On behalf of the family members and advocates of New Yorkers with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), we at the undersigned associations write to urge you to provide additional and meaningful funding from the federal government for the State of New York.

The I/DD system is supported by more than 90 percent Medicaid funding, which provides the essential services that New Yorkers with I/DD rely on. New York has been the hardest hit state in the nation during this pandemic, which has resulted in an almost $15 billion revenue shortfall. As a result, these critical supports and services are in jeopardy. Our families and New Yorkers across the state who depend on these services will be disproportionately impacted without additional federal support.

Those who selflessly provide this critical care need support as well. Like first responders and care workers in hospitals, the direct support professionals who provide round-the-clock care for New Yorkers with I/DD are essential frontline workers who put their own health at risk to serve our families and communities across the states. Their heroic efforts deserve inclusion and the speedy enactment of the Heroes Fund to provide pandemic pay and recruitment incentives.

New York and our country is strong, and we will get through this crisis by continuing to support one another—especially those who are the most vulnerable. The federal government must not abandon Americans with intellectual and developmental disabilities during a pandemic.

Our great state has always been committed to providing essential services for all New Yorkers. We stand with Governor Andrew Cuomo in calling for vital federal aid and ask you to do the same to help New York uphold its responsibility to our loved ones and every resident with intellectual and developmental disabilities.