Advocacy Priorities & Legislative Change Content

Advocacy at BRIDGES

BRIDGES advances disability rights through systems advocacy, community organizing, and direct civic engagement, in alignment with the Independent Living philosophy. We advocate as part of the Independent Living network across New York State, in partnership with the New York Association on Independent Living (NYAIL). Learn more about NYAIL and the Independent Living movement.

BRIDGES’ advocacy focuses on community inclusion by removing structural barriers that limit independence for people with disabilities in housing, healthcare, transportation, and other areas of community life. Each year, BRIDGES participates in coordinated advocacy efforts that align with statewide legislative priorities while addressing the real-world needs of people with disabilities in Rockland County and beyond.

Our Current New York State Budget & Legislative Priorities

1

Capital Funding for a New BRIDGES Facility

  • BRIDGES needs capital funding to relocate to a more accessible location, renovate office space, and acquire equipment and technology necessary to expand services throughout the region.
  • Funding is also needed to support youth services and operation of the Sensory Room at Palisades Center Mall in West Nyack.
Learn More About the Sensory Room →
2

Protect and Maintain Funding for ILCs

  • BRIDGES requests restoration of the $750,000 received in SFY 24/25 and supports an additional $8.25 million statewide investment for Centers for Independent Living.
  • These services help people remain in their communities and avoid institutional settings, generating substantial savings for New York State.
  • BRIDGES also requests inclusion in the annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for human services industries.
3

Protect & Expand Access to Home Funding

  • BRIDGES administers Access to Home for Medicaid and Access to Home for Heroes grants across Rockland, Westchester, and Orange Counties.
  • These programs provide up to $25,000 per household for accessibility modifications including ramps, stairlifts, transfer lifts, and accessible bathrooms.
  • The Governor’s proposed budget would reduce Access to Home funding statewide.
Learn More About Access to Home →
4

PPL Transparency & Accountability

BRIDGES supports legislation requiring greater program and cost transparency from PPL to ensure home care services remain responsive, efficient, and accessible for New Yorkers who rely on them.

Legislation: S.9142