Supplemental Budget Action Needed Now!

September 01, 2011

For many months, JDI has been working with our public health advocacy partners to find a way to replace the likely disappearing federal PHHSBG (Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant) funding. Our advocacy has paid off and Governor Patrick's proposed Supplemental Budget includes sufficient additional funds for DPH that the PHHSBG portion of the RCC contracts should be protected! This is GREAT news given the threatened loss of federal funds that is reflected in current RCC contracts! 

JDI will continue to work at the federal level with our coalition and other national partners to retain the PHHSBG. In the meantime the Supplemental Budget can reduce much of the risk to these programs.

The Supplemental Budget Bill still needs to pass the House and Senate (like all bills), so now is the time for us to advocate. The bill will first be discussed in Ways and Means committees and then to the full House and Senate floors.  

Please contact ALL legislators (with an emphasis on House and Senate Ways and Means Members: http://www.malegislature.gov/Committees/Joint/J39 ) and ask them to preserve the $2.3 million proposed in the Governor’s Supplemental Budget Bill under 4510-0100 for Rape Crisis Centers and other public health services.

Let them know that a major intent of this supplemental budget is to protect RCC contracts from drastic cuts happening at the federal level.  When legislators hear from you - their constituents - it makes a difference. 

Here's what you can say:

·         The Governor’s supplemental budget bill filed on 8/25/11 allocates $2.3 million dollars to restore cuts to an array of critical public health services in the Commonwealth, including crucial funds for rape crisis centers.

·         Without this supplement, critical local sexual violence services for victims and survivors will be lost.

·         Thank the MA Legislature for being sensitive to the needs of survivors during this difficult economic time. Ask that they once again recognize that funding these programs is an investment that saves the Commonwealth far more than it costs.

·         Tell of the specific reason why you support this funding - what it means to your community, your family, and you. 

Thank you for all you do—your advocacy is essential!