Rallying to #KeepThePromise

12/15/2015

 
 
 
California MENTOR rallied together with thousands of supporters of The Lanterman Act urging our legislators to #KeepThePromise. The Lanterman Coalition had been advocating for a 10-percent across the board increase ($380 Million) to begin restoring basic services to people with developmental disabilities. The State Budget Bill passed in June 2015, included $98 Million in additional rate increases, which amounted to a 2.6% increase. But the agreement announced in June 2015 by Governor, Jerry Brown, and Legislative leaders did not include an increase of the 2.6% that was promised.

“Waiting is no longer an option. The system is in crisis and we must act now.” – Senator Jim Beall Jr.

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities face an uncertain future after a decade of cuts to community service programs in the state budget. In the last 100 years, Californians with disabilities have seen just one 3% increase in the budget. While the cost of living continues to rise, programs that increase the quality of life for people with special needs like Autism, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy are being put at risk.

To continue our mission of providing quality services and empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live independently, we must stand together and encourage our legislators to increase the funding for the Developmental Disabilities community.

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