A Visit from Assemblymember Dante Acosta to UCPLA’s Chatsworth Campus
Assemblymember Dante Acosta (District 38) recently visited UCPLA’s Chatsworth campus to see firsthand the way our programs impact the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as the vital role our staff plays in this programming. UCPLA was especially gratified to host Assemblymember Acosta, as he was the first Assemblymember to support the vital Assembly Bill 279 (AB279) after its introduction into the California State Assembly by Assemblymember Chris Holden.
AB279 is an important bill that helps protect services for Californians with developmental disabilities by allowing Regional Centers and the Department of Developmental Services to adjust the reimbursement rates for service providers at a level on par with the local minimum wage. Advocates and self-advocates have been working alongside service providers like UCPLA to ensure the passage of this bill, which recently passed the Assembly and his moving through the State Senate.
We invite you to join Assemblymembers Holden and Acosta in supporting AB279 as it makes its way through the State Senate by writing letters and making phone calls to lawmakers in order to share the impact AB279 would have on your life and the lives of your loved ones.
One important person to contact today is Senator Ricardo Lara, Chair of the Appropriations Senate Committee, in order to urge him to move AB279 forward. Click here for phone numbers and sample phone script.
You can also personalize and fax one of two sample letters below:
Click here for a letter from an individual receiving services.
Here is Senator Lara’s contact information (which is also included in the sample letters):
Honorable Senator Ricardo Lara
State Capitol, Room 5050
Sacramento, CA 95814
Office: (916) 651-4033
Fax: (916) 651-4933
UCPLA is grateful for the chance to continue building relationships with elected officials and community members who make it a priority to support the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who live in our communities. Thank you for your ongoing support of AB279 and its efforts to enable UCPLA and our fellow providers to continue serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities within our communities.