Florida Budget Cuts Target Disability Programs

Lawmakers in Florida are proposing $150-200 million in budget cuts to the state’s $800 million Medicare voucher program for the developmentally disabled. If the cuts are approved, thousands of Floridians with autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome would be affected.

Opponents fear the cuts could tear families apart by forcing patients who receive home care into institutions. To protest the cuts, a crowd of more than 600 disabled people and their families gathered at the state’s Capitol last week armed with umbrellas asking the state to dip into its “rainy day” funds to help keep programs for the disabled afloat.

Governor Charlie Christ said he wants to continue funding the program but failed to make any real promises at the rally.

“We are committed to helping you as much as we can,” Christ said.

State representatives are currently negotiating a compromise.

If your child has cerebral palsy that resulted from medical negligence, you may be eligible for compensation to help cover medical and treatment costs. Contact a cerebral palsy attorney to learn more about your legal options.