Governor’s Forecast “Sunny” for Georgians? Not For All of Them

Press Release 1/26/06


Gov. Sonny Perdue last week presented his vision for Georgia -- spelled out in dollars and cents to the General Assembly and voters -- in his State of the State address. In his words, the State of the State is “Sunny,” as Georgia has seen higher than expected tax revenues totaling an extra $1.25 billion for this year, and $2 billion over the last two years.

While the disability community is grateful to the Governor for the 925 new services allotted for people with disabilities in last year’s budget, this year’s outlook does not appear even partly sunny. The warmth of that new $1.25 billion dollars does not match the true need of a fast-growing segment of Georgia’s population: individuals with physical and developmental disabilities.

These Georgians – many of whom need assistance with everyday tasks such as shopping, transportation and caring for their children – face a very dark forecast indeed, thanks to a state government poised to take three steps back when it comes to disability issues.

To understand our state of the state, it’s important to know that more than 6,400 individuals in Georgia are on waiting lists for desperately needed services. We can expect to see this list to continue to grow by more than 1,100 new people each year -- as it did last year. This year, the not-so-sunny budget calls to open up 750 slots on the waiting lists, half of the 1,500 new slots recommended by the Unlock the Waiting Lists Campaign. This proposed budget puts does not match the critical needs for these individuals.

In reality, these 750 slots recommended by the governor are dramatically fewer than last year’s 925. Because many individuals need more than one service, it means that we are reducing the waiting lists by only around 500 people. This commitment has left many families confused and disappointed, particularly given that the economy is growing so strongly. This issue enjoys legislative champions from both sides, and these families are looking for this leadership to give them hope -- despite politics.

While it’s great that Georgia is booming, Georgia isn’t benefiting from the boom when families struggling the most don’t share in the proceeds from this positive economic forecast. Not only are these families left behind, they are being pushed deeper into the shadows; with many feeling forgotten and forsaken. We know that the Governor understands and cares for people with disabilities, but this budget proposal feel incomplete...we worry that this budget leaves many behind. For families struggling with disabilities, it’s about services that can mean the difference between life and death for their loved ones – people who are your fellow Georgians, too.
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