DISABILITY RIGHTS CALIFORNIA - LEGISLATION & PUBLIC INFORMATION

California's public safety net was frayed this year by cuts to SSI, In Home Supportive Services (IHSS), Medi-Cal, and regional center services. As a result, many Californians with disabilities were asked to forego the very services that allow them to live safely and independently in the community. Unfortunately, the Governor's budget issued just after the New Year proposes to eliminate much of what remains of the safety net, stitched together over 30 years.

We have not yet convinced policy makers that, in the end, these cuts cost more. For every person who moves to a nursing home because of losing IHSS the State will have to pay an average of $59, 700 - more than five times the cost of IHSS services. Plus, the loss of home and dignity will take its toll. While it is true that the State faces a fiscal crisis, it is becoming clear we are also on the brink of a humanitarian disaster.

In 2009 Disability Rights California worked to stop the cuts, minimize their impact and provide effective public education about their consequences. In two cases federal court judges halted the cuts in recognition that the State's budget crisis does not excuse violations of federal law. In one case, the court noted that "...the IHSS cuts would actually cost the State tens of millions of additional dollars" and that "IHSS caregivers reduce the need for expensive emergency room visits and hospitalizations."

This year we also helped tens of thousands of Californians with disabilities fight discrimination, prevent abuse, obtain education, benefits and other services, and made sure that thousands more had opportunities to learn about their rights. Their stories show that even in challenging times, California can become a more barrier free and inclusive place to live.

Now, we have to look beyond the immediate fiscal crisis and envision the future of California. We must look for opportunities to integrate our long term care system, reduce our reliance on institutions and promote safe, quality community living options. We can be at the forefront of national efforts to reduce the use of seclusion and restraint and expand access to public accommodations. We invite you to join us not only in the hard work to preserve critical services to Californians with disabilities but also in creating the vision for what we want California to look like in the decade ahead.