Historic agreement promises better future for developmental disabilities, mental health services

ALBANY, NY (06/19/2014)(readMedia)-- An agreement between the governor and the legislature to ensure better mental health and developmental disabilities services, including a future role for state employees who deliver them, is a welcome outcome as the legislative session draws to a close.

The agreement represents a firm commitment to ensure reinvestment in appropriate services prior to any reconfiguration. It also affirms the importance of state services and the value of utilizing dedicated and experienced state employees to meet critical needs.

CSEA has long argued that it is unacceptable for New York state to simply close facilities and downsize the state work force while failing to address severe gaps in services or help people in dire need who often become the burden of local taxpayers.

The agreement was brokered by Sen. Thomas Libous and Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo with the governor's office following the Senate's passage of the Freeze Unsafe Closures Now (FUCN) Act. The act was headed toward passage in the Assembly as well, when talks were convened to address broader objectives.

CSEA believes the agreement is a reasonable and responsible alternative that will help improve services in the short run and provide a framework to develop a long term plan that will be in the best interests of all New Yorkers, especially those with developmental disabilities and individuals and families struggling with mental illness.

"New York's mental health and developmental disabilities policies, priorities and access to care all require serious improvement," said CSEA President Danny Donohue. "This agreement settles any debate about how we should move forward to address needs and recognizes that it is essential that state services have a role in a better tomorrow."

The CSEA leader commended Libous and Lupardo and other members of the legislature for their outstanding focus and determination to achieve a better result.

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