On behalf of the Consumer Council of Independent Living Services, Sara Storts and Andrea Holmes present a $203.00 check to the American Red Cross of Greater Arkansas.

From Senator Randy Laverty

February 26, 2010

LITTLE ROCK –

The fiscal session went smoothly, but one dark cloud appeared on the horizon – next year’s Medicaid budget. Medicaid subsidizes health care for the elderly, people with disabilities and the poor. It’s administered by the Department of Human Services.

Cuts of as much as $400 million may be needed, unless Medicaid can manage to lower costs. Medicaid spending is growing  by 8 to 10 percent this year because more people are becoming eligible because they have lost their jobs or lost their insurance. Also, the costs of medical care continues to increase dramatically.

Even as the Senate concluded its final day of the fiscal session and lawmakers prepared to go home, individual senators warned of painful cuts they may have to make in future sessions. A reduction in services to people with disabilities would be devastating for their families.

The next regular legislative session will convene in January of 2011. At least 13 members of the Senate will be freshmen because the term limits amendment is forcing that many to retire at the end of the year.

The Sunshine Optimist Club is currently doing a fundraiser project. They are selling chances on a $25.00 gift certificate from Wal Mart. Tickets are $1.00. Please see any sunshine optimist member to purchase your ticket! Contact Chris Smith or Kathy Weatherl if you would like more information. 327-5883

Jackie Fliss was a great finalist for the Nonprofit  Executive of the Year Award. We’re all so very proud of her. We all had anexcellent time at the Arkansas Business of the Year Awards. Congratulations to Kathy Findley of SafePlaces!