Editor’s Note:  Please sign this petition co-sponsored by the New York State Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the New York Physical Therapy Association, and the New York State Occupational Therapy Association – YOU DO NOT NEED TO LIVE IN NY TO SIGN!
[Source:  Change.org]
Infants & Toddlers with disabilities need your help before it is too late!
As of April, 2013, NY State made significant administrative changes to the Early Intervention Program making it extremely difficult for children born with developmental delays to continue to receive much-needed therapies that can compensate for their issues, allowing them to thrive and grow to their full potential.
Research has proven that the potential for change in a child’s nervous system within the first three years of life is greater than at any other time in development. Many developmental issues can be resolved with early therapy, resulting in children entering kindergarten with minimal or no need for extra support and eventually becoming contributing members of our adult workforce. Research has also proven that for every $1 spent on early intervention, $7 to $17 is saved in the future!
Passing proposed legislation, S6002/A8316, will assure that infants and toddlers with developmental issues continue to receive critical services from experienced providers in a timely manner. Specially trained pediatric speech-language pathologists, physical and occupational therapists, and special educators will be able to provide services free from the administrative chaos that is currently crippling the Early Intervention Program and forcing providers to leave. Half(49.5%) of the 96 surveyed agencies indicated that they are planning to reduce or close their EI programs.
Join us in requesting that our state Senators, Assembly Members and our Governor do what’s right for children by voting YES to pass bills S6002/A8316 without delay! Our state can once again be proud of the NYS Early Intervention program.
The most vulnerable of our youngsters need your help now. Please sign and share with everyone you know that cares about children.
New York State Speech-Language-Hearing Association
New York Physical Therapy Association
New York State Occupational Therapy Association
Please sign this Petition on Change.org