Richardson to NM Disability Community - Don't bother me

[Traveling_Home]

To: 'ADAPT'
Sent: Friday, July 06, 2007 11:53 AM
Subject: RE: Help us Reach Bill!


HELP US REACH BILL!



The New Mexico Centers for Independent Living Association (NMCILA) is requesting the assistance of disability rights activists throughout the country. As many of you ma be aware Governor Bill Richardson is not implementing the Money Follows the Person Act that was passed unanimously by both houses of the state legislature in 2006.

Stakeholders have met monthly in good faith since the bill was signed in an effort to advise and support the Aging and Long Term Services Department and the Medical Assistance Division in implementing MFP. However, at the group's May meeting. Carolyn Ingram of Medical Assistance Division said that the state will not allow Medicaid money to move to the community services from nursing homes despite the clear intent of the law. Ingram stated that MAD fears increased cost if the law is implemented.

Advocates for individuals with disabilities have appealed to the Governor to reverse the decision noting that ignoring the law will extend time that people are on waiting lists for services. Last week NMCILA held a demonstration in front of Richardson's Presidential Campaign headquarters in Albuquerque and Chanted "Governor Richardson obey the Law!"

"Governor Richardson wants to be President and represent all the people in our country, but can't honor his commitment to New Mexicans with disabilities," said Patricia Ziegler of Farmington and NMCILA. "Maybe he doesn't think our people have rights too!"

Requests for a meeting with the Governor have been ignored; meanwhile the candidate for President continues to use the healthcare programs he has promoted as Governor as a feather in his cap and qualifier for the highest office in our land.

"It's time to hold our elected officials to a higher standard than "signing statements," said Michael Murphy of Alamogordo and NMCILA, "His signature on a piece of legislation should mean what it says!"

Help New Mexicans with disabilities and the disability community in general get answers from Governor Richardson about why he is refusing to implement the law he signed. If Bill is in your area stumping for the Democratic nomination take that opportunity to ask him for us. Why are you refusing to implement MFP as it is intended? If we can get advocates to do this as he traverses the country we may change his mind!

For more information contact Patricia Ziegler, Chair: New Mexico Centers for Independent Living at 505-566-5851



Submitted by;

Kay Wilson

Public Relations and Marketing

San Juan Center for Independence

3535 E 30th St. Ste. 101

Farmington, NM 87402

505-566-5840

[email protected]

[silverojo]

1. Of course he doesn't think disabled people have rights

He only believes Hispanics deserve to have rights.

This news is just one more reason I loathe this bastard. :mad:

K&R!