Letter to Rhode Island House of Representatives

Dear Representative:

I am writing to voice my concerns about the proposed budget cuts to the developmentally disabled services. As you know, the Governor has directed that all State Departments reduce their spending by 2.7%. In the Department of Mental Health, Retardation and Hospitals, this budget cut would reduce the money needed for developmentally disabled services by $5.6 million a year. These cuts would compromise the quality of care that the individuals need and truly deserve.

I currently work for Perspectives Corporation. We support over 400 individuals with varying degrees of developmental disabilities. I work as a behavior specialist, providing early intervention therapy to young children diagnosed with autism. I witness first hand the affects of this developmental disability on both the children and their families. Through my work, I am able to observe the growth and immense progress that these children make on a day to day basis.

Not including the many other organizations in the state that provide similar services, this budget cut would equal $220,000 per month for Perspectives Corporation alone. There are numerous ramifications on the individuals and the company if this cut is allowed. There would be less staffing and therapeutic services for the disabled, creating potential safety issues for both the individuals and the community. Along with this, there would be an inevitable reduction in choices for those seeking services. These children and adults with developmental disabilities are already so limited. Why limit them even more by taking away a therapy that helps them progress so immensely?

Through research it has been proven that the affects of autism can be greatly improved upon in time with treatment such as early intervention services and other therapeutic services. This therapy is extremely important for the growth of these individuals. It allows them the opportunity to reduce their autistic symptoms, while also allowing them to keep their sense of self. Those with autism can grow and live healthy lives. It gives children the opportunity to actually be mainstreamed into a public school system and adults the opportunity to become active community members.

If you support this budget cut, so many people will be denied the opportunity for a better future. I am asking for your help. The health and safety of the people we support is at risk if Perspectives is forced to absorb more cuts. We need your help in preserving services for the developmentally disabled.