GREAT NEWS-- In the new Economic Stimulus Package, a substantial amount of the new spending will protect and expand disability services. Among the most critical increases to disability programs are:
- $500 million for the Vocational Rehabilitation State Grant program
- $87 billion for an increased federal Medicaid match (FMAP)
- $13 billion for IDEA State Grants
- $600 million for IDEA Early Intervention
- A one time $450 (individuals)/$630 (couples) payment to all SSI recipients($4.2 billion total)
- $900 million to improve the Social Security Administration claims processand computerization upgrades
- $6.5 billion for several low income housing initiatives
A more complete summary of disability related provisions can be found at:http://www.thearc.org/NetCommunity/Document.Doc?id=1464
