Hearing in Harrisburg on May 29th, 2012
The Governor's proposal to transfer MH/ID funds to a Human Services Development Fund Block Grant or any similar program that would combine MH/ID appropriations with appropriations for other services also violates the MH/ID Act.
In an effort to preserve critical services for individuals with mental illness and intellectual disabilities, Vision for EQuality, the Mental Health Association in Pennsylvania, The Arc of Pennsylvania, PA Mental Health Consumers Association, National Alliance on Mental Illness of Southwestern PA, Speaking for Ourselves, and the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania are taking legal action to stop the chronic underfunding of services and prevent the devastating impact from the 20 percent funding cut and transfer of funds to the Human Services Development Fund (HSDF) Block Grant in the Governor’s proposed budget. It would also require the Governor and DPW to provide adequate mental health and intellectual disability services to all Pennsylvanians who need them.
The Hearing about the lawsuit is confirmed for 10:00 am on May 29, 2012 at:
Pennsylvania Judicial Center
601 Commonwealth Avenue
Courtroom 3001, Third Floor
Harrisburg, PA
Over 100 families and supporters are expected to fill the room and beyond giving their support to the Petitioners just like they did to those testifying in March before the Human Services Committee.
Last week, the Senate called for 10% cut vs. the 20% cut proposed by the Governor but the Block Grant is still on the agenda. This shows that the Senate is listening, but they did not go far enough as there is no proposed Waiting List Initiative. People will continue to uniting in their determination showing that their children, loved ones and family members are worth every cent.
To read the is the Disability Rights Network of PA Petition click on this link: http://www.drnpa.org/
Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/
