From the CPD Consumer Advisory Council (CAC)
The Utah Legislative Session will convene on January 25, 2010 this month. February 3rd is the last day for the Legislature to either pass or defeat each base budget bill–by noon.
We have already seen the impact of the budget cuts for the 2009-2010 fiscal year. We know that further budget cuts are coming. The Governor’s recommended budget for the upcoming fiscal year, July 1, 2010-June 30, 2011, proposes an additional $10 million dollar cut to the Department of Services for Persons with Disabilities (DSPD). Cuts in administration, provider rates, high cost services, and even classes of service are unavoidable.
The time for action is now! Please consider joining with members of the disability community to educate decision-makers about the importance of the supports and services that are essential to persons with disabilities.
The Utah Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) is asking for persons with disabilities and/or their family members to “tell your stories” to our legislators. Let them hear how these services benefit those with disabilities. Let them hear what the impact of losing those services will have on individuals and families.
DDC suggests that you include in your story 1) What kind of needs does a disability create for the individual or their family?, 2) What formal and informal supports is the person with disabilities or their family currently receiving?, and 3) Are your needs currently being met through the services and supports that you use?
Please take the time now to contact your legislators and advocate for the services and supports that are vital to the lives of persons with disabilities.
You can send your stories to: mhonore@utah.gov/ (a Utah DDC staff member).