Representatives from organizations across Suffolk County gathered alongside Giglio, who serves as the ranking member of the Assembly Committee on People with Disabilities, to highlight ongoing challenges and press lawmakers for action.
“Protecting our friends and neighbors who are among the most vulnerable is something all lawmakers in Albany should strongly rally around,” Giglio said.
“A final state budget should prioritize funding and policies that recognize the unique challenges our communities face.”
Giglio emphasized that nearly 70% of New Yorkers with developmental disabilities live in community settings, underscoring the need for expanded local services.
“Nearly 70% of people with developmental disabilities in New York live in the community, in our neighborhoods, schools and workplaces,” she said.
“That means our policies must focus on strong community support, housing opportunities and care coordination so individuals can live full, independent lives.”
She also pointed to recent progress in state budget proposals driven by advocacy from families and service providers.
“Because of the advocacy of families and organizations across the state, the Assembly and Senate budget proposals have increased the targeted inflationary adjustment for providers to 4%,” Giglio said. “That is an important step forward, but our work is not finished.”
Giglio added that continued investment is needed to strengthen the workforce and ensure families can access services without unnecessary barriers.
She said she will continue working with colleagues to secure additional funding and improve support systems statewide. Organizers said the rally reflected growing momentum among advocates seeking long term investment in disability services across Long Island and beyond.