*Learn to Become a Stronger Advocate! Sign up for the AHRC Advocacy Workshop on Jan. 10 at the Brookville mansion.
Protect Medicaid & SNAP
The “One Big, Beautiful Bill” (OBBB) Act was signed into law—bringing with it significant cuts to federal Medicaid and SNAP funding. Medicaid is a lifeline for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, making possible the services and supports that foster independence, inclusion, and quality of life.
- Continue to share your support for Medicaid & SNAP.
- If you or someone you know needs help finding meals, visit https://whyhunger.org/.
The Impact on State Services
The passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” is expected to prompt significant changes in the New York State Legislature, as leaders work to address the impact of cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other essential programs affecting vulnerable New Yorkers. Looking ahead to New York State’s FY27 budget, we’re planning to advocate for:
- A 2.7% Targeted Inflationary Increase (TII) to ensure funding accounts for the increased cost of living and providing services
- The Careforce Affordability Initiative to support affordable housing, childcare and healthcare for direct care staff
- Infrastructure Investments to ensure funding accounts for the increased cost of living and providing services to maintain facilities, meet state climate goals, and support innovative services
- Show your support.
Additional Issues to Consider
- Protect Special Education; Tell Congress to Conduct Oversight Hearings.
Anticipated movement of special education programs out of the Department of Education will likely reduce access and opportunities for children with disabilities through the loss of agency oversight, accountability and transparency. Urge Secretary plans to fulfill the Department’s full obligations under IDEA and other authorized disability laws. Take action. - Support SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act
The SSI Savings Elimination Act was recently reintroduced. For over 30 years, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) asset limit has been set at $2,000, while the cost of living has risen dramatically. This outdated rule leads to millions of people with disabilities living at the poverty line due to an inability to save for emergencies or a more financially secure future. Take Action.
- Advance Federal Recognition of the DSP Role
The U.S. Senate passed the “Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) Act” (S.1332/ H.R. 2941), which requires the Office of Management and Budget to consider updating the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) and recognizing the DSP role as a distinct profession. This leads to data collection and ideally more robust funding. The bill now goes to the House Representatives. Send an email to your member of Congress.
Stay Connected
- Sign up for AHRC’s Regional Advocacy Groups―to connect with fellow advocates and educate candidates on both sides of the aisle about disability rights.
- Find out who your elected officials are.
- Set up a “lobby visit” with your representatives.
- Share our social media posts (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram).