Message from Green Mountain Self-Advocates:

-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:15 AM

Subject: Action Alert!!!

We all know we are facing budget problems in Vermont.

There is something you can do to help.

Please call:

Senators Leahy 	1-800-642-3193
Senator Sanders  1-800-339-9834
Representative Welch  1-888-605-7270

TODAY if possible or as soon as you can.

Tell them to vote for increasing the federal match money for Medicaid.
Tell them how you need you services and why they are important.

So here is what that means...

Some of money for your services comes from the state (down in
Montpelier) and some comes from the federal government (down in
Washington DC). We need more money from Washington DC to stop the budget
cuts.


Here are more details but it may be hard to understand.

Call Your Senators TODAY to Include Medicaid Relief in the Economic
Stimulus Package
Summary:

Most states are facing severe budget shortfalls. As budgets shrink, many
states have begun cutting their Medicaid programs which are a lifeline
for people with disabilities.

The disability community and other Medicaid stakeholders are seeking
help for states and local governments included in the economic stimulus
package in the form of an increase in the Medicaid Federal Medical
Assistance Percentage (FMAP). FMAP is the federal government's share of
Medicaid spending. The current FMAP formula does not reflect the current
economic downturn and corresponding state budget crises.

Senate Democrats introduced a $100.3 billion economic stimulus bill (S.
3689) yesterday. This bill includes:

*        $37.8 billion for state Medicaid programs (8%)

*        $1 billion increase for NIH

*        $25 billion in loans for automakers

*        $700 million in grants for public-housing agencies

*        $13 billion for infrastructure projects including bridge
construction and highway repair.

Republicans are expected to oppose considering the bill before January
when Democrats plan to push a more expansive plan. The Senate plans to
vote on the economic stimulus bill this week. The House will vote on the
economic stimulus bill if the Senate passes it first.

Action Needed:

You can also call the Capitol Switchboard and ask to speak to your
Senators at 1-800-473-6711.   Urge them to include Medicaid relief in
the
Stimulus package.




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