IMPORTANT! Governor Reverses Cuts, But It is Not Over

[Guest guest]

Great news. Governor announced that he is reversing the cuts made on April 1st, because the House and Senate agreed to fund the deficit for the rest of this year. While this is good, we need to continue the rallies and calling of legislators because there is still a shortfall of at least $50 million for next year.

You need to call and thank the Governor, Senate President Haridopolos and Speaker Cannon for making sure that vital services were not affected for our children and adults on the Med Waiver. BUT, we also need to stress that they need to fully fund next year's budget to avoid being in the same situation again.

Again, thank them for their support and helping out the most vulnerable in our society, but they must correct next year's budget.

Sent: Thu Apr 14 17:21:06 2011

Subject: GOVERNOR RICK SCOTT LIFTS EMERGENCY RULE FOR APD

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: LANE WRIGHT

APRIL 14, 2011

GOVERNOR RICK SCOTT LIFTS

EMERGENCY RULE FOR APD

Reaches deal with House and Senate to release funds for services

Tallahassee, Fla. – Governor Rick 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 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.â€

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 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 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.

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Regards,

Ven Sequenzia

President

Autism Society of America

State of Florida Chapter