Connecticut Senate Bill SB00373

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/19
• Refer: 1/23/19

Caption

An Act Protecting The Interests Of Persons With Intellectual Disability.

Impact

A key provision of SB00373 requires the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management to engage with stakeholders before any decisions are made regarding the closure of facilities operated by the Department of Developmental Services. This consultative approach seeks to ensure that the interests and needs of the individuals affected are considered in policy-making processes. Furthermore, the bill mandates advance notice for individuals whose eligibility for state-assisted care will end, providing them and their families with crucial information for planning their future care and support.

Summary

SB00373, titled 'An Act Protecting The Interests Of Persons With Intellectual Disability', aims to enhance the services provided to individuals with intellectual disabilities in the state. The legislation mandates the Commissioner of Developmental Services to create a strategic plan aimed at decreasing the wait times for services available to this population. This bill reflects a commitment to addressing the long-standing issues around service delivery for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Contention

The bill highlights growing concerns about the adequacy of services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and the importance of transparency and stakeholder involvement in the decision-making processes affecting these services. Some points of contention could arise regarding the potential strain on state resources when implementing these mandates, particularly as demand for developmental services continues to rise. Advocates for persons with intellectual disabilities generally support the bill, while there may be opposition focused on the fiscal implications and the feasibility of reducing wait times without additional funding.

Notable_points

SB00373 represents a significant shift towards prioritizing the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities within state policy. By establishing more structured guidelines for the delivery of services and advocating for informed decision-making in facility operations, the bill seeks to create a more inclusive framework that upholds the rights of vulnerable populations in the community.