Raia Declares Victory: OPWDD Funding Restored

Assemblyman Andrew Raia and his colleagues in the Assembly recently voted to restore the $90 million cut that had been levied upon the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). The legislators came to an agreement with Gov. Cuomo last week to fully restore the $90 million that was taken away from non-profit organizations that provide critical, cost-effective services to people with developmental disabilities.

“New York State can only be truly strong if we care for those who need our help the most, and these non-profits provide absolutely vital services in a cost-effective manner,” said Raia. “I swore I would do everything in my power to have these funds restored and, in the end, we prevailed. These families and organizations desperately need this money, and I was proud to see my colleagues finally join me in voting to restore this funding.”

Back in March, Assemblyman Raia implored his colleagues across the aisle to vote with him on an amendment to the budget that would have restored this unfortunate $90 million cut. After hours of debate, only two members of the Majority joined Raia and the Assembly Republicans in voting yes to the reinstatement of funds.

By Barbara Hanna