Indiana Lt. Gov: Pause funding cuts for ‘most vulnerable’ Hoosiers

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch asked the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration Monday to pause budget cuts that could punish Indiana’s “most vulnerable” residents. The clawback follows a $1 billion mistake made by state revenue forecasters.

The contentious change poses a direct threat to state money paid to family caregivers, impacting parents who rely on the Legally Responsible Individuals program. It provides a paycheck for parents who give around-the-clock care to their medically complex children.

Amanda Walker, a parent from Crawfordsville, is the primary caregiver for her four-year-old son William.

“This program allows me to take him to Cincinnati multiple times a month when you have more than ten specialists out of state,” she said. “This program allows me to know that our family has food stability and we’re not going to lose our home.”

Walker said the FSSA has not provided an estimate of the number of families who could be affected by cuts. However, an online release indicates the overall package would save $300 million. The window for input closes Feb. 16, adding urgency to parents’ plea for reconsideration.

Tendra Duff, a parent from Westfield and program advocate, is the primary caregiver for her twin boys, both of whom have Down syndrome.

“They’re going to be with us a little bit longer than normal — so, we’re setting ourselves up for long-term sustainability and not just utilizing that extra paycheck for short-term sustainability,” she said.

Duff added parents plan to rally every Monday at the Statehouse while the Legislature is in session, and are using social media to spread awareness with an online petition.