Today, Assemblyman Doug Smith (5^th Assembly District) joined Assemblywoman Melissa “Missy” Miller (R,C, I-Atlantic Beach) at a press conference where she addressed Gov. Cuomo’s proposed $75 million cut to the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP). The  statewide Medicaid program that was originally started in New York and allows individuals and families the option to choose personal assistants who meet exact needs and will work not just with their loved ones, but together to create a healthy lifestyle. 

“I know our governor can find the money in his budget to better fund this program, instead of ignoring the problem and cutting it. We need to protect our states most vulnerable, and I will never stop fighting for my community and the families who need better care,” Smith said.

“The cuts and restructuring being proposed by our governor are not only appalling but catastrophic. Not only do individuals with disabilities rely on CDPAP, but senior citizens also use this program to allow them to be out in the community and limit the amount of time their families sacrifice from their workday or school day to care for them,” Smith said.

Smith continues to be an advocate for the disabled community. In 2018, Smith worked with lawmakers to create a bill called Todd’s Law that will punish heartless thieves who steal vital medical equipment from individuals and families with disabilities. Advocates for the disabled say increased penalties are needed because the value of medical equipment cannot only be measured by dollars and cents.

“Our government and our state cannot continue to ignore the disabled population any longer and today’s conference reiterated this message to everyone,” Smith said.

If you would like to voice your concern over the proposed cuts to CDPAP and how this will affect you or your family, please call or email Smith at smithd@nyassembly.gov or by phone at (631) 585-0230.