Lt. Governor Addresses PPL Rally in Latham

Advocates Demand Accountability as Leadership Exits at Key Home Care Program

In Latham, New York, a significant shift has occurred within the leadership of Public Partnerships LLC (P.P.L.), prompting calls for greater accountability from advocates and participants of the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP). The sudden departure of three top executives—CEO Vince Coppola, President Maria Perrin, and CFO Sherwin Krug—has raised concerns about the management of the state’s home care program.

Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado recently attended a rally at P.P.L.’s headquarters, where he joined personal assistants and those receiving care in demanding that Governor Kathy Hochul end the contract with the company. Delgado expressed his commitment to speaking out after being approached by advocacy groups and individuals affected by the changes.

“I felt obligated to speak up when I saw the impact on the ground,” said Delgado. “If the governor isn’t going to say anything, and there’s continued delay, then something needs to be addressed.”

Delgado emphasized the importance of transparency and questioned the reasons behind the executive departures. He also highlighted the significance of the delayed hearing scheduled for August 21, noting that the administration had initially resisted delays but later accepted them for the public session.

“Why was there a refusal to delay the deadline? It seems contradictory,” Delgado remarked. He clarified that he was not involved in discussions about the CDPAP transition and mentioned that he and the governor have not spoken in months.

Governor Hochul’s office released a statement defending the decision to move to a single fiscal intermediary for CDPAP. The statement emphasized the need to protect home care users and workers while addressing issues of waste and inefficiency.

“The administration saved CDPAP from a fiscal crisis by removing wasteful middlemen,” the statement read. “We remain committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the program and will take any necessary actions to address potential issues.”

Despite these assurances, many consumers and personal assistants continue to express concerns about the transition. Chants at the rally included, “Governor Hochul can’t you see, P.P.L. don’t care about me.” This sentiment reflects ongoing frustrations among those relying on the program for essential care.

A spokesperson for P.P.L. defended the company’s role, stating that the transition to a single fiscal intermediary was a necessary reform. They highlighted a large-scale survey showing high satisfaction among participants and emphasized their commitment to delivering uninterrupted care.

“There needs to be more transparency,” said Lori Lemke, Madison’s mother and personal assistant. “We need to know how PPL was selected and what the criteria were.”

Madison expressed gratitude for Delgado’s presence at the rally, noting the importance of having a leader who listens to their stories. “It means everything that he’s been here and listening to our stories and he cares so much,” she said.

As the situation continues to unfold, advocates are urging for further clarity and accountability. The upcoming hearing on August 21 presents an opportunity for stakeholders to voice their concerns and seek answers about the future of the CDPAP program. For now, the focus remains on ensuring that the needs of home care users and workers are prioritized amid ongoing changes.