More than two dozen New York clergy members are calling on the state to halt plans to overhaul the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), citing concerns about its potential impact on vulnerable populations.
In a letter addressed to New York State Health Commissioner James V. McDonald, faith leaders expressed alarm over a proposal to transfer administrative responsibilities for CDPAP to Public Partnerships LLC (PPL). The program, which allows individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses to hire and manage their own caregivers, is considered a lifeline for more than 250,000 New Yorkers.
Clergy members highlighted PPL’s history of administrative failures in similar programs nationwide, including delayed payments, inadequate customer support, and technological issues. They warned that these problems could disproportionately harm low-income individuals, communities of color, and immigrants who already face systemic barriers to care.
“The rushed, opaque nature of transitioning administrative responsibilities to PPL threatens to dismantle a vital lifeline for many New Yorkers,” the letter states, calling for a transparent and collaborative approach to any reforms.
The faith leaders also criticized the lack of community engagement, noting that advocates and families have voiced opposition for months but have been ignored. They urged state leaders to listen to affected communities and ensure that any changes strengthen, rather than weaken, CDPAP’s capacity to serve those in need.
The letter arrives as Governor Kathy Hochul prepares to deliver the State of the State Address, providing an opportunity to address the concerns raised by advocates. The clergy emphasized the moral imperative to protect vulnerable populations, describing CDPAP as a cornerstone of autonomy and dignity for many New Yorkers.
The New York Department of Health has yet to respond publicly to the letter.
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