AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 33 and Title 52, relative to facilities for persons with disabilities.
The bill's amendments impact the Tennessee Code Annotated by laying out specific requirements for residential facilities catering to individuals with disabilities. The eligibility criteria for the pilot program include guidelines for the size of the property, the number of residents, and an emphasis on fostering inclusivity. By doing so, the bill aims to enhance the availability of supportive residential settings for adults with disabilities while promoting an inclusive community framework.
Senate Bill 110 aims to amend provisions related to facilities for persons with disabilities in Tennessee by establishing a pilot program for residential services. The bill specifies that one pilot participant must be located in each of the three grand divisions of Tennessee: western, middle, and eastern. To participate in the pilot program, a participant must possess a state-issued license to operate a residential home on a property that meets certain criteria, including a minimum size and capacity to serve additional adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Discussion around SB 110 revealed a generally favorable sentiment, particularly among advocates for individuals with disabilities who see the bill as a step towards improving living conditions and support services. However, as with many legislative measures, some concerns were highlighted regarding how effectively the bill would be implemented and whether it would sufficiently address the diverse needs of individuals with varying disabilities across different communities.
Notably, the discussion included concerns about the adequacy of the specified pilot program criteria and the operationalization of the facilities. Stakeholders expressed varied views on whether the requirements would effectively facilitate comprehensive care and whether they would adequately serve the populations intended. Furthermore, the timeline for implementation raised questions about the resource allocation needed to meet the bill's stipulations, particularly in areas with fewer existing facilities for individuals with disabilities.