What if the fastest way to protect disability services this year isn’t a viral post—but scheduling a meeting now, before legislators head back to Albany? In this episode, AM Brian Miller gives straight answers and a playbook you can use now—from timing your outreach to crafting testimony that actually moves votes.
Why listen: Unlike many politicians, Miller doesn’t dodge the tough stuff. He leans in. Listen as he dives into the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), looming Medicaid reforms (including the CDPAP rollout), DSP wages, the red tape that blocks common-sense partnerships, and how to make your voice count before this legislative session begins.
You’ll learn practical moves:
- Perfect timing: While summer is a great time to connect with legislators, fall works too—and it’s not too late. Now is the moment to book longer, substantive meetings that won’t be possible once session starts, so your stories can shape bills before legislators are back in Albany.
- How to advocate: Replace mass emails with personal letters/calls that get read and get returned.
- Testify like a pro: Use a 5-minute structure (personal story → crisp facts → clear ask) and always follow up with the panel afterward.
- Unstick the system: Pair innovative pilots with smarter funding routes (Veterans, Aging, Education, Medicaid) and identify one word or phrase that could be tweaked in law/reg so that solutions aren't blocked.
- Policy focus areas: ADA/Olmstead compliance, DSP wage action, pausing/assessing rushed reforms, and making oversight reports accessible to the public and legislators.
Standout quotes:
- “Really get involved and understand how the different funding streams and different groups can work together to help our loved ones because this could be a difficult chapter coming up, but it’s not the end of our story.” — Heather M. Burroughs
- “Don’t rely on a form letter. Try to connect in person and be precise, but also personal.” — AM Brian Miller
What Brian Miller models: Bridge-building, engineering-style problem solving (root-cause → corrective action), and a consistent record of showing up for disability families, on the record and in the room.
Listen if you’re:
Parents & caregivers, self-direction leaders, DSPs and providers, advocates preparing testimony, or anyone ready to trade outrage for outcomes. Hit play to grab the blueprint—and pass it to a friend who needs it.
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