Advocacy
NYS Disability Community Policy Priority Visits
NYS DISABILITY COMMUNITY POLICY PRIORITY VISITS
By Erin Vallely, ATI Advocacy Specialist
May 27, 2022
Introduction
In May, Access to Independence (ATI) and the Finger Lakes Independence Center (FLIC) held meetings with Assemblywoman Kelles (D-125) and Assemblyman Lemondes (D-126) to discuss important disability policy proposals. Staff and community members advocated for many of NYAIL’s policy priorities and both assembly members shared valuable insights to their work. While the session is still under way, it’s unlikely the priorities will be passed because they have not made it out of committee. However, many of these bills will be carried over from this year to the next session, and are important to know about.
NYS Disability Community Budget Priorities: 2022 Outcomes
NEW YORK STATE BUDGET WINS, LOSSES AFFECT ILCS & DISABILITY COMMUNITY
By Erin Vallely, ATI Advocacy Specialist
April 28, 2022
Introduction
Throughout February and March, the NYS disability community continued to advocate for our NYS budget priorities. In April, the final budget for fiscal year 2022-2023 was decided and voted on. Ultimately, the disability community had some wins, and some losses. Some of the most important outcomes include:
Emergency Planning for People with Disabilities (& How You Can Help Ukrainian Families)
NATURAL & MAN-MADE DISASTER PLANNING FOR DISABLED, ILL, AND INJURED INDIVIDUALS
By Erin Vallely, ATI Advocacy Specialist
March 24, 2022
Introduction
Whether a snowstorm in New York or the war in Ukraine, everyone is susceptible to unexpected disasters. With reports of at least 2.6 million verified disabled Ukrainians, plus hospitalized patients, and newly disabled war victims, this is a disability community crisis. As the Russian military continues to attack civilian areas, hospitals, hospices, orphanages, and schools for the disabled are being bombed. Many disabled and ill individuals are trapped in apartment buildings and houses because public bomb shelters are inaccessible. The lucky disabled and ill children are being rushed out of the country on special trains that have been converted into portable hospitals. After crossing into Poland, the children will be dispersed to other European children’s hospitals. Those who cannot escape, or have yet to be found by rescuers, suffer from the lack of food, clean water, and critical medical supplies and medications.
Fair Pay For Home Care Update: Get Involved!
THE IMPORTANCE OF 'FAIR PAY FOR HOME CARE' FOR CONSUMERS AND EMPLOYEES
By Erin Vallely, ATI Advocacy Specialist
February 24, 2022
Introduction
Like many seniors and disabled / chronically ill individuals, I rely on other people to help me get in and out of bed, dressed, go to the bathroom, get to work, cook, and clean. Right now, I live in the community because my parents can provide the help that I need. However, if something happens to them, I will likely be forced into a nursing home unless I can hire enough staff.
