Vaccine Priority
Call to Action: Vaccine Priority for New Yorkers With I/DD
Nearly 100,000 New Yorkers with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) supported and served in community-based settings have yet to be placed within a priority vaccination group. In response, The Arc New York has launched a state-wide grassroots campaign, sending the message to all state and federal representatives that all people with I/DD should receive Phase 1 vaccination priority. To add your voice to this important initiative, follow this link, provide your information, and the letter will be sent right to your representative’s email.
In support of our ongoing advocacy on this issue, President Jack Kowalczyk submitted an Op-ed to media outlets throughout the state calling for vaccine prioritization for all New Yorkers with I/DD. The Arc New York also signed on to a joint letter to Governor Cuomo advocating for all individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to be formally prioritized in Phase 1 of New York’s COVID-19 vaccination plan.
Click here to add your name to the letter
New Committees for Developmental Disabilities in NYS Legislature
The New York State Assembly and Senate have introduced new standing committees to oversee bills and laws concerning people with disabilities, the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), and the Justice Center.
Previously, mental health and developmental disabilities were served by a single committee in each house. The leadership of the new committees can be found below, as well as links to their legislative website.
- John Mannion, Chair
- Fred Akshar
- John E. Brooks
- Simcha Felder
- Brad Hoylman
- Mike Martucci
- Roxanne J. Persaud
You can read Senator Mannion’s perspective and motivation for chairing the Developmental Disabilities Committee here.
- Thomas J. Abinanti, Chair
- Khaleel M. Anderson
- Joe Angelino
- Chris Burdick
- Harvey Epstein
- Karen McMahon
- Melissa Miller
- Stefani Zinerman
