· On February 4, 2009, the governor proposed a budget which eliminated state support for Centers for Independent Living (CILS) (funds to support CILS come from both state and federal sources). The Governor's rationale was that it appeared that federal stimulus funds would support us.
· That decision (to cut us out) was decided in a setting in which the U.S. House of Representatives had just approved $200 m. for Independent Living (nationwide) in its version of stimulus bill.
· On February 5, 2009 the U.S. Senate began debating economic stimulus and the $200 m. was cut to $100 m. (nationwide).
· Right now, an influential group of Senators wants to cut all disability funding (inc. CILS) from the stimulus bill.
· That action (if approved by a Conference Committee) would make the Governor's cut disastrous….CILS would only be funded with current federal $.
· For the disabled population, services would be cut in half!
Here's where your help is needed; please advocate for us by doing the following:
· Immediately contact Senator Leiberman (info. below) and ask that funding for CILS be included in the Stimulus bill because the Governor's Budget eliminates state support premised on stimulus funding.
· On February 18, 2009, the CT Human Services Appropriations Committee will meet in Hartford to discuss the state budget---you'll be contacted soon.
Senator Lieberman:
(800) 225-5605 Voice
(866) 317-2242 Fax
Online email form: http://lieberman.senate.g...index.cfm?regarding=issue
(DO NOT MAIL AS IT TAKES 10 DAYS!)
If you would like more detailed information regarding funding for CILs, please contact Stephanie at smastrolillo@drcfc.org.
Thanks.
Tony LaCava,
Executive Director
Disability Resource Center of Fairfield County
80 Ferry Blvd, suite 210
Stratford, CT 06615
203.378.6977
203.375.2748 FAX
