Statement from Governor Kathy Hochul

“Every Republican in Congress must stand up for their constituents with disabilities and oppose the United States Department of Justice’s recent decisions to undermine the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“For decades, the Olmstead v. L.C. Supreme Court ruling and the guidance that followed defined a fundamental truth: every individual with a disability deserves to live, receive care and support, and thrive in their own community — not isolated in an institution.

“The federal government's decision to cease enforcement of its Olmstead guidance signals a troubling step backwards towards the segregation and institutionalization of people with disabilities and is an insult to millions of Americans with disabilities, their families, and the advocacy groups who fought for generations to live in the community.

“In New York State, we value community-based care, independent living, and full accessibility. We will continue to uphold the spirit and the letter of the ADA across every corner of our state.”