This week, Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) urged fellow lawmakers to fully fund mental health support housing in this year’s state budget along with providing a living wage to direct-care workers who administer care to much of the disabled community throughout New York State. The final state budget is due April 1.

“It is critical that mental health support housing funds aren’t shortchanged because homelessness has been an issue plaguing those with mental health issues and further complicates their safety and supervision,” McDonough said during a press conference co-chaired by Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther and Assemblywoman Melissa Miller. “This funding will not only provide housing, but increase the likelihood of finding employment and having foundational support.”

“In addition, direct-care workers must have a living wage so that they can continue serving our communities and providing care to New Yorkers living with disabilities across our state,” McDonough continued. “I have long been an advocate for these issues, and I will continue working with my Minority and Majority colleagues to include funding for these items in the upcoming state budget.”