Access to Independence of Cortland County Calls on Governor, State to Increase Funding For Independent Living Services

Access to Independence (ATI) of Cortland County says they were in Albany Monday calling for Governor Kathy Hochul and the State Legislature to restore funding in the 2027 State Budget for Independent Living, which they say is critical to make meaningful investments in community-based services. The organization says the investments are essential to ensure residents in the state with disabilities may live independently, remain in their communities, and access the support they need to thrive.

The proposed Executive Budget released earlier this year by Governor Hochul did not include restoring $750,000 added by the state legislature for Independent Living Centers (ILCs). ILCs throughout the state provide no cost, consumer controlled services for thousands of New Yorkers with disabilities each year, ATI says. The proposed Executive Budget leaves out ILCs of the 1.7% targeted inflationary increase, also known as COLA, which is provided to other human services organizations. ATI has urged the state to increase base funding for the state-wide network of ILCs to $25 million due to years of being underfunded.

“For decades, Independent Living Centers have saved the State millions by helping people avoid institutionalization and unnecessary Medicaid expenditures,” said Alexandra Mikowski, Executive Director of Access To Independence of Cortland County. “We’re asking the State to invest in what works: community-based services that keep people independent, employed, and at home.”

Mikowski listed several key budget priorities for 2026 including restoring and increasing independent living funding. According to Mikowski, ILCs are funded at $16 million in the Executive Budget—far below what is needed to sustain services statewide. Other priorities include investing in community-based Medicaid services, reverse cuts to the Access to Home Program, and ensure accessibility in autonomous vehicle expansion.