Dear Senator [Last Name],
I am writing to urge you to restore full funding of $19.7 million for Michigan’s Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget.
The House budget cuts nearly $9 million from these essential services — reducing funding from $19.7 million to just $11 million. This would have devastating consequences for people with disabilities in our state, including:
- Fewer ramps, grab bars, and home modifications that allow people to live safely at home.
- More people forced into nursing homes and institutions due to lack of community-based supports.
- Layoffs of CIL staff — more than half of whom are people with disabilities.
Investing in CILs is not only the right thing to do — it saves the state money. Nursing home care costs Medicaid about $74,000 per person per year, while CILs help people remain independent at a fraction of the cost.
As your constituent, I ask you to stand with the disability community and ensure the full $19.7 million is included in the final budget. This investment protects independence, dignity, and fiscal responsibility for Michigan.
Thank you for your leadership and for protecting the rights and needs of Michiganders with disabilities.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your City/Town]
[Optional: A brief personal note — why disability funding matters to you or someone you love]