Across the state, parents of children and adults with disabilities are raising their voices, demanding urgent action from lawmakers to address a growing funding crisis. Many families say they’ve been left behind by a system that’s stretched too thin—waiting months or even years for access to essential services like therapy, in-home care, and education support.
With deep emotional appeals, these parents are testifying at legislative hearings, staging rallies at state capitols, and sharing their stories on social media.
“We are not asking for luxuries,” said Michelle Greene, whose 9-year-old son is on the autism spectrum. “We’re asking for basic human support—so our kids can live with dignity and opportunity.”
Republican Lawmakers Shift Blame to Governor
As pressure builds from advocacy groups and affected families, Republican lawmakers have turned their attention to the governor, accusing the administration of mismanaging funds and failing to prioritize people with disabilities.
During a recent legislative session, several GOP representatives criticized the governor’s proposed state budget, arguing it shortchanges disability programs in favor of other political priorities.
“The administration is playing a dangerous game with people’s lives,” said State Senator Mark Dalton (R), who accused the governor of “diverting funds to pet projects” instead of addressing real needs.
Republicans are calling for greater transparency in how state disability services are allocated, and some have introduced emergency funding measures to bypass the executive branch altogether.
Funding Delays Leave Thousands Without Support
At the heart of the issue lies a backlog of Medicaid waiver applications, which help individuals with disabilities receive in-home care, vocational training, and other services that allow them to live independently. Advocates say thousands remain on waitlists—some for years—despite being deemed eligible.
“I was told my daughter would be approved in six months,” said Jason Ayers, whose 22-year-old daughter has cerebral palsy. “It’s been two and a half years, and we’re still waiting.”
Many families are bearing the burden themselves, dipping into savings or quitting jobs to become full-time caregivers. The lack of reliable state support is forcing some to consider placing loved ones into institutional care—an option they say is neither ideal nor humane.
Advocates Urge Bipartisan Solutions
Nonprofits and disability rights groups are urging lawmakers from both parties to set aside political differences and focus on fixing the system. “We need collaboration, not finger-pointing,” said Maria Lopez, director of Access for All, a statewide advocacy organization.
She noted that disability services are consistently underfunded and often among the first on the chopping block during budget negotiations. “Every year it’s a fight. And every year families suffer while politicians argue,” Lopez said.
In response, advocates are pushing for dedicated disability funding streams, better oversight of waiver waitlists, and increased wages for support professionals, many of whom leave the field due to low pay.
Governor’s Office Responds to GOP Criticism
Governor Elaine Parker’s administration has pushed back against Republican criticism, claiming that the budget does include increased funding for disability services—but that implementation takes time.
In a press statement, the governor’s office said: “We remain committed to improving access for individuals with disabilities, and we’ve proposed significant investments this year. The legislature must work with us, not against us.”
The administration also cited a national shortage of direct support professionals as a factor delaying service delivery. “Without staff, even funded programs can’t operate,” a spokesperson said.
Still, critics argue that promises aren’t enough. “We don’t need press releases—we need action,” said Senator Dalton.
A Crisis That Can’t Wait
As the political back-and-forth continues, families across the state are caught in the middle—many fearing that the help they desperately need may never arrive. The longer the delay, the more damage is done to vulnerable individuals whose lives depend on timely care and resources.
“We are fighting every day,” said Michelle Greene. “But it feels like we’re screaming into the void. Our kids can’t wait for political games to end—they need help now.”
The next legislative budget session could be pivotal in determining whether real solutions will emerge—or if the blame game will continue while families wait.
For further reporting on this crisis and personal stories from affected families, visit Disability Scoop.
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