California has a long tradition of being a trendsetter for the rest of the nation on key public policy issues such as the environment, but it is also the only state that has passed a law to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can live as independently as possible. Known as the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act, or Lanterman Act, for short, this law passed in 1969, and says that children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities have a right to the services and supports they need to live high-quality, productive lives, in integrated communities of their choice.
Today it’s a #BrokenPromise.
Long-term funding shortfalls that were exacerbated by more than $1 billion in cuts during the Great Recession have left the Lanterman Act severely underfunded. Many services have been decimated and community based providers across California are being forced to lower standards, slash programs and shut their doors. While much of the economy has recovered from the deep recession, the state’s system of care under the Lanterman Act remains in real jeopardy. The Lanterman Coalition, a huge coalition of advocates, providers, family members and others are advocating for a 10% across the board increase for regional centers and community providers.
Final Chance to Contact Your State Senator and Assemblymember
On Monday, June 15th, the California Legislature is scheduled to vote on the final budget package, including this 10% request, before sending that budget package for the 2015-2016 State Budget year to Governor Brown. Action is needed now to fix our current broken system.
The Lanterman Coalition is asking everyone to join in a virtual candlelight vigil and do the following:
o Go to their Facebook page here
And download and share the “Let It Shine” video here
o Include the hashtags: #LetItShine #KeepThePromise #DoTheRightThing #CABudget
o And tag the two legislative leaders and governor: @kdeleon @ToniAtkins @JerryBrownGov
Help restore funding to our statewide system and take action now. Thanks.
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