A Message fromCEO Erik Geizer (Continued)
A YEAR OF OP T IMI SM
Governor Hochul is currently touring the state giving regional budget updates. Robin Pierce, Executive Director of the Advocacy and Resource Center, was invited to Governor Hochul’s address on how the NYS Budget impacted the North Country.
Following the finalization of the 2022-2023 budget, we are shifting our focus to a couple of key items, including a personal income tax credit for direct care staff on the state level and efforts on the federal level to invest $150 billion in-home and community-based services (HCBS) through budget reconciliation. Our proposal for a personal income tax credit for DSPs (S7643-A/A9200-A) was not included in the Executive or One-House budgets, but the legislation remains active in the NYS Senate and Assembly. A letter can be sent to state representatives here supporting this important legislation. In addition to our statewide efforts, each Chapter continues to deliver quality, innovative supports and services to those with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. This issue of CONNECTIONS highlights the many great things our Chapters are doing to promote our mission of providing individuals with the ordinary and extraordinary opportunities of life.
"I had an opportunity to introduce myself, and that I was with Clinton County ARC," Robin said. "I thanked the governor for putting OPWDD back on the radar in her budget. I also mentioned the funding was greatly appreciated. She thanked me for the work we do." We will continue to provide updates about regional meetings with the Governor, and future advocacy efforts to sustain quality, people-centered services, and promote opportunities for New Yorkers with I/DD.
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