Requires that applications submitted by individuals with developmental disabilities for eligibility determinations and service authorizations be processed in a timely manner; provides that where such application is not reasonably clear or omits required information or where the office reasonably suspects fraud based on specific information available, the office shall notify the applicant in writing requesting the specific information needed to process such application; removes reporting requirements.
Establishes the people with disabilities access to programs commission to examine, evaluate and make recommendations for new laws with respect to how the state should streamline eligibility requirements and processes for its programs and services to assist people with disabilities.
Names an office for people with developmental disabilities facility located in the borough of Manhattan the "Willie Mae 'Goody' Goodman Community Facility".
Directs the independent developmental disability ombudsman program to establish a service delivery structure based in New York state that includes a toll-free telephone hotline, an interactive website, and availability of in-person, telephone and email access to ombudsman program staff or volunteers; to provide assistance for navigating and completing processes; to assist individuals in filing and preparing appeals; to assist individuals with any problems encountered; and to educate individuals on their rights and responsibilities with respect to access to services provided by the office for people with developmental disabilities and care coordination provided by health homes serving individuals with developmental disabilities or services provided by other providers.
Prohibits the withholding of state funding for service providers for people with developmental disabilities due to the receipt of certain COVID-19 federal funds.
Establishes a comprehensive training program for care managers employed by care coordination organizations; mandates care managers complete the training before working with clients.
Requires boards of visitors provide greater transparency to the public regarding such boards' activities including when it meets and providing materials to the public.
Establishes the statewide group home families working group; provides that duties include informing and advising the commissioner as to matters of importance for persons with developmental disabilities residing in group homes and their families and guardians, providing recommendations for statewide and regional priorities and goals for individuals residing in group homes and families and guardians of individuals residing in group homes, advising the commissioner on such other matters related to group homes as the statewide group home families working group deems relevant, holding regional public meetings to solicit and receive input from residents of group homes and family members and guardians of residents of group homes, and any matter relating to the performance of their duties with relation to individuals in group homes and on policies, goals, budget and operation of group homes.
Requires the office for people with developmental disabilities to create a staffing plan for workforce emergencies when experiencing staffing shortages.
Directs the independent developmental disability ombudsman program to establish a service delivery structure based in New York state that includes a toll-free telephone hotline, an interactive website, and availability of in-person, telephone and email access to ombudsman program staff or volunteers; to provide assistance for navigating and completing processes; to assist individuals in filing and preparing appeals; to assist individuals with any problems encountered; and to educate individuals on their rights and responsibilities with respect to access to services provided by the office for people with developmental disabilities and care coordination provided by health homes serving individuals with developmental disabilities or services provided by other providers.
Enacts the "employment first choice act" to ensure that an individual with developmental disabilities in a nonintegrated setting shall have the right to remain in such a setting under certain circumstances.
Requires the office for people with developmental disabilities to create a staffing plan for workforce emergencies when experiencing staffing shortages.
Names an office for people with developmental disabilities facility located in the borough of Manhattan the "Lawrence 'Larry' Jackson Community Facility".