UDW Blasts Gov. Schwarzenegger on ADA Anniversary

by Steve Mehlman

On the 20th anniversary of the passage of the historic Americans with Disabilities Act, the UDW Homecare Providers Union/AFSCME 3930 has sharply criticized Gov. Schwarzenegger for his proposals to slash IHSS and other programs for the disabled.

“As we mark the 20th anniversary of the passage of the groundbreaking Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) this week, California should be leading the way in implementing this historic civil rights breakthrough for people with disabilities,” said Doug Moore, UDW Executive Director.

“We should be working to eliminate barriers in employment, transportation, education and other areas that prevent the disabled from living independently and productively.

“Sadly, thanks to Gov. Schwarzenegger, we are doing just the opposite. Again and again, the governor has proposed cutting or eliminating important programs and services–such as IHSS–that provide people with disabilities with the opportunity to participate productively in their communities.

“His proposals are morally wrong and fiscally counterproductive. What is worse–as the courts have determined over and over again–many of them clearly violate the ADA and other federal and state laws and regulations.

“This week, the governor issued a proclamation recognizing ADA, his first since 2007. Sadly, his words of support do not outweigh his hostile actions.

“UDW will continue to stand with California’s disability community in its fight for equality and opportunity,” Moore said.