The 2013 - 2014 final budget in New York State was successful in that it was the State’s third successive on time budget, however the budget itself was an absolute failure in one respect; it didn’t protect New York’s most vulnerable individuals. The Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) was overwhelmed by an unfair and poorly conceived $90 million reduction in their general operating budget. This significant cut was placed primarily on the not-for-profit partners of this agency, which already struggle to manage their obligations with limited resources.

Through its partnerships with these non-profit organizations, OPWDD helps New Yorker’s with varying degrees of disabilities lead fulfilling and productive lives. The agency provides everything from housing and support services to job training and family counseling. These services are absolutely vital to these New Yorkers, their families, and every taxpayer who is saving money by maintaining a good quality of life for these individuals.

Providing this support requires determination on the part of all policy makers, especially when we are consistently facing budget deficits, and fiscal responsibility and prudence are vital. What occurred during this year’s budget negotiations is exactly the type of policy making that New York State cannot afford. By imposing a huge cut on our most vulnerable citizens, we achieved two absolutely unacceptable outcomes. First, we failed to take care of our neighbors who are most in need of help. Second, we fell into the dangerous trap of short term thinking in solving this year’s budget crisis by creating a bigger financial problem for ourselves in every future year.

The end of this legislative session did bring hope to those that rely on the services provided through OPWDD, and all New Yorkers, as both houses of the Legislature passed a bill restoring the $90 million to OPWDD’s operating budget. Once signed by Governor Cuomo, this allocation will make funds available “for the purpose of providing additional services and expenses for community programs for people with developmental disabilities.” It also sets the precedent that New Yorkers will not allow the most vulnerable members of society to become victims of senseless and unjustifiable budgetary cuts.

The leaders in the fight for this budgetary restoration, including Assembly Members Harvey Weisenberg, Felix Ortiz, Speaker Silver, and thousands of New Yorkers including families and advocates deserve to be commended for their resolve and work on this issue. However, if this year’s session is to be considered a true success on this subject, then we must collectively acknowledge our initial mistake, learn from it, and never repeat it.