In Oregon our Legislature hasn't done any where near enough to take care of our citizens with developmental disabilities. I write about it all the time. I also attend meetings where I can point out these short comings in the hope that if they won't do the right thing because it's the right thing, maybe they can be shamed into it.
I found these bills that have had their second reading in the Colorado Legislature. This is the kind of laws that need to be in effect right here, right now. I've highlighted some pertanant keywords.
HB08-1101 by Representative(s) Gardner B.(R), Gardner C.; also Senator(s) Renfroe(R), Spence–Concerning increased state funding for services for persons with developmental disabilities for the purpose of reducing waiting lists for such services.
HB08-1246 by Representative(s) Green(D); also Senator(s) Keller(D)–Concerning the creation of a registry of caregivers who are deemed to have a substantiated allegation of wrongdoing against a person with a developmental disability, and making an appropriation therefor.
HB08-1047 by Representative(s) Gardner B.(R), Pommer, Soper; also Senator(s) Boyd(D), Keller, Spence, Williams–Concerning the creation of a set aside program for a nonprofit agency that bids for state services solicitations when the nonprofit agency employs persons with severe disabilities, and making an appropriation therefor. (Health and Human Services recommends the bill be amended as printed in Senate Journal, April 25, 2008, page 1153.) (Appropriations recommends the bill be amended as printed in Senate Journal, April 28, 2008, page 1200.)
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2 comments:
David,
I posted the response to your question over at Blue Oregon. I just wanted to make sure you saw my post.
One thing that the Legislature can do to improve the lives of people with disabilities is to help fund Centers for Independent Living in Oregon. Centers for Independent Living are organizations run by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities. These centers help people with disabilities maintain their independence and a meaningful quality of life.
These centers also have a demonstrated record of cost savings because the services these centers provide help keep people out of institutional environments.
More information can be found on the DHS website: http://whalespoken.org/DHS/vr/silc/gen-info.pdf
The legislature can continue to ensure that people with disabilities are accommodated by public transportation, such as creative ride and bus programs, by fully funding Ride Connection and Project Independence.
As a public health policy writer who looks at ways to improve the lives of people from all walks of live, I look forward to working on these issues in the Oregon House.
Thank you!
Cyreena Boston
Hi Cyreena!
Looks like you've boned up pretty well on some of the disability issues we're dealing with in Oregon. Not all candidates for office have much to say when asked this question.
My biggest concern is the abuse and neglect issue in regard to adults with developmental disabilities in our state. I'm sure you seen some of the numerous articles on this crisis in the Oregonian beginning last November.
If you're interested in helping to solve this problem, there is a community meeting scheduled for 5/12 at 5:00 PM. It's taking place at the United Way building at 619 SW 11th in conference room 10. Hope you can make it.
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