Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed $252 billion New York State budget makes bold promises to increase spending by billions—particularly toward powerful union-backed institutions. But behind that headline lies a quieter, devastating reality: the plan also includes a $30 million cut to Medicaid-funded ABA therapy, a lifeline for thousands of low-income children with autism.
While hospitals and nursing homes—many represented by large health care unions—see increased funding, ABA therapists serving vulnerable populations are seeing their reimbursements slashed. These therapists, who are not unionized, provide essential services that directly impact children’s ability to communicate, learn, and safely navigate the world around them.
What Is ABA Therapy, and Why Does It Matter?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a research-based, highly individualized intervention that focuses on reinforcing positive behaviors and minimizing harmful or disruptive ones. For children on the autism spectrum, ABA isn’t optional—it’s critical.
Stimming, elopement, aggression, and difficulty with social interaction are just a few of the challenges that ABA therapy addresses. The earlier these behaviors are supported through ABA, the greater the long-term outcomes: children gain independence, schools receive better-prepared students, and families experience stability.
And while some families can rely on private insurance to afford ABA, thousands across New York depend on Medicaid. For them, these budget cuts don’t mean reduced services—they mean no services at all.
Slashing the Smallest Slice of the Budget
The irony is staggering. Medicaid spending in New York is approaching $35 billion annually. The portion that funds ABA therapy services is tiny by comparison—and yet it’s this fraction the state wants to slash.
Even worse, these cuts come only two years after New York finally extended full Medicaid coverage for ABA therapy. After decades of inequity, low-income families were finally gaining access to the same support wealthier families already had. That fragile progress is now being reversed.
And let’s not pretend this is about balancing the books. Waste and fraud in the Medicaid system are rampant. One audit found more than $16 million in erroneous payments over just six months. Redirecting that money could easily cover the cost of ABA therapy for thousands of children. But instead of rooting out inefficiency, the state is choosing to sacrifice kids.
We’re Here to Support Families Left Behind
At Lighthouse, we believe every child deserves access to life-changing therapy—regardless of their family’s income. That’s why we continue to offer comprehensive, compassionate, and effective ABA therapy services in New York, even as state support becomes more uncertain.
We’ve seen how ABA therapy transforms lives—how it helps children gain confidence, develop essential skills, and participate more fully in school and community life. No child should be left behind because of where they were born or what kind of insurance their family carries.
Reach Out Today
Reach out today to learn how we can support your family through our ABA therapy services in New York. We’ll help you navigate your options, understand your rights, and access the support your child needs—now and for the long term. The budget may be shifting, but our commitment to families is unwavering.
