more