A Bay Shore woman is suing the state after the health department stopped paying for her disabled daughter's care.
Veronica Leon's 23-year-old daughter, Jeanette, needs 24-hour care for her cerebral palsy and severe developmental disabilities. Until early 2006 when Veronica Leon went to work, New York's consumer directed personal assistance program covered costs for the specialized care.
CD-PAP changed its policy last year, requiring the legal guardian, or primary caregiver, be present in the home at all times.
"Right now, they're denying those services," Leon said. "And she needs those services."
Robert Briglio, Leon's attorney, said the state's actions are contrary to the written law.
A spokesperson for the New York State Department of Health declined to comment on pending litigation.
To watch the complete interview with Veronica Leon, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.