We , the undersigned, do hearby demand the funding cuts to the Departments of developmental programs, the department of education and, the department of Human Services be restored.
Cuts to the Educational System, and Higher Educational System has taken a toll on students and teacher's a like. Cuts to the Department of Developmental Programs have taken away vital services to individuals with developmental disabilities. 
The current across the board rate cut compromises the very services that are a potential solution to our current economic situation, the cuts enacted in November are crippling the provider system that is a lifeline to people with intellectual disability.  Many organizations are facing closure because they can’t meet their bills, or they will be forced to drastically cut the quality of the care they provide to vulnerable people.
We have tightened our belts but have reached our limits. We support consumers 24 hour per day 365 days per year, Cutting service anymore is impossible without putting lives at risk. We believe there needs to be a commitment to support the most vulnerable people in our state, Even during this difficult economic period.  Research-backed programs has paid off in increased student achievement. No states have statistically significant higher 8th grade reading scores than Pennsylvania on the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Only six states have significantly higher 4th grade reading scores.  On the NAEP math tests, only seven states have significantly higher 8th grade math scores than Pennsylvania and only four are significantly higher on 4th grade math scores. School boards will be forced to raise property taxes, eliminate programs that have contributed to our students’ outstanding academic achievements, and slash teaching jobs. That means that our students will ultimately pay the price.

Restore the funding NOW!

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