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Advocacy
Advocate Now -- Let Your Voice Be Heard
Matrix is committed to providing you with the necessary information, education, and encouragement to allow you to be the strongest advocate on behalf of your child. Learn the facts, get involved, and let your voice be heard!
STATE BUDGET:
California again faced a difficult year in developing a state budget for 2011-12. Below you will find links to information on some of the more significant cuts or changes that impact people with disabilities. Many agencies are still determining how they will implement these reductions. Check back with us for updates as the year progresses.
Mental health services that are part of a student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) will no longer be the responsibility of County or Community Mental Health Departments. Schools will now determine and ensure that appropriate services are delivered (see article here).
Substantial reductions have been made to the budgets of the Regional Centers which serve individuals with developmental disabilities. These reductions are in addition to cuts and limits on services imposed over the past two years. For an easy- to-understand summary of changes impacting people with developmental disabilities, see the Governor’s Budget Highlights available from the Department of Developmental Services.
Information on the Lanterman Act, which is the law behind regional center services, can be found at Keeping the Lanterman Promise.
Disability Rights California provides ongoing updates on how services are impacted by legislative changes.
The California Budget Project has information on how California’s budget impacts low- and middle-income Californians.
Family Voices of California has information for families with children with special healthcare needs.
The Arc California has weekly updates on legislation available through their Monday Morning Memo e-newsletter.
The California Department of Education, Special Education Division, has announcements and hot topics available on their website.
GETTING INVOLVED:
Remember that you have the ability and responsibility to let our representatives and elected officials know how you feel about changes
that impact your family and your child. For tips on how to effectively communicate your concerns see the useful handout,
Practice Democracy.
Names and addresses of your state and federal legislators.
For more information on what you can do click here.
