Assemblywoman Marjorie Byrnes (R,C- Caledonia) has called on the governor to restore funding to the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), a statewide Medicaid program that provides alternative home-care services that allows consumers personalized care. This year, Gov. Cuomo announced in his 2019-20 Executive Budget his intention to cut $75 million from this program which would be devastating to seniors and those with disabilities. On Monday, Assemblywoman Missy Miller (R,C,I-Atlantic Beach) held a press conference calling for this initiative to be saved with Angela’s House Founder Bob Policastro, Disability Rights Advocate Douglas King, and members of the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Association of New York State.

“This program is a valuable resource to many families with seniors or disabled individuals who cannot care for themselves independently. These cuts will eliminate their ability to choose their own aides, managing their aides' schedules, and deciding their hours and pay,” said Byrnes. “We already have a lack of skilled professionals in this field, and by limiting relatives and loved ones from becoming caretakers, we will experience a loss of jobs and a lack of services for at-home assistance. Not only do I urge the governor to restore this funding, I strongly encourage him to increase our state investment. I applaud Assemblywoman Missy Miller for her efforts and advocacy.”