As the beginning of the
legislative session is only a week away, I thought it would be good to check
in. If you are getting these e-mails and wish to be removed, please just
email me your name and email address and I will remove you.
On the other hand, if you
know someone who is not on the list and wants to get updates, please send me
their names and e-mail address and I will add them on.
ISSUES:
The SRS budget will again be
our main topic of interest. Along with the Big Tent Coalition, KACIL
is advocating for a supplemental (additional funds for this fiscal
year) and an additional $56 million dollars which would deal provide
services to the over 2,000 people on the waiting lists. It would also restore
all the cuts that were made two years ago in other programs such as Family
Supports, Pharmacy rates, etc. For a complete list of requests from
the Big Tent Coalition please visit their web site at www.bigtentcoalition.org
Another issue that is of
concern to disability advocates is the fact that over 4,000 Kansans who are now
receiving General Assistance and some receiving MediKan will begin losing all
benefits after 24 months. This was a decision made by the legislature
last year. As of January 1st, about 400 people were to lose benefits
with about 75 more losing benefits each month.
Three consumers filed a
complaint and a Sedgwick County District Court issued a temporary
restraining order, so the Class will not lose the benefits until the trial is
complete. The result to the budget, should the consumers win, is an
additional 1.4 million this fiscal year and an additional $3.1 million for next
year. We'll be keeping an eye on this.
We are also aware that our
friends at Kansans for IDEA Compliance (KIC) are pushing a bill to offer
incentives to schools to provide Positive Behavior Supports, a system
which has had incredible results in many districts.
That's all for now, but as
you know, there are many more issues that will surface. We'll keep you informed
on those we are watching and ask for your support in contacting your
legislators to express you interests in these important topics.
As you are aware, Education
will also be asking for new dollars to deal with funding formula issues.
Their requests should not be in competition with ours, but we should
recognize the importance of services to all citizens, including
children AND those with the greatest needs.
This is an election year and
all state Senators and House members are up for re election. Please pay
attention to how well your Representatives and Senators represent your views.
Thanks for your support.
Gina