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Last week saw Keep the Promise rallies to save Lanterman Act services and fund the direct support workforce for Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) throughout the state. The Sacramento rally on Wednesday, April 3 was a rousing success with crowds estimated between 1,500 – 2,000. Several rallies took place on Friday, April 5th which we will cover in greater detail in next week’s Monday Morning Memo. These rallies play a key role in convincing lawmakers and the public to support the I/DD community.
Members of the press covered the Capitol rally, helping spread our message to the broader community. You can watch local NBC affiliate KCRA coverage below:
The following legislators came out to the Capitol steps to sign their names to the budget request letter, pledging their support for an 8% increase in funding to Lanterman Act services and supports for people with I/DD.
Senate Request Author: Senator Henry Stern, District 27
Senator Andreas Borgeas, District 8
Senator Shannon Grove, District 16
Senator Mike Morrell, District 23
Senator Jeff Stone, District 28
Senator John Moorlach, District 37
Assembly Request Co-Author: Assemblymember Jim Frazier, District 11
Assembly Request Co-Author: Assemblymember Chris Holden, District 41
Assemblymember Brian Dahle, District 1
Assemblymember Heath Flora, District 12
Assemblymember Devon Mathis, District 26
Assemblymember Tom Lackey, District 36
Assemblymember Christy Smith, District 38
Assemblymember Marie Waldron, District 75
The rallies, media attention, and legislators who support the 8% budget request represent a good start. However, we would like to see the signatures of every Senator and Assemblymember added to the budget request letter. There is still time for you to take action. Visit thelantermancoalition.org and click the “Take Action” button to write to your state representatives telling them why they must sign on to the letter and #KeepThePromise to Californians with I/DD.
Christian McMahon, Communications Specialist, The Arc of California