MFJ to NYS Legislature: Tie Adult Home Subsidies to Quality Improvements

Legislation introduced in the New York State Legislature would increase subsidies for adult homes that care for people with disabilities and the elderly.  At a recent hearing in Albany, advocates urged lawmakers to tie any increase in subsidies to improvements in the quality of care as well as an increase in residents’ personal needs allowances.  MFJ Attorney Daniel Ross pointed out that a recent study showed that some senior executives of adult homes earned at least $400,000 a year while their homes spent less than $250,000 for meals for residents. Ten of the 18 homes studied expected profits of more than $1 million. “What level of waste in the state’s social safety net is acceptable?” Ross asked. “Is it a penny per dollar of government funding? A dime? A quarter?” Advocates also recommended the development of more supportive housing to enable older adults and people with disabilities to live independently and reduce the need for residential home care.