News and Reports
PCA OVERTIME ISSUE (2016)
November 23, 2016 After a rally, and extensive advocating, the PCA Overtime Coalition has successfully convinced the state to increase allowed PCA hours to 50. Please see the MassHealth flyer pc_overtime_november_2016.pdf and the state website
for the specific ruling with details on exemptions and waivers. This new ruling is an important win for the disability community. Every action, rally, phone call, email and letter showed our strength when we all work together. And the results show how we can work with the administration! We need to continue to work together and with the administration as future proposals unfold. "Nothing about us without us!
Archives
- PCA Referral Webinar - The PCA Workforce Council and Rewarding Work are hosting a webinar on how to use the PCA referral directory. PCA consumers / employers are encouraged to participate in to learn how to best use the features of the directory. We have implemented several new features since December. To sign up for the webinar on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 from 2-3:30 p.m., please contact Michelle Byrd at Michelle.Byrd@state.ma.us or 617 210-5715.
- We asked a PCA employer for her opinion on what is best and what is worst about the MA PCA program. Her response was the best part is that the program is consumer-directed (not the case in most states), and the worst part is that PCA's don't get health insurance. Most turnover can be attributed to PCA's finding other work where they get health insurance.
- PCA Rally at the Statehouse -
People with disabilities, Personal Care Attendants and Independent Living Advocates all gathered at the Statehouse in support of the MA PCA program. Bill Henning of BCIL spoke, as well as consumers, employers and PCA's. The crowd of about 150 attempted to speak to Governor Patrick, Speaker DeLeo and Senate President Therese Murray, but instead hope that the office staff relays the messages. January 19, 2011.
- The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities details budget cuts in 49 states (including MA) that have hurt vulnerable residents. With the current economy, and the new House rules (January 2011) stating all new expenditures need a comparable spending cut in the budget (and not a new fee or tax), these attacks on necessary services to disabled citizens will surely continue. Read this report by Nicholas Johnson, Phil Oliff and Erica Williams from November 5, 2010.