03/27/2026
Standing with our network of Independent Living Centers around the State to request fully funding the work we each do in our regions across New York.
The New York Association on Independent Living (NYAIL) is calling on Governor Kathy Hochul and the Legislature to fully fund New York’s network of 41 Independent Living Centers (ILCs) at $25 million in the FY2027 Budget. With the federal government approving New York’s transition of the Essential Plan, the State now has $2.5 billion in freed-up funding—making this a critical moment to finally address more than a decade of chronic underfunding.
Both the Senate and Assembly have already shown strong support by including additional ILC funding in their one-house budgets. Now, State leaders must build on that momentum and ensure full funding in the enacted budget.
“Independent Living Centers have been underfunded for years, with only $16.75 million currently allocated,” said Lindsay Miller, NYAIL Executive Director. “Using a small portion of the Essential Plan savings to raise funding to $25 million will give every center the base support needed to help disabled New Yorkers access community-based services, transition out of nursing homes, secure accessible housing, build independent living skills, and advance systemic advocacy.”
New York’s only disability-led, statewide network of cross-disability service providers deserves stable, sustainable funding. Let’s make it happen this year.
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