Long Island disability advocates protest cuts to New York State’s CDPAP program for family caregivers amid concerns over lack of support and potential fraud under Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed budget.

Disability advocates gathered on Long Island yesterday to protest proposed modifications to New York State’s Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), a Medicaid-funded scheme that permits family members to be compensated as caregivers for individuals with disabilities. Governor Kathy Hochul has announced plans to decrease the number of fiscal intermediaries, who facilitate services under CDPAP, but advocates argue these “middlemen” have spent years assisting families in need. The governor’s proposed budget would limit the program’s intermediary agencies from roughly 600 statewide to just one. Local and state officials condemned Hochul for what they termed a cruel policy decision that places additional strain on family caregivers who may not be equipped or trained enough to find their own services for loved ones with disabilities. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito expressed his concern, stating: “She should focus her attention instead of reckless and loaded bureaucracy all across New York State under her failed leadership”. According to a spokesperson from Hochul’s administration though, there would be no compromise between CDPAP members’ services as it only pertains the streamlining process in order to put an end to wasteful practices such as fraud. Advocates criticize the initiative arguing that it doesn’t fully accommodate for people requiring different types of care and support. Councilwoman Missy Miller from Hempstead also expressed her reservations, stating: “The governor does not understand what these policy changes are doing to our population”.