May 30 , 2024

We sent the note below along with a list from OMH.  Shortly after sending this information to our members, I began receiving notes from members telling me they had previously filed the 4% COLA attestation (in some instances numerous times) but their agency still appears on the list and they are concerned.   And then a member agency representative called to tell me that, based on her own experience trying to file the form online, and the expertise of her IT consultant, they were able to identify that the button you are supposed to press when you are ready to send in the form online, is apparently broken.

I just spoke to OMH and informed them of the problem.  Based on that conversation, I suggest that if your agency is on the list (attached again for your convenience) you should send the completed forms to OMH via email.  I was provided an email address for you to send the forms to:  COLA@omh.ny.gov  (The attestation form and the original letter from OMH are attached to this email.) Once you submit an email you will receive an automated message from the mailbox acknowledging your filing.

This is the message I received from the mailbox:

Thank you for reaching out. This is to inform you we have received your email.

If you have submitted your COLA Attestation, please use this as a receipt of your submission.

If this is a question we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Thank you,

Last week the NYS Council sent all members a communication from OMH urging those of you that had not already filled out the COLA attestation for last year’s 4% COLA, to do so immediately.  Several member agencies called me and I circled back with OMH, seeking clarity.  I just received the following communication from OMH in response to my query regarding which agencies were meant to get the second notice from them.  Please see the note below and the doc attached. Read carefully.  If I can be of assistance please get in touch at 518 461-8200 at any time.

———- Forwarded message ———

Date: Thu, May 30, 2024 at 12:14 PM
Subject: RE: Attestations for 4% COLA
To: lauri@nyscouncil.org <lauri@nyscouncil.org>

Hi Lauri,

The second email went only to those providers that have yet to submit the attestations. I have attached a list of those providers. Please keep in mind that many of them might not currently be running any OMH funded programs and therefore an attestation isn’t needed.  The full list of providers that received the original email are on the first tab of the attached.

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Thank you!