Last evening, the Legislalture moved to fill a $174 million deficit in APD's budget. As a result, Governor Scott has agreed to rescind cuts to payments to providers that serve a critical role in supporting Floridians with disabilities and their families.
This is a very positive development for Florida's families, and it's important to let policy makers know that they've done the right thing. Our friend Susan Goldstein has created a simple form on her site, FFDD News, so families can send a messag to the Governor and Legislators. Please take a moment to visit http://www.ffddnews.com/contact-your-legislator.php and share your thoughts with our state's policy makers.
If you would like to know a little bit more about the situation and the resolution that was reached last night, check out the Governor's press release below.
Yours,
The Family Cafe
Providers To Get Full Rates Restored,
At Least For The Moment
GOVERNOR RICK SCOTT LIFTS EMERGENCY RULE FOR APD
Reaches deal with House and Senate to release funds for services
Tallahassee, Fla. – Governor Rick Scott today announced an agreement with the House and Senate that would provide an infusion of cash that will prevent the Agency for Persons with Disabilities from discontinuing services.
“I thank Senate President Mike Haridopolos and House Speaker Dean Cannon for joining me to protect the community APD serves, and I applaud the hard work of the staff at APD for finding a solution to this problem,” Governor Scott stated. “After years of deficit spending that put these services at risk, I’m glad that we’re taking steps to finally bring responsible financial management to this agency and the people they serve.”
After an Inspector General report disclosed that the agency would likely run out of cash to pay for needed services in early May due to an unprecedented $174 million budget shortfall, Governor Scott issued an emergency order stretching funds through the end of the fiscal year to avoid any cutoff of services.
The Governor’s Office worked closely with the Legislature to find a way to provide immediate funding so that the Emergency Order could be lifted and to find a long term solution to the problem. Governor Scott also continues to work with the Legislature and members of the disability community to develop strategies to prevent future shortfalls in APD's budget.
Today’s deal lifts a hold on approximately $30 million that will cover the agency’s provider costs through the end of the fiscal year.
From: Governor's Press Office
1332 N. Duval St.
Tallahassee, FL 32303
United States
Tallahassee, FL 32303
United States
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