The state budget passed by the state Legislature and signed by the Governor this week includes important investments in the direct care workforce fund in Family Care and in personal care services, but leaves out other essential supports for people with disabilities and their families.

Disability advocates had been hoping for increased funding for family caregiver supports, meaningful improvements for all direct care workers and increases in special education funding. Despite a state surplus and the dire needs of people with disabilities post-pandemic, the budget does not include these things. See the comparison chart from the Survival Coalition that outlines what advocates had hoped for and what ultimately passed.

Let your state representative know how you feel about the budget and what you expect of them. Contact your state legislator. Who Are My Legislators?

Did you know that every year in August members or Congress head back to their home states to listen to their constituents? It's called August Recess!

This is an important time for advocates to share stories and concerns with Members of Congress and to talk to them about legislation that is moving. Here are some points you can use:

• Make improvements to the Social Security Income (SSI) program

• Increase funding for Home and Community-Based Services

• Support Family Caregivers with Paid Leave

• Improve Special Education

Follow your Congressional reps on social media and contact their offices to find out when and where you can meet them in August. http://www.tweetcongress.org/tweeters/WI