Yesterday, The Arc New York submitted formal comments to OPWDD on the SIPs-PL Draft Document, which contains the requirements for the creation of specialized Managed Care Plans. We recognize the state's intention to move the field to managed care system. The Arc New York supports this vision and will continue to partner with the state to forward that transformation effectively. For that partnership and the transformation to managed care to be successful, two commitments from the state are absolutely essential. One, Managed Care Organizations must be provider-led and person-centered. Two, the funding to support the establishment of a managed care infrastructure and the ongoing administration of a managed care system must not come from the existing operating budgets of I/DD providers. Read the full comments here.

The Arc New York Comments on Proposed HCBS Waiver Amendments
Today, The Arc New York submitted comments to OPWDD in opposition to the proposed amendments to the 1915 (c) Comprehensive Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waiver, which would eliminate funding for vacancies, cut funding in half for therapeutic leave days, cap therapeutic leave days at 96 days annually, and halve funding for retainer days when individuals are hospitalized or in another long-term care facility funded by Medicaid. The proposed changes would result in an estimated $200 million in cuts to the system, discourage home visitation with families and disincentivize residential opportunities for people with complex health conditions. We continue to advocate aggressively against these cuts with state leaders.

Call to Action: Oppose OPWDD Cuts Now!
We encourage families, staff, self-advocates and community members to add their voice to the fight against the proposed OPWDD cuts. You can use our online advocacy platform to send letters to Governor Cuomo and OPWDD opposing the cuts with one click. 

The Arc New York family has already sent 6,500 letters to state leaders. The public comment period ends July 1. Make sure they hear from you!

A template letter, talking points and advocacy tips are also available for download in PDF and word formats. Please share these advocacy resources widely with your Chapter community. It's critical that we  mobilize family and community advocates to support individuals with developmental disabilities and the providers who support them.