Stimulus Bill and Disability Funding Amounts

 Disability News USA Disability News

Fortunately, the Senate rejected the proposed withdrawal of funding for special education, vocational rehabilitation, and independent living programs. These are the highlights of President Barack Obama $787 billion stimulus package effecting people with disabilities.

Many who advocate for the rights and needs of people with disabilities were dismayed to learn of the proposed Nelson-Collins amendment to the "American Recovery and Reinvestment Act," which was and still is being debated in the U. S. Senate.

Fortunately, the Senate rejected the proposed withdrawal of funding for special education, vocational rehabilitation, and independent living programs.

Highlights of President Barack Obama $787 billion stimulus package:

Funding for IDEA: $12.2 billion goes toward funding special education for the 6.8 million students with disabilities.

Medicaid: $87 billion in aid to states to help cover the cost of Medicaid.

Stimulus Payments: A one-time $250 stimulus payment for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. To receive the payment, you must be an adult who has been eligible to receive SSI sometime within the last three months. Payments are expected to be sent in May 2009 separately from regular benefit payments.

The money will be sent automatically to those who qualify via whatever method regular benefits are sent — direct deposit, check or on a Direct Express debit card.

The bill also provides these disability related provisions:

$87 billion to states for a temporary increase in the Federal Medicaid matching rate (FMAP).

$13 billion for IDEA state grants, to increase funding for special education.

$600 million for IDEA Early Intervention.

$500 million for the Vocational Rehabilitation state grant.

A one time $450 (individuals)/$630 (couples) payment to all SSI recipients ($4.2 billion total).

$6 billion for broadband and wireless services in under served areas.

$200 million for state formula grants for Centers for Independent Living.

$900 million to improve the Social Security Administration claims process and computerization upgrades.

$6.5 billion for several low income housing initiatives.

The White House launched a new Web site, www.recovery.gov, to provide citizens information about where money from the economic stimulus package is going.

By Fay - Feb 24, 2009 5:07:02 PM

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