A message from the Executive Director…
Dear Recipients, Providers and Advocates,
Since the governor released his proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, we have been fully focused on advocacy efforts. This began with the implementation of our Strategic Plan in Advocacy, which specifically targets proposed budget cuts to In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS). The three budget cuts we are opposing are:
1. Shifting costs from the state to the counties.
2. Aligning the termination date of Medi-Cal to IHSS.
3. The elimination of the statewide Back-Up Provider System (BUPS).
The Personal Assistance Services Council strongly opposes these cuts, as these services provide essential support to those most in need. The governor’s reasoning for eliminating the BUPS is based on a low usage rate, which does not reflect the situation in Los Angeles County. Here, we utilize the BUPS to its fullest extent.
On March 18, I traveled to Sacramento to continue our advocacy efforts, which has become like a second home to me. I reached out to several key legislators to schedule meetings. I was fortunate enough to meet with Senator Menjivar’s policy advisor, where I handed over our advocacy packet, which you can find here: https://pascla.org/wp-content/uploads/bsk-pdf-manager/2026/04/ADVOCACY-PACKET.pdf
On my way out, I encountered Senator Menjivar and took the opportunity to discuss the importance of IHSS and BUPS. As one of her constituents, I have always supported her efforts and have raised concerns about the removal of these essential services. The Senator assured me that she was doing everything she could to maintain these vital services. I expressed my gratitude for her work, knowing that I would need to reach out to her again in the future.
Later that night, I attended the Disability Rights California (DRC) Gala, where I met Andy Imparato, the Executive Director of DRC, and secured his participation for our upcoming panel discussion at the Summit on June 7. During this panel discussion, we will discuss our efforts for seniors and people with disabilities, along with our concerns regarding HR1.
(Andy Imparato, Executive Director of DRC and Luis Bravo, Executive Director of PASC)
(Luis Bravo with Project Air President, Kathleen Barajas)
On Saturday, March 21, I flew to Washington, D.C., to attend a policy seminar hosted by the Arc Foundation. Thousands of directors and advocates from across the nation attended this significant event, ready to engage in Capitol Hill. During the seminar, I had the pleasure of hearing numerous individuals share their lived experiences and insights into successful advocacy efforts. Throughout the day, we voiced our concerns about the impacts of HR1. Several panel discussions provided valuable assistance to everyone in attendance.
Towards the end of the seminar, we broke into state groups to discuss our plan of action. I was proud to represent In-Home Supportive Services and met many inspiring people along the way, including Raymond, a father and caregiver for his son, who shared how he never imagined becoming an advocate. I informed him that he and his son were the driving force behind my advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C. His personal challenges, especially amidst potential cuts to vital programs, made our conversation particularly meaningful.
(Luis Bravo, PASC Executive Director with Kevin MacDonald, Executive of the Senior Center in Santa Clarita and PASC Board Member)
(Advocates from Los Angeles and Orange County at the Policy Seminar in Washington D.C.)
The following day, I went to Capitol Hill, where I had the opportunity to meet with the Chief of Staff for Representative Robert Garcia of Long Beach, as well as policy advisors for Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff. I emphasized the importance of the programs and services we offer, particularly BUPS. Eliminating BUPS would force recipients to call 911, which we aim to prevent by providing services through the backup provider system with in-home caregivers. I appreciated the attentiveness of the staff I met with, as they were committed to ensuring the protection of essential services.
I also attended a joint meeting with Senator Schiff’s staff, where several advocates were present. I felt proud to participate and inspired by everyone’s commitment to advocacy. My purpose there was to advocate for all those who receive and provide IHSS. Although the future remains uncertain, I am immensely proud of the advocacy being demonstrated on Capitol Hill. I am hopeful that we can maintain a crucial program like BUPS, just as we did two years ago. As the saying goes, “there is strength in numbers,” and together, we will overcome these challenges as we have in the past.
(Meeting with Senator Schiff’s office led by the The Arc Foundation in Los Angeles, Executive Director Jordan Lyndsey.)
I am grateful to everyone who has shared their personal stories with me; this is what keeps me motivated, along with my own journey with IHSS. I plan to return to Sacramento later this month, next month, and in June. This is a personal invitation to anyone who would like to join me.
Important dates and events to look out for:
– Senate Budget Subcommittee#3 hearing (DDS and IHSS) on May 7
– Governor’s May Revision on May 15
– Disco at the Capitol (CA Disability Community Advocacy Conference) on May 18 and 19
– PASC Advocacy and Community Summit on June 7
– Governor’s official budget announcement on June 15
Remember, Your Voice Matters!
Sincerely,
Luis Bravo
Executive Director
Personal Assistance Services Council