Both the Assembly and Senate showed support for Independent Living Centers (ILCs) in their One-House Budgets released in March – but as they say in Albany, until everything is agreed - nothing is agreed. That means that as we approach May with no budget passed, it is time to remind state leaders about the importance of properly funding ILCs. 

ILCs are the only statewide network of disability-led organizations. They help disabled New Yorkers navigate complicated systems to get the supports they need to live independently in the community. With the long-term services and supports that disabled people rely on under threat from in Washington and already suffering from the shift to PPL here in NY, it is more important than ever for the state to invest in ILCs. 

Correcting years of under-funding by including ILCs in the Targeted Inflationary Increase (a cost-of-living increase for ILC direct service staff) and increasing our base funding will ensure centers have the staff and resources needed to adequately support their communities, by providing critical education, helping coordinate access to services, helping folks stay out of nursing homes, and building independent living skills.

We need you to remind your legislators that both a funding increase and inclusion in the Targeted Inflationary Increase is needed. Call or email your legislators and ask them keep supporting ILCs today!