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“Enhancing the effectiveness of disability activism by organizing and empowering individuals, families, groups, and organizations!”

Empowerment! Opportunity! Justice!

January-February, 2011

To include information in next month’s Bulletin please contact us:

Stan Kosloski, 860-614-8351 or StanKosloski@ct-dac.org

Jayne Kleinman, 203-631-4800 or JayneKleinman@ct-dac.org

Website: http://www.ct-dac.org/contactus.htm

BRRRRRRRRR!

In This Issue	Page
Expanding Opportunities for In-Home Support	1
Accessible Taxi hearings & other transportation-related news	5
CT Lifespan Respite Coalition Annual Meeting, February 24 CT Forum event, & New Resource for Parents	6
News from the Family Support Network, DD Council’s 40th Anniversary event, & BIAC Annual Conference	7

Expanding Opportunities for In-Home Support Services

With a new Governor and a New Year come opportunities to expand community living opportunities for individuals with disabilities of all ages. The Affordable Care Act – the health care reform legislation passed in 2010 – provides us with new options for community-based support. Kate McEvoy, former Deputy Director of the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut, Inc. and recently appointed to a position in the Office of the State Comptroller, has prepared a comprehensive review of the current service delivery structure, as well as an analysis of how Sec. 1915 (i) of the new Act may move us forward in reaching our goal of creating a more inclusive CT. We share her paper with you to keep you informed of issues of importance to individuals with disabilities of all ages. A bill will be proposed this legislative session to move the issue from an idea into reality!

Streamline and Improve Access to Medicaid Home and Community- Based Long-Term Care Services (HCBS) through a Medicaid 1915(i) State Plan Amendment

Prepared by Kate McEvoy, Esq.

Statement of the Issue

Connecticut should streamline and improve access to Medicaid home and community-based long-term care services (HCBS) by directing the Department of Social Services (DSS) to seek, pursuant to Section 1915(i) of the Social Security Act, authorization from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid of an amendment of the Connecticut Medicaid state plan.

Such amendment shall be designed to achieve the objective of improving access to home and community-based services (HCBS) by:

• overcoming “silos” by utilizing non-financial eligibility criteria that relate to functional limitations as opposed to age, diagnosis, condition or disability;

• expanding coverage for otherwise eligible individuals who are currently waitlisted for service; and

• enhancing federal match for individuals whose services are currently funded exclusively out of state funds.

Home and community-based long-term care services are cost effective and reflect consumer preferences concerning care setting.

• Cost effectiveness: A key example of the cost savings that have been achieved is DSS’s analysis of expenditures under just one of Connecticut’s Medicaid “waiver” programs, the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE). In its report on the SFY’08 program year (latest published data), DSS presents a net CHCPE savings figure of $101,931,462, which represents the difference between total costs for services plus administrative costs plus Old Age Assistance benefits as compared with the costs that would have been incurred had participants entered nursing facilities (see http://www.ct.gov/dss/lib...rt/chcpereport2008.pdf).

• Consumer preference: Consistent with the results of nationalsurveys, almost 80% of Connecticut respondents to the Connecticut Long-Term Care Needs Assessment indicated that they would prefer to remain at home as they age, with or without home modifications. ( (See http://www.cga.ct.gov/coa/incl_longtermcare.htm).

Connecticut’s current means of providing Medicaid-funded HCBS is fractured and presents many barriers to consumers. As a result of capacity constraints, many otherwise eligible individuals have been waitlisted and endure long wait times for service. Consumers and professionals alike are challenged by the “silo” effect of Medicaid “waivers”, each of which are associated with distinct age, diagnostic or disability-specific eligibility criteria. Further, Connecticut is supporting many individuals exclusively through state funding, the cost of whose services could be eligible for Federal Medical Assistance Payment (FMAP).

Immediate Action Areas

A. Prioritization schedule and timeline

Pursuing a 1915(i) Medicaid state plan amendment should be prioritized because of the opportunity to expand coverage to individuals who are currently waitlisted for HCBS and to garner federal match for individuals who are currently served exclusively through state funding.

The state plan amendment process has historically originated within DSS with the Director of Medicaid, and involves dialogue with and feedback from CMS and ideally also community stakeholders. A group of advocates was convened in late spring, 2010 to study this option and is in process of producing draft enabling legislation with specific language addressing eligibility requirements.

B. Fiscal impacts

Consistent with efforts to optimize use of federal revenue, the 1915(i) option affords Connecticut an opportunity to garner FMAP for populations that are currently served exclusively through state funding. A non-exclusive list of examples of these include:

• participants of the state-funded tiers (Levels 1 & 2) of the CHCPE who are financially eligible for Medicaid but cannot currently meet the functional requirements for participation in a “waiver”; and

• individuals served by the Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services (DMHAS) through state grants.

The 1915(i) option does fundamentally alter the means by which the state would cover individuals, shifting from the current system in which each Medicaid “waiver” is associated with a participation cap to a system in which the state would be required to serve all individuals who met financial and functional eligibility criteria. Any expansion of costs associated with serving additional individuals is, however, anticipated to be:

• at least partially offset by receipt of FMAP for the above populations; and

• limited by the terms of participating in Medicaid that have always influenced consumer eligibility and willingness to accept benefits, among them: - low asset eligibility limits (generally, no more than $1,600 in liquid assets over and above “exempt” assets such as the recipient’s house); - the requirement that participants with incomes in excess of 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) contribute toward the costs of their care (“applied income”); and

- the right of the state to recoup benefits paid upon the death of the recipient (“estate recovery”).

C. Job impacts

Use of a 1915(i) state plan amendment would expand opportunities to serve individuals in the community, necessitating a larger pool of available direct care workers. Further, the state plan amendment permits use of a “self-directed” care model that would allow participants to hire their own “personal care attendants” (PCA’s) to support their needs on a flexible and individually-tailored basis. This option is consistent with federal policy preference and also presents opportunities to expand the community-based long-term care workforce.

D. Tie-in to Malloy/Wyman campaign policy

Use of the 1915(i) option is consistent with Governor-elect Malloy’s policy statement “Supporting Connecticut Seniors”. Specifically, page 2 of that statement provides:

I will work to support home care and other services that give seniors choices in where and how they will receive care. And, I will advocate for expanding access to those programs by reviewing and reforming eligibility requirements so that they more fairly reflect cost of living and other factors impacting our senior population.

Please note: page 2 of the “Supporting Connecticut Seniors” statement unfortunately provides some potentially misleading information about the CHCPE. The CHCPE contains two related components: 1) a Medicaid “waiver”, eligibility for which is determined using both income and asset eligibility requirements; and 2) a state-funded component, eligibility for which is determined using only an asset requirement. The statement seems to suggest that it is problematic to determine eligibility for the state-funded component solely on the basis of assets, but in fact it was a welcome development that via Public Act 00-2, June Special Session, the Connecticut Legislature liberalized access to the program by removing the income limits, affording access to program benefits to additional individuals who historically could not qualify because their incomes exceeded the prior limit.

E. Benchmark states

According to Diane Justice of the National Academy for State Health Policy, five states adopted a 1915(i) state plan amendment prior to adoption of ACA. These states include: Iowa, Nevada, Washington, Wisconsin and Colorado.

F. Knowledgeable parties/supporters

Commission on Aging; Connecticut Long-Term Care Advisory Council (statutorily established group representing all major stakeholder associations in service and advocacy with and for older adults and individuals with disabilities); DSS Money Follows the Person and Alternate Care Unit staff.

G. Dissenting opinions

Reasonable concerns have been expressed concerning expenditures under a 1915(i) state plan amendment given that it shifts from the current system in which each Medicaid “waiver” is associated with a participation cap to a system in which the state would be required to serve all individuals who met financial and functional eligibility criteria. As stated above, however, any expansion of costs associated with serving additional individuals is, however, anticipated to be:

• at least partially offset by receipt of FMAP for the above populations; and

• limited by the terms of participating in Medicaid that have always influenced consumer

eligibility and willingness to accept benefits, among them:

- low asset eligibility limits (generally, no more than $1,600 in liquid assets over and above “exempt” assets such as the recipient’s house);

- the requirement that participants with incomes in excess of 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) contribute toward the costs of their care (“applied income”); and - the right of the state to recoup benefits paid upon the death of the recipient (“estate recovery”).

Update on Accessible Taxi Initiative

The CT Department of Transportation held the first of two hearings to receive testimony as to the need for accessible taxi service in CT. Metro Taxi of West Haven and the Yellow Cab Co. of Bloomfield wish to use federal Department of Energy funding to purchase a total of 140 new taxis that will use energy efficient, compressed natural gas to fuel the taxi vehicles; all vehicles will also be wheelchair accessible. The geographic area of the state they propose to serve will be a corridor approximately 30 miles wide that will run along I-91 and I-95 from Enfield to Fairfield. Seventy towns will be covered.

The first of the hearings was held at the CT DOT offices in Newington on January 19 and 20. It concerned the application of Yellow Cab to expand its service area in the north central part of the state. A hearing on February 22 and 23 will deal with the application of Metro Taxi to cover central CT down to Fairfield. Call Daria Smith at (860) 523-0126 or e-mail her at info@ctsilc.org to register your interest in testifying, or to get more information.

This latest initiative comes on top of a Taxi Voucher program developed in New Haven that was announced in October. The program, a collaborative effort of Metro Taxi, the Greater New Haven Transit District, and the New Haven Department of Services for Persons with Disabilities, will give a 50 percent Metro Access discount card to those who qualify as having a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act. In addition to the voucher program Metro Taxi, using federal New Freedom Initiative grant funds, has added three more ADA-compliant vehicles to its fleet. Last year, it purchased one vehicle, and the demand was so great that it became difficult to get a last-minute ride because so many booked the vehicle in advance.

Other Transportation-Related Events

On January 27, from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., a panel discussion entitled “Running on Empty:  Land Use, Public Transportation and Pedestrian Friendly Streets in CT” will be held at Union Station in Hartford. A panel of experts will discuss how land use, public transportation, and complete streets policies affect employment, housing, health and mobility in your community.  The program is sponsored by CT Association on Community Transportation (CACT) in conjunction with Connect-Ability. Please contact Jonathan Rubell at jrubell@kennedyctr.org for more information. 

CACT, Connect-Ability, and Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) invite you to a Legislative Breakfast on February 24 in the Old Judiciary Committee Room, State Capitol Building in Hartford. A Continental Breakfast will be served at 8:30 am and an Information Session will be held from 9:00 to 10:00 am. Interested persons should RSVP by February 19 to Mary Tomolonius, CACT Executive Director (860) 693-0368 or by e-mail: mary.cact@yahoo.com

CT Lifespan Respite Coalition Annual Meeting

                   

The CT Lifespan Respite Coalition has announced a change in the date of its Annual Meeting. It will be held on Friday, February 18, from 10:00 am -12:00 pm in the Chauncey Lecture Hall, Gaylord Hospital in Wallingford. All interested parties are encouraged to attend. Refreshment will be provided. RSVP to Joy at 860-513-0172 or ctrespite@ cox.net .

                    February 25 Forum: “The Glorious, Mysterious Brain.”

 

On Friday, February 25, the CT Forum will host a live, unscripted conversation exploring thoughts, memory, health, science and more at the Bushnell Auditorium in Hartford. Temple Grandin (Autism Advocate and subject of an Emmy award winning film about her life), Steven Pinker (Author of The Blank Slate and How the Mind Works and a Harvard Professor) and Paul Bloom (Cognitive Scientist and popular Yale professor) will take part. The event will be moderated by Mary Hynes. You can learn more about the event by going to www.ctforum.org/content/glorious-mysterious-brain. Tickets are available at www.ctforum.org or 860-509-0909 – group rates are available.

Among other things, Temple Grandin is known for her quote "If I could snap my fingers and become non-autistic I would not do so. Autism is a part of who I am." As a person with high-functioning autism, she is an important autism advocate who helps raise awareness and understanding about the experience of autistic individuals.  This year, Grandin was included on TIME magazine’s list of 100 people who most affect our world, and the recent HBO movie about her life, Temple Grandin starring Claire Danes, has received 15 Emmy nominations.

New Resource for Parents

A new web site - KidsMentalHealthInfo.com - has been designed as a resource for parents and caregivers to help them better understand their children's mental health and be better informed consumers of mental health services and supports. Parents of children with mental health concerns as well as providers and experts in the field have helped create this resource for parents and caregivers.

Here you'll find:

- Frequently asked questions

- Links to vital local and national resources

- Insights to navigating the mental health care system

- A searchable resource library

The site has been developed by the Child Health and Development Institute of CT.

News from the Family Support Network

The Connecticut Family Support Network (CTFSN), an organization that provides support to families raising children with disabilities and special healthcare needs, recently received gifts from two prominent local foundations.

After providing technical and mentoring support for the past year, the Children’s Fund of Connecticut (CFC) has presented CTFSN with a gift of $3,500 to support core infrastructure building within the organization.  This gift is in addition to funds previously donated to support leadership development and CTFSN’s Federal 501(c)3 application, which was recently approved.  The Children’s Fund leadership also provided an introduction to the J. Walton Bissell Foundation that has paid off handsomely in the form of a $10,000 check received just before the end of the year. 

Created in 2001, the CTFSN has a staff that includes 10 parents of children with disabilities. CTFSN staff leverage their personal experience to help families navigate the state’s complex and, for many, overwhelming service systems. They know how to find and access services, and then complement these family focused efforts with organized advocacy.

In addition to direct family support, the CTFSN plays a critical role in organized advocacy at the community, policy-making and legislative levels to ensure that programs continue to meet the changing needs of families.”

For additional information, please contact Jennifer Carroll at (877) 376-2329 or jtcarroll@cox.net.

Save the Date!

 

The Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities will celebrate its 40^th Anniversary and its work to promote the full inclusion of people with disabilities in community life on Wednesday, March 2 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center in Cromwell.

 

The Council will honor leaders who have advanced equal opportunity for people with developmental disabilities. Guests will include former Senator and Governor Lowell P. Weicker (via satellite); John A. Doyle, Former Chief of Staff, Senate Subcommittee on the Handicapped; Robert Williams, Former Commissioner, Administration on Developmental Disabilities; Thomas H. Powell, Ed.D., First Director, University Affiliated Program, UCONN; Sharon Lewis, Commissioner, Administration on Developmental Disabilities (Invited); Beth Mount, Ph.D., Graphic Futures and Capacity Works; and John McKnight, Abundant Community.

   

For more information contact Council Director Ed Preneta at: 860-418-6160 or by email:  ed.preneta@ct.gov.

And Another Save the Date ….

The Brain Injury Association of Connecticut Annual Conference will be held on Friday, March 11, at the Marriott Hotel in Rocky Hill. Conference Tracks include Concussions, Aging & Brain Injury, Research, and New Developments. The conference is being designed for Athletic Trainers, Coaches, Nurses, Educators, Social Workers, Neuropsychologists, APRNs, PAs, PTs, Speech Language Pathologists, OTs, State Agency Personnel and anyone who works with, treats, or supports individuals with brain injuries. Certificates of Attendance and selected CEUs will be available. The Keynote Speakers will be Attorney Steven Benvenisti and Christopher J. Nowinski, Sports Legacy Institute. To reserve your spot, contact Melinda McKeown at (860) 219-0291 x. 309. You may also visit the BIAC website for further information at www.biact.org.

 

“Enhancing the effectiveness of disability activism by organizing and empowering individuals, families, groups, and organizations!”

Empowerment! Opportunity! Justice!

February-March, 2011

To include information in next month’s Bulletin please contact us:

Stan Kosloski, 860-614-8351 or StanKosloski@ct-dac.org

Jayne Kleinman, 203-631-4800 or JayneKleinman@ct-dac.org

Website: http://www.ct-dac.org/contactus.htm

In This Issue	Page
Governor proposes MFP expansion & new process for administering HUSKY	2
Overview of proposed changes in DSS budget	3
Appropriations Committee hearing process & dates for agency public hearings	4
Governor’s proposal for P&A, CDHI, & BESB	6
Legislative Committee deadlines for reporting out bills	7
Advocates’ proposal to amend State Medicaid plan	8
Transportation news, including hearing an accessible taxi proposal	8
Governor to hold 17 Town Forums	9
Other in-state news	10
Federal budget news	13

Governor Announces Expansion of MFP

On February 8 Governor Dan Malloy proposed a significant expansion of the Money Follows the Person (MFP) Program, operated by the Department of Social Services.  The administration has set an agenda for Connecticut to move 2,251 individuals from nursing facilities to homes in the community by June, 2013.  And 5,200 people will be moved to the community by 2016. Since MFP went operational two years ago, over 500 individuals have been transitioned out of nursing facilities and other institutions.

MFP was first funded under the federal Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, and then extended by the Affordable Care Act, the federal health care reform legislation that was passed last year. MFP supports individuals age 18 and older who have resided in an institution for at least three months (this threshold requirement was reduced from 6 to 3 months by the Affordable Care Act) and who are otherwise eligible for home and community-based services provided through a Medicaid "waiver" (e.g., the Brain Injury waiver, the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders, the Personal Care Assistance waiver).  MFP provides counseling, transition assistance with locating housing and establishing a household, rental assistance, and ongoing support through a Medicaid waiver. 

The Governor’s announcement represents a big new commitment to shifting resources from institutional settings (nursing homes, chronic disease hospitals) to community-based care.  This is known as "re-balancing", and there are financial incentives under ACA involving enhanced federal match for shifting this ratio. 

Malloy Administration also Announces Changes to HUSKY

The Malloy Administration has also made an announcement that, after 15 years of expensive, troublesome contracts with a series of private insurers, the entire HUSKY program for about 400,000 CT residents will be moved from the capitated HMO model to a non-risk administrative services organization (ASO) model.  Sheldon Toubman, an attorney for New Haven Legal Assistance, reports that “This model will include primary care case management (PCCM) and other care coordination options applied to the entire Medicaid population of almost 600,000 residents, all whom will be included in this new ASO.  This is being done both to improve the quality of care and save money for taxpayers.

 

The state will pay directly for all health care services, instead of leaving this to a private entity with a direct financial interest in withholding payment for needed treatments, as it has been up until now.  This will be after many years of successive Governors fighting any effort by advocates to move in the direction of replacing the failed HUSKY capitated system, under which the HMOs were perennially demanding more money to stay.  Although Governor Rell agreed to the move to an ASO in a budget deal last year, her administration nevertheless strongly resisted this, out of deference to the insurance industry and the status quo.”

Human Service-Related Items of Interest in Governor’s Budget

Below are excerpts from a document produced by Kate McEvoy, Esq., formerly of the South CT Area Association on Aging and now on the staff of the State Comptroller. The focus of the document is the budget proposed for the Department of Social Services.

Department of Social Services Section of the Governor’s Budget proposal

Administrative Provisions

• to consolidate the Commission on the Deaf and Hearing Impaired and BESB within DSS (see article below)

• to transfer funds to DMHAS in support of an additional 30 slots in the WISE waiver

Entitlements

• to eliminate cost of living adjustments for recipients of Temporary Family Assistance (TFA), State Administered General Assistance (SAGA)and State Supplement to the Aged, Blind and Disabled (SSABD)

Home and Community-Based Care

• to close intake to Level 1 of the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) and prohibit replacement of clients who leave the program

Medical Assistance

• with respect to cost sharing:

  • to impose $3 co-payments on most Medicaid services, but note:

    • co-payments would not apply to hospital in-patient, emergency room services, home health, laboratory or transportation

    • the total co-pay obligation per month would be capped at 5% of the involved family’s income

    • co-payments for prescription drugs would be capped at a maximum of $20 per month

    • a number of groups would be exempt from making co-payments (relevant to our purposes, this includes recipients of SSI, women who are receiving treatment for breast and/or cervical cancer and individuals who reside in institutional settings)

  • to restore the required co-payment for Levels 1 and 2 of the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) from 6% to 15% of each participant’s monthly plan of care

  • to reduce the Personal Needs Allowance (PNA) for residents of nursing homes, chronic disease hospitals, and ICF-MR’s from the current amount of $69 per month to $60 per month

State Prescription Drug Coverage

• the Governor’s budget proposes the following changes in pharmacy coverage:

  • in light of the significant expansion in eligibility guidelines for the Medicare Savings Programs (MSP), to phase out the ConnPACE program and to grandfather coverage of the 110 clients who are otherwise ineligible for an MSP

  • to further limit state coverage of Part D co-payments (in 2011, these range from $1.10 to $6.30 per prescription), with the result that dually-eligible individuals will be expected to pay up to $25 per month in co-payments (an increase from the current co-payment of $15)

Provider Issues

• The Governor’s budget recommends:

• eliminating the Long-Term Care Reinvestment Account that is statutorily authorized but has not yet been implemented, and treating enhanced FMAP received under Money Follows the Person as General Fund revenue.

Other

• to reduce funding for the Independent Living Centers

A previous press release issued by the Governor included the following: where families are applying for Husky B coverage, Connecticut will shift from its current rule under which financial eligibility must be verified before coverage is effective, to a system of "presumptive eligibility" in which coverage will be based on families' self-reported declaration of income.  This will mean that children will be covered more rapidly and that the state will receive incentives.

The public hearing on the Governor’s DSS budget will be held Friday, March 4 at 5 pm in Room 2C of the Legislative Office Building.

How the Appropriation Committee Conducts its Business

The Appropriations Committee will hold state agency budget presentations and public hearings from Wednesday, February 23, 2011 through Friday, March 4, 2011. Public speaker order for the public hearings will be determined by a lottery system.  Lottery numbers will be drawn from 9:00 - 10:00 am in the First Floor Atrium of the LOB and from 10:15 - 1:00 pm in Room 2700 of the LOB.  The list of speakers registered through the lottery system will be posted outside the designated hearing room two hours prior to the start of the public hearing.  Speakers arriving after the completion of the lottery will have their names placed at the end of the speaker list. Speakers will be limited to three minutes of testimony.  You should plan to submit 25 copies of written testimony at the time of sign-up.  Testimony delivered after the start of a hearing may not be distributed until the following day. The Committee will accept electronic testimony via email at appropriationtestimo@cga.ct.gov for posting on the Committee's website and inclusion in the hearing transcript.  Unofficial sign-up sheets have no standing with the Committee.

Special note: Legislators are responsive to the stories of individuals - people who tell their own story about how they have been helped and/or how any budget proposal might affect them.

Appropriation Committee Budget Hearings

SCHEDULE OF STATE AGENCY BUDGET PRESENTATIONS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS

Wednesday, February 23

Regulation and Protection (Room 2D)

9:30-10:00 AM Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities

Agency Budget Hearings (Room 2C)

6:00-6:30 PM Office of Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities

Office of the Healthcare Advocate

Office of the Child Advocate

Public Budget Hearings (Room 2D) 6:30 PM

Friday, February 25

Transportation (Room 2D)

3:00-4:00 PM Department of Motor Vehicles

4:00-5:00 PM Department of Transportation

Public Budget Hearings (Room 2D) 6:00 PM

Tuesday, March 1

Elementary & Secondary Education (Room 2D)

10:30-12:00 PM Department of Education

Legislative (Room 2D)

1:00-1:30 PM African American Affairs Commission

1:30-2:00 Commission on Aging

2:00-2:30 Asian Pacific American Commission

2:30-3:00 Commission on Children

3:00-3:30 Commission on Latino and Puerto Rican Affairs

3:30-4:00 Permanent Commission on the Status of Women

Public Budget Hearings (Room 2C) 6:30 PM

Wednesday, March 2

Health and Hospitals (Room 2D)

9:30- 10:30 AM Department of Public Health

10:30-11:30 Department of Developmental Services

11:30-12:30 PM Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

Public Budget Hearings (Room 2C) 3:00 PM

Friday, March 4

Human Services (Room 2D)

9:30-10:15 AM Board of Education and Services for the Blind

10:15-11:00 AM Commission on the Deaf and Hearing Impaired

11:00-12:30 PM Department of Children and Families

12:30-1:30 PM LUNCH RECESS

1:30-3:00 PM Department of Social Services

Public Budget Hearings (Room 2C) 5:00 PM

P&A Budget Hearing

The Governor's proposed budget for the Office of Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities would eliminate four employee positions and cut almost $40,000 in funding for contracts to protect the rights of people with disabilities.  

The Appropriations Committee public hearing on the Protection and Advocacy budget is

Wednesday, February 23 at the Legislative Office Building. From 6:00 - 6:30 pm Executive

Director Jim McGaughey will testify and will explain how harmful these proposed cuts would

be (Room 2-C). The public is invited to testify starting at 6:30 PM in Room 2-D.

If you need to request a modification or accommodation for the hearing – a American Sign

Language interpreter for example - call the Appropriations Committee staff at 860-240-0390.

Governor’s Plan for BESB and CDHI

Governor Malloy’s budget proposal divides BESB into two parts and moves those
 parts to other state agencies. The Children's Services division will
 become a part of the State Department of Education. The Vocational
 Rehabilitation division, the Adult Services division and the Business
 Enterprise Program will all become part of the Department of Social
 Services. The BESB Board, sometimes known as the Board of Directors, 
 will not set policy but will play an advisory role to those two
 agencies. BESB's upper level administration functions are defunded.All other details of the future organizational structure for these 
 programs will be worked out by the Commissioner of Education and the Commissioner of Social Services, respectively.

The proposal is outlined in Senate Bill 1012 which you can read on the 
 legislature's website at www.cga.ct.gov. It is a long bill
 that also includes the merger of the Commission on the Deaf and Hearing
 Impaired into the Department of Social Services. The bill keeps all of CDHI's functions and responsibilities, and places them under DSS and the DSS Commissioner. The CDHI Advisory Board is retained as an advisory council to the Commissioner of DSS. The bill deletes the CDHI executive director position and for some reason does does not specifically mention CDHI counseling services

The Appropriations Committee has scheduled its public hearings on BESB 
 and CDHI for

Friday, March 4, 2011. The portion of the hearing for BESB to
 testify is scheduled from

9:30 am until 10:15 am, and
 CDHI will present at 10:15 am. Both presentations will take

place in Room 2D of the Legislative Office Building (LOB) in 
 Hartford. The portion of the

hearing at which the public may testify for either agency is
 scheduled for the evening of the

same day (March 4) starting at 5:00 pm
 in Room 2D of the LOB.

The Legislature’s Committee deadlines for action on bills

Aging 3/10/11

Appropriations 4/26/11

Children 3/10/11

Fin., Rev. & Bonding 4/27/11

GAE 4/4/11

Housing 3/15/11

Human Services 3/24/11

Insurance 3/17/11

Judiciary 4/15/11

Public Health 4/1/11

Transportation 3/21/11

Veterans Affairs 3/10/11

Other Budget News

The Governor’s budget proposes $30 million in the first year for permanent supportive housing, to create 150 new supportive units.  To augment the construction funds for those units, the governor's budget includes in the 2013 budget annualized appropriations of:

• $1.1 million in supportive services through the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, and

• $1.5 million in new rental assistance subsidies through the Department of Social Services.

The budget proposes no reduction in the DSS line item that includes rental assistance payments for supportive housing, but it is unclear how those funds will be apportioned.

Expanding Opportunities for In-Home Support Services

In addition to the Governor’s proposal to expand the MFP program, a group of disability and older adult advocates have been working hard on a proposal to amend the State’s Medicaid plan to further expand community supports for adults with disabilities, regardless of age. The Affordable Care Act – the health care reform legislation passed in 2010 – provides us with new options for community-based support. Sec. 1915 (i) of the new Act provides opportunities, and incentives, that can be used to move us toward our goal of creating a more inclusive CT. A bill will be proposed this legislative session to move the issue from an idea into reality!

The plan amendment being designed will achieve the objective of improving access to home and community-based services (HCBS) by:

• overcoming “silos” by utilizing non-financial eligibility criteria that relate to functional limitations as opposed to age, diagnosis, condition or disability;

• expanding coverage for otherwise eligible individuals who are currently waitlisted for service; and

• enhancing federal match for individuals whose services are currently funded exclusively out of state funds.

Connecticut’s current means of providing Medicaid-funded HCBS is fractured and presents many barriers to individuals who want to remain at home, or return home from an institution. As a result of capacity constraints, many otherwise eligible individuals have been waitlisted and endure long wait times for service. Consumers and professionals alike are challenged by the “silo” effect of Medicaid “waivers”, each of which are associated with distinct age, diagnostic or disability-specific eligibility criteria. Further, Connecticut is supporting many individuals exclusively through state funding, the cost of whose services could be eligible for Federal Medical Assistance Payment (FMAP).

Accessible Taxi Hearing this Coming Week

The CT Department of Transportation is holding hearings this coming week (February 22-24) on a proposal from Metro Taxi in West Haven to purchase seventy wheelchair accessible taxis that will cover a geographic area from Meriden through Fairfield, reaching into thirty five towns. Beginning January 18 and ending February 18 a hearing was held on a similar proposal put forth by Yellow Cab in Bloomfield to cover an area from Enfield through Berlin, also covering thrity five towns. The two companies wish to use federal Department of Energy funding to purchase a total of 140 new taxis that will use energy efficient, compressed natural gas to fuel the taxi vehicles; all vehicles will also be wheelchair accessible. Parties wishing to support the Metro Taxi proposal by testifying at the February hearing should call Daria Smith at (860) 523-0126 or e-mail her at info@ctsilc.org to register your interest in testifying.

This latest initiative comes on top of a Taxi Voucher program developed in New Haven that was announced last October. The program, a collaborative effort of Metro Taxi, the Greater New Haven Transit District, and the New Haven Department of Services for Persons with Disabilities, will give a 50 percent Metro Access discount card to those who qualify as having a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act. In addition to the voucher program, Metro Taxi, using federal New Freedom Initiative grant funds, has added three more ADA-compliant vehicles to its fleet. Metro Taxi purchased one accessible vehicle in 2009, and the demand was so great that it became difficult to get a last-minute ride and that led to the purchase of three more taxis that went into operation over the last month.

Other Transportation-Related Events

The CT Association for Community Transportation, Connect-Ability, and Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) invite you to a Legislative Breakfast on February 24 in the Old Judiciary Committee Room, State Capitol Building in Hartford. A Continental Breakfast will be served at 8:30 am and an Information Session will be held from 9:00 to 10:00 am. Interested persons should RSVP by February 19 to Mary Tomolonius, the new CACT Executive Director, at (860) 693-0368 or by e-mail: mary.cact@yahoo.com.

Governor Malloy holding Town Forums Statewide   Governor Malloy will be visiting seventeen town halls across the state (one for every municipality with a daily newspaper). The scheduled events are listed below. It is very important that the Governor hears from YOU as to what issues are important to you, your family and community this legislative session and to hear your response to his proposed budget.   Please try to attend forums so that you can help set the tones of the forum and ask important questions pertaining to your legislative priorities. BRIDGEPORT - February 21, 7-8 PM - City Hall Annex Auditorium - 999 Broad Street TORRINGTON - February 24, 7-8 PM - City Hall Auditorium - 140 Main Street NEW LONDON - March 2, 7-8 PM - Jennings Elementary School - 50 Mercer Street WATERBURY - March 8, 7-8 PM - Veteran’s Memorial Hall - 235 Grand Street NORWICH - March 9, 7-8 PM - City Hall, 3rd Floor - 100 Broadway BRISTOL - March 14, 7-8 PM - City Council Chambers - 111 North Main Street MERIDEN - March 15 - Time & Location TBD MIDDLETOWN - March 16, 7-8 PM -Common Council Room - 245 DeKoven Drive HARTFORD - March 21 - Time & Location TBD STAMFORD - March 22, 7-8 PM - Government Center - 4th Floor Cafeteria 888 Washington Boulevard NEW HAVEN - March 23, 7-8 PM - Aldermanic Chambers - 165 Church Street GREENWICH - March 28, 7-8 PM - Town Hall Meeting Room - 101 Field Point Road MANCHESTER - March 29, 7-8 PM - Lincoln Center Hearing Room - 494 Main Street WINDHAM - March 30, 7-8 PM - Town Hall Auditorium - 979 Main Street NORWALK - April 4 - Time & Location TBD NEW BRITAIN - April 5 - Time & Location TBD DANBURY - April 6 - Time & Location TBD

Housing Vouchers in New Haven

The Housing Authority of the City of New Haven (HANH) is accepting applications

for the Housinf Choice Voucher Program (HCV). The process is only open to families that qualify for 3 or 4 bedroom apartments. Only 200 applicants will be accepted for each bedroom size. Selection will be conducted thru a lottery system. Applications must be received or post marked by February 25, 2011.

 

The mailing address to submit applications is:

Housing Authority of New Haven

PO Box 1870

New Haven, CT 06510

 

Applications can be dropped off at:

Housing Authority of New Haven

360 Orange Street

New Haven, CT 06510

Applications will be rejected if the family does not qualify for a 3 or 4 bedroom apartment. For more information call (203) 498-8800.

February 25 Forum: “The Glorious, Mysterious Brain”

On Friday, February 25, the CT Forum will host a live, unscripted conversation exploring thoughts, memory, health, science and more at the Bushnell Auditorium in Hartford. Temple Grandin (Autism Advocate and subject of an Emmy award winning film about her life), Steven Pinker (Author of The Blank Slate and How the Mind Works and a Harvard Professor) and Paul Bloom (Cognitive Scientist and popular Yale professor) will take part. The event will be moderated by Mary Hynes. You can learn more about the event by going to www.ctforum.org/content/glorious-mysterious-brain. Tickets are available at www.ctforum.org or 860-509-0909 – group rates are available.

Among other things, Temple Grandin is known for her quote "If I could snap my fingers and become non-autistic I would not do so. Autism is a part of who I am." As a person with high-functioning autism, she is an important autism advocate who helps raise awareness and understanding about the experience of autistic individuals.  This year, Grandin was included on TIME magazine’s list of 100 people who most affect our world, and the recent HBO movie about her life, Temple Grandin starring Claire Danes, has received 15 Emmy nominations.

DD Council 40^th Anniversary in Two Weeks!

 

The Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities will celebrate its 40^th Anniversary and its work to promote the full inclusion of people with disabilities in community life on Wednesday, March 2 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center in Cromwell. The Council will honor leaders who have advanced equal opportunity for people with developmental disabilities. Guests will include former Senator and Governor Lowell P. Weicker (via satellite); John A. Doyle, Former Chief of Staff, Senate Subcommittee on the Handicapped; Robert Williams, Former Commissioner, Administration on Developmental Disabilities; Thomas H. Powell, Ed.D., First Director, University Affiliated Program, UCONN; Sharon Lewis, Commissioner, Administration on Developmental Disabilities (Invited); Beth Mount, Ph.D., Graphic Futures and Capacity Works; and John McKnight, Abundant Community.

   

For more information contact Council Director Ed Preneta at: 860-418-6160 or by email:  ed.preneta@ct.gov.

And on March 11.….

The Brain Injury Association of Connecticut Annual Conference will be held on Friday, March 11, at the Marriott Hotel in Rocky Hill. Conference Tracks include Concussions, Aging & Brain Injury, Research, and New Developments. The conference is being designed for Athletic Trainers, Coaches, Nurses, Educators, Social Workers, Neuropsychologists, APRNs, PAs, PTs, Speech Language Pathologists, OTs, State Agency Personnel and anyone who works with, treats, or supports individuals with brain injuries. Certificates of Attendance and selected CEUs will be available. The Keynote Speakers will be Attorney Steven Benvenisti and Christopher J. Nowinski, Sports Legacy Institute. To reserve your spot, contact Melinda McKeown at (860) 219-0291 x. 309. You may also visit the BIAC website for further information at www.biact.org.

The ASRC and the Autism Society of CT Advocacy Training Series

Families are a child’s best advocate, but they need to be prepared to act on behalf of their child in productive ways.  This includes understanding the nature of their child’s disability, school district policies and procedures, basic principles of IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and what is considered to be best for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

A 10 week Advocacy Training Series presented by ASCONN (Autism Society of CT) and The ASRC (Autism Spectrum Resource Center) will be held from March 2, 2011 to May 11, 2011 on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at Northwestern Connecticut Community College (NCCC) in Winsted Connecticut. The ASRC is a family run, non-profit organization in Connecticut that serves individuals with autism spectrum disorders, their family members, and the professionals who work with them. The series is co-sponsored by the Parent Support Group at NCCC, LACASA (Litchfield County Autism Spectrum Association) and NCCC’s Center for Teaching (CFT).  This event will be held in the Draper Conference Center.

Presenters will include Sara Reed, Esq., Executive Director of ASCONN, Theresa DeFrancis, Esq., Education Consultant with the Bureau of Special Education in the State Department of Education, Jacqueline Kelleher, Ph.D., Faculty member in the Isabelle Farrington College of Education at Sacred Heart University, Ruth Eren, Ed.D., Professor, at Southern Connecticut State University, in the Department of Special Education/Reading, Barbara Cool, MS, C.C.C–SLP, Speech/Language Pathologist at the Eden Family of Services Outreach Division, and Carol Barans, M.Ed., 092,  special education teacher and administrator in the public schools in Connecticut.

This series is designed specifically for parents, guardians and advocates. If you would like to attend, please contact the Connecticut Autism Spectrum Resource Center by February 24, 2011, to register. The registration fee is $120.00, and scholarships are available. You may also contact Sharon Cable at 860-693-9128, by email at: cablehome3@comcast.net or Dr. Robert Beck at 860-738-0628, by email at rbeck@nwcc.commnet.edu for further information.  

Web sites on Autism

Though many people are familiar with the major autism websites in CT, it might be helpful to share them with families and providers as some of them have changed. The sites incllude great information on upcoming workshops, puzzlethons, walks, scholarships for workshops, a protected parent discussion listserve, mini-grants for safety and security, jewelry, family events, camps, camp funds, and more....

 

Here are some websites to check out:

 

1)  Autism Society of CT - ASConn - http://www.asconn.org/

2)  Autism Speaks, CT Chapter - http://communities.autism...onnecticut_Resources.htm

3)  Autism Spectrum Resource Center - ASRC - http://www.ct-asrc.org/

4)  CT Families for Effective Autism Treatment - FEAT - http://www.ctfeat.org/

5)  Friends of Autistic People - FAP - http://www.autisticadults.com/

 

Federal Budget News

The National Council for Independent Living (NCIL) reports that President Obama’s 2012 budget proposes a dramatic change for the Independent Living Program within the U.S. Department of Education.  Currently, CILs receive a direct grant (part C funds) from the U.S. Department of Education, Rehabilitation Services Administration and then additional funds (part B) through the State Plan for Independent Living.  The proposed budget would change this from a consumer-controlled, local non-profit directed program to a program at the discretion of and administered by the state.    

The document (www2.ed.gov/about/overview/budget/budget12/summary/edlite-section2b.html ) claims that the consolidated program would provide formula grants to states to support the provision of independent living services through CILs, and to hold states accountable. In a news release NCIL reports:

“This is a bad idea! Instead of providing direct funding to CILs, as has been the case since 1992, this proposal will put all of the money in the hands and at the discretion of each state’s DSU. This proposal is an insult to years of work to develop a consumer controlled program that is funded in a method that assures such control. Allocating all Independent Living Program dollars through each state will remove much of that control”.

 

If you have questions about the President’s budget, the budget process, or IL funding, please call NCIL Policy Analyst Austin Walker at 202-207-0334 (toll-free: 1-877-525-3400), ext. 1008. Austin can also be reached by e-mail at austin@ncil.org.

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March - April, 2011

To include information in next month’s Bulletin please contact us:

Stan Kosloski, 860-614-8351 or StanKosloski@ct-dac.org

Jayne Kleinman, 203-631-4800 or JayneKleinman@ct-dac.org

Website: http://www.ct-dac.org/contactus.htm

In This Issue	Page
Governor Malloy, State Legislation, and the State General Assembly – PCA legislation, in-home support services, Dial-A-Ride funding, & town forums	1
Need help with income tax prep?	5
Elder Law Project gets support from Pfizer & Suzanne Liquerman tribute,	6
ADACC offers workshop for ADA Coordinators & Oak Hill offers employment course	7
New poverty standards in effect, disability advocacy in Bridgeport, Hartford fair housing celebration & CCKF quarterly coalition meeting	8
Mental health facilitator training & other upcoming events	9
Federal news: how President’s budget will affect ILCs & new ADA regs went into effect on March 15	11

Governor Malloy, State Legislation and the State General Assembly

Issues of Interest and Concern:

To review the text of any bill before the General Assembly you must get the bill #. Then: 1)
open http://www.cga.ct.gov/; 2) type in the bill number next to “Number” at top of screen,
then click “GO”. You might want to review Bill 6380, which seeks to implement the
Governor’s budget, and Bill 1013, which seeks to implement the Governor’s social services
budget recommendations.

The address for all legislators at the State Capitol is:
(Legislator's Name) Legislative Office Building Hartford, CT 06106-1591

Telephone Numbers for all legislators are:

Senate Democrats
(860) 240-8600 1-800-842-1420

Senate Republicans
(860) 240-8800 1-800-842-1421

House Democrats
Leadership: (860) 240-8500 1-800-842-1902

Rank and File: (860) 240-8585 1-800-842-8267

House Republicans

Leadership: (860) 240-8700 1-800-842-1423
Rank and File: (860) 240-8787 1-800-842-8270
                

The Legislature’s Committee deadlines for action on bills
   

Aging - deadline was 3/10/11           Human Services        3/24/11
    Appropriations         4/26/11         Insurance – deadline was 3/17/11
    Children – deadline was 3/10/11        Judiciary             4/15/11
    Fin., Rev. & Bonding 4/27/11           Public Health         4/1/11
    GAE                    4/4/11          Transportation – deadline was 3/21/11
    Housing – deadline was 3/15/11         Veterans Affairs – deadline was 3/10/11

Remember: This year’s legislative session ends June 8, 2011

PCAs and SEIU

HB 6486, AN ACT CONCERNING HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PERSONAL CARE ATTENDANT WORKFORCE COUNCIL, has been given a Joint Favorable report by the Human Services Committee of the state General Assembly and is on its way to the floor of the House of Representatives. This action came about in spite of the strong opposition of employers of personal care attendants (individuals with physical disabilities) and PCAs themselves. Here are excerpts from testimony given at a public hearing on the bill by Collaborative Executive Director Stan Kosloski:

“HB 6486 is being pursued aggressively by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), not by the ultimate beneficiaries, individuals with disabilities. It has the potential to do great harm to the special relationship between the employer with a disability and his or her personal care attendant. That relationship is an unusual and intimate one, based on mutual respect, teamwork, and concern for one another's well being. When an employer has trusting relationships with a group of personal assistants, good things happen.  Supports are provided consistently. There is good backup.  Turnover is reduced. 

In HB 6486 the SEIU wants to create a “workforce council” that will be costly to the state and will ultimately lead to the unionization of personal assistants. The bottom line: this is a case of David and Goliath, and I respectfully request the Human Services Committee come down on the side of David”.

Although the bill was voted out favorably by the Human Services Committee, it was by a one vote margin, with several of the “yes” voters indicating real concerns about the bill’s efficacy. Individuals wishing to oppose the bill are encouraged to contact their legislators. There is also a Facebook page set up to keep people informed of developments: Stop the SEIU from Hijacking Personal Assistance Services in Connecticut.

 

Expanding Opportunities for In-Home Support Services

Although the Governor’s proposal to dramatically expand the MFP program is an exciting development, little is being done to keep older adults and people with disabilities out of institutions in the first place. Hundreds of CT residents sit on Medicaid waiver waiting lists, at risk of being institutionalized at any time. A group of advocates have submitted a proposal, SB 297, AN ACT CONCERNING AN AMENDMENT TO THE MEDICAID STATE PLAN UNDER SECTION 1915(i) OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT TO PROVIDE HOME CARE SERVICES, that directs DSS to pursue a 1915(i) amendment of the Medicaid state plan. It is designed to achieve the objective of improving access to home and community-based services (HCBS) for individuals with disabilities and older adults by:

•    overcoming waiver “silos” by utilizing non-financial eligibility criteria that relate to functional limitations as opposed to age, diagnosis, condition or disability;

•    expanding coverage for otherwise eligible individuals who are currently waitlisted for service under the various waivers (e.g. ABI, PCA); and

•    enhancing federal match for individuals whose services are currently funded exclusively out of state funds

Connecticut’s current means of providing Medicaid-funded HCBS is fractured and presents many barriers to individuals who want to remain at home. As a result of capacity constraints, many otherwise eligible individuals have been waitlisted and must endure long wait times for service. Individuals and professionals alike are challenged by the “silo” effect of Medicaid waivers, each of which are associated with distinct age, diagnostic or disability-specific eligibility criteria. Further, Connecticut is supporting many individuals exclusively through state funding, the cost of whose services could be eligible for Federal Medical Assistance Payment (FMAP).

The bill has had a hearing before the Human Services Committee, who have taken no action as yet on the proposal due to concerns about its cost. Advocates are encouraged to contact their legislators to indicate their support for SB 297.

Proposed Cuts to Home Care

In a related matter, legislators are considering a proposal by Governor Malloy to restrict the access of seniors with disabilities to home care services.  The proposal significantly increases cost-shares and closes part of the state-funded Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders—a successful state program that prevents nursing home placement for thousands of seniors. 

For years, Connecticut has been working to provide residents with more home and community-based long-term care options, not only because it’s what people want, but because it costs less.  On average, the state can provide home and community-based care for three people for the cost of serving one person in a nursing facility.

The Governor’s proposal to increase the cost-share for seniors on the state-funded program by an average of $90/month is moving Connecticut in the wrong direction.  This cost-share is in addition to the $60/month increase these same individuals were asked to pay just last year, meaning that the average person would pay $150 per month if this proposal is adopted. CT AARP reports that more than 80% of seniors on the state-funded home care program have incomes of less than $22,000 per year. 

In addition to the drastic cost-share increase, the current proposal also would cap enrollment in the Home Care Program for certain seniors at risk of short term nursing facility and/or hospital placement, who can otherwise live independently in the community with minimal support. Together the proposed changes will have serious negative consequences for the state’s elderly population that are struggling to stay in their homes and communities, and could force many into more costly nursing home care.  Readers are asked to contact your state legislator and ask them stand up and be counted by opposing any further increase in the cost-share and keeping the Home Care Program open.

Governor Malloy holding Town Forums Statewide

 

Governor Malloy has been visiting town halls across the state (one for every municipality with a daily newspaper) to hear your response to his proposed budget. The remaining scheduled events are listed below. It is very important that the Governor hears from YOU as to what issues are important to you, your family, and your community this legislative session. Please try to attend one of these local forums so that you can help set the tone of the discussion and ask important questions pertaining to your legislative priorities:

GREENWICH - March 28, 7-8 PM – Eastern Middle School Auditorium – 51 Hendrie Avenue

MANCHESTER - March 29, 7-8 PM – Manchester CC, SBM Charitable Foundation Building Auditorium – Great Path

WINDHAM - March 30, 7-8 PM – Windham Middle School Auditorium – 123 Quarry Street

NORWALK - April 4, 7-8 PM – City Hall Concert Hall – 125 East Avenue

NEW BRITAIN - April 5, 7-8 PM – Trinity-On-Main

DANBURY - April 6, 7-8 PM – Rogers Park Middle School Auditorium – 21 Memorial Drive

MIDDLETOWN – April 12, 7-8 PM – Middletown High School Auditorium – 200 LaRosa Lane

Dial-A-Ride Service Funding Threatened

A proposal being considered as part of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's budget - cutting matching grants provided for Dial-A-Ride services statewide - is a concern for senior transportation providers, who said it will affect their ability to provide on-demand service to senior and disabled residents for the next two years. The proposal to cut funding of $8 million to $6 million in the 2012-13 state budget would curtail the number of Dial-A-Ride trips senior organizations provided to residents 62 and over and younger residents with disabilities. Providers would need to assign higher priority to trips for medical appointments over those for shopping, cutting off an option for senior citizens and disabled residents to stay mobile.

Need Income Tax Prep Assistance?

United Way 2-1-1 can help you get connected to free income tax preparation support by VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) sites and AARP Tax-Aide Income Tax Assistance sites throughout the state. Call 2-1-1 and find out whether you qualify for free income tax preparation help, where to go to get help, and what information to bring to the site. In some locations, 2-1-1 even schedules appointments to get your tax return prepared. For a listing of all free tax preparation sites, go to http:// www.211ct.org/referweb/Search.aspx.

The IRS has put together several tips to help make your tax filing experience easier this year.

1. Visit the IRS Website: In 2010, more than 304 million visits were made to http://www.irs.gov. Make 1040 Central your first stop to learn the latest news and find answers to your questions about tax filing.

2. Use Free File: Let Free File do the hard work for you with brand-name tax software or online fillable forms. It's available exclusively at http://www/irs.gov. If you made $58,000 or less, you qualify for free tax software that is offered through a private-public partnership with manufacturers. If you made more or are comfortable preparing your own tax return, there's Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic versions of IRS paper forms. Visit www.irs.gov/freefile to review your options.

3. Try IRS e-file: IRS e-file has become the safe, easy and most common way to file a tax return. Last year, 70 percent of taxpayers used IRS e-file. Starting in 2011, many tax preparers will be required to use e-file. If you owe taxes, you have payment options to file immediately and pay later (by the tax deadline). Best of all, combine e-file with direct deposit and you can get your refund in as few as 10 days.

4. Don’t Panic if You Can’t Pay: If you cannot pay the full amount of taxes you owe by the mid-April deadline, you should still file your return by the deadline and pay as much as you can to avoid penalties and interest. You should also contact the IRS to discuss your payment options at 800-829-1040. The agency may be able to provide some relief such as an installment agreement. To find out more about this simple and convenient process type “Online Payment Agreement” in the search box on the IRS.gov homepage.

5. Request an Extension of Time to File – But Pay on Time: If the mid-April tax deadline clock runs out, you can get an automatic six-month extension of time to file through October 17. However, this extension of time does not give you more time to pay any taxes due. If you have not paid at least 90 percent of the total tax due by the April deadline you may also be subject to an Estimated Tax Penalty. To obtain an extension, just file Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. Form 4868 is available for downloading at http://www.irs.gov or you can call 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676) and have a paper form mailed to you.

Elder Law Project Gets Support from Pfizer

Cheryl Feuerman, Project Manager, Consumer Law Project for Elders at Connecticut Legal Services, Inc. (CLS) has announced that the Law Project has entered into a Pro Bono project with the Pfizer Corporation to provide volunteer attorneys to assist with hotline calls.  So far, fourteen Pfizer attorneys have volunteered to take one call per month from the Law Project hotline. 

  

CLPE offers free legal assistance on consumer matters to people in Connecticut who are 60 or over. For further information contact Cheryl or Kevin Brophy at Connecticut Legal Services, Inc., PO Box 258, Willimantic, CT 06226-0258 – Phone: 1-860-456-1761.

A Tribute to Suzanne Liquerman

The Collaborative sadly notes the passing of Suzanne Liquerman, one of the founders of the ADA Coalition of CT and the CT Youth Leadership Forum. At the time of her death Suzanne was the CT Department of Labor’s lead disability program navigator. Memorial contributions may be made to the Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care at 2800 Main Street, Bridgeport, CT 06606 or American Cancer Society at 372 Danbury Rd. Wilton, CT 06897. To leave an online condolence visit www.mullinsfh.com.

ADACC Offers Training for Municipal ADA Coordinators

The Americans with Disabilities Act Coalition of CT will present “To Boldly Go Where Everyone Else Has Gone Before”, a workshop for municipal ADA Coordinators, on Wednesday, April 27 from 9:30 am – 12:30 pm at the Cromwell Town Hall (41 West Street – Rm 224-225 - Cromwell, CT 06416). There is a nominal workshop fee of $10. This workshop has been designed for both veteran ADA Coordinators (as a refresher) and for newbie’s (the fundamentals). Learn about the rights of employees with disabilities and the responsibility of your city or town to make its programs accessible. There will also be time to review your responsibilities as ADA Coordinator to ensure your municipality meets its administrative obligations.

To register, or if you need accommodations to participate (sign language interpreter, material in large print), call Theresa Strong at 860-632-3476 or e-mail her at tstrong@cromwellct.com by April 6, 2011.

Oak Hill to Run Summer Employment Program

Oak Hill, also known as the Connecticut Institute for the Blind, will run its sixth annual “LEEP”  (Low vision/blind Education Employment Program), this summer. The program will begin on Sunday, July 17, 2011 and end on Saturday, July 23, 2011 and will be housed at the University of Hartford Campus.

LEEP is a week long, overnight fully funded program for students 15-21 years old with low vision or blindness. During LEEP, the students will live on a college campus with Oak Hill staff and will have the opportunity to experience many new and exciting challenges. Some of the program’s objectives are:

• to increase knowledge via the use of assistive technology

• to enhance daily living skills

• to gain exposure to college life

• to participate in recreational activities

• to learn job interviewing techniques

• and to increase self advocacy skills

There is no cost to the student to attend LEEP, but space is limited. In order to begin the selection process, you must apply no later than May 1. Selection will be determined by a selection committee. Successful applicants will be notified of their acceptance into the program by June 1^st.

If interested, or for more information, contact Steve Famiglietti, 860-286-3100 or famigliettis@ciboakhill.org or Karin Agritelly, 860-286-3105 or agritellyk@ciboakhill.org.

New Federal Poverty Guidelines

The latest federal poverty guidelines have been released. The guidelines are used to determine income eligibility for many local, state, and federal programs including SNAP (Food Stamps), HUSKY, ConnPACE, Head Start and energy assistance programs. The guidelines will go into effect on April 1 for many state programs, and can be found at www.211ct.org/focus/guidelines.asp.

Greater Bridgeport Disability Advocates

The Greater Bridgeport Disability Advocacy Collaborative is developing a strategic plan for the implementation of a volunteer handicapped parking program. The Advocacy Group meets monthly from 12 pm until 2 pm at Bridgeport City Hall, 45 Lyon Terrace, Bridgeport. For more information or to join the group contact Larry Robinson at lrobinson@drcfc.org or 203-378-6977 ext. 115. Upcoming meeting dates are on April 21 and May 19.

The Disability Resource Center of Fairfield County, sponsor of the Greater Bridgeport advocacy group, is also planning outreach efforts in the Norwalk area. Contact Yohanna Williams at ywilliams@drcfc.org or 203-378-6977 ext. 110 if you are in the Norwalk area and would like more information about the Center.

The City of Hartford Hosts 4th Annual Fair Housing Month Celebration

 

2011 marks the 43rd Anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act.  The Fair Housing Act - also known as Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act - was enacted on April 11, 1968, and each April the City of Hartford honors the occasion by rededicating itself to equal housing opportunities for all.

The Fair Housing Act protects the rights of every individual and family to live in the home of their dreams, in the neighborhood of their choice, and prohibits discrimination concerning the sale, rental and financing of housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age and family status. This celebration is also an opportunity to learn about the Fair Housing Act and discuss ways to address and eradicate housing discrimination in the community.

 

For additional information and pre-registration please contact Ms. Elda Sinani, Fair Housing Officer, at (860)757-9275 or sinae001@hartford.gov.

Discussion on Husky

Covering Connecticut’s Kids & Families (CCKF) will hold its quarterly coalition meeting on Tuesday, March 29th from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the Comfort Inn & Suites, 900 East Main Street in Meriden. Updates will be provided on HUSKY program eligibility and Access to Care, and immigrant coverage in HUSKY, as well as changes to HUSKY and Medicaid.  Lastly, there will be overview of health care reform.

If you are interested in attending, or have questions, contact Sharon Langer at slanger@ctkidslink.org or (860) 548-1661. 

Facilitator Training to be Offered in Middletown

Focus On Recovery-United, Inc. (FOR-U) is presenting Pathways FOR-U Facilitator Training, a 5-Day Intensive Train the Trainers workshop from Monday, May 16 thru Friday, May 20. The training will run Monday-Thursday from 9:00 am-4:30 pm and Friday from 9:00 am-3:00 pm, and will he held at the Focus On Recovery-United Training Center in Middletown.

Pathways to Recovery is a tool to help people move forward in mental health recovery. It is an extensive self-help experience that orients people to recovery, helps them to identify their personal strengths and dreams, and refocuses them on reclaiming positive sources of identity and a life beyond being a person with a psychiatric disability or a full-time consumer of mental health services. It helps people think about and plan how to live a full life, despite their psychiatric history or problems.

This 5-Day Intensive Seminar Training is open to anyone who is committed to facilitate workshops based on the Pathways to Recovery Workbook. Upon successful completion of the Pathways FOR-U Facilitator Training, including the practical requirements, you will receive a Pathways FOR-U Certificate of Completion. With this, you will then be required to facilitate a 12-Week Pathways FOR-U Seminar Training at you agency or a community location. Upon the successful completion of that workshop and the required elements, you will receive your Pathways FOR-U Facilitator Certificate.

The week-long Facilitator Trainings are offered by FOR-U at a cost of $300 per person. Limited scholarships and spaces may be available for qualified applicants demonstrating financial need. For seminar training details, prerequisite & registration information, contact: Focus On Recovery-United, Inc., 100 Riverview Center, Suite 272, Middletown, CT 06457, Tel: (860) 704-0556 (Toll Free In CT: 1 (866) 255-5029), or by Email: focusonrecovery@gmail.com. The program’s Website is : www.focusonrecovery.org.

Other Upcoming Events

Saturday, March 26th, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm - 5th Annual “Summer Options” for Families Seeking Special Needs Programs - Trumbull Public Library, 33 Quality Street, Trumbull - sponsored by Trumbull Parents of Students with Learning Differences and the Kennedy Center - find out information about summer 2011 programs and services for children and adults with disabilities - the event is FREE and open to the public - to participate or for additional information email: TPSLDSummerExpo@gmail.com.

Tuesday, March 29, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm - Advances in Autism in Connecticut 2011 - at the Gray Conference Center at the University of Hartford – sponsored by
CT FEAT - the $25 registration fee also includes a buffet lunch - Andy Bondy will discuss Dealing w/Difficult Behaviors at Home & in the Community

- Kathy Dyer will talk about How to Teach Children to Ask for What They Want at Home & School
-
Greg Smith will talk about Video Modeling & Video Self-Modeling- Carolann Cormier will talk about iPad Applications to use w/Individuals w/Autism- for more information go to: www.ctfeat.org.

April

Tuesday, April 5, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm – Low Vision Open House - Disability Resource Center - 80 Ferry Boulevard, suite 210 – Stratford - Meet the experts! Learn how to deal with Blindness & Low Vision – representatives from the Board of Education & Services for the Blind, CRIS Radio, Lions Low Vision Center, and the Library for the Blind will be present - RSVP to Fran 203-378-6977 or fsinish@drcfc.org

Thursday, April 28, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm - the Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center and the Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities are sponsoring a one-day Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Conference at the CCSU Institute of Technology and Business Development in New Britain - topics will include: special education law; rights and responsibilities; test and measurements to chart progress and regression; strategies for effective advocacy; and a special focus on the proposed "new" Connecticut regulations - registration is $30 for parents/students, $50 for professionals/providers.  A limited number of parent scholarships are available. For more information, contact CPAC at 1-800-445-2722.

Thursday, April 28^th, 1:30 pm – at the Greater Hartford Transit District, One Union Place, Hartford - “Mobility Choices in CT: Making a Difference”, a panel discussion sponsored by CACT and Connect-Ability. This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. Registrations will be accepted as space permits – first come, first serve. To register contact Jennifer Erenberg at The Kennedy Center (203) 365-8522 Ext. 273 by April 20, or email her at jerenberg@kennedyctr.org.

Saturday, April 30 - 21st Annual ASCONN Statewide Conference on Autism, featuring Dr. Paula Kluth, author of "Toward More Inclusive Classrooms" and Dr. Stephen Shore, a speaker “from the Spectrum" - at the Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford - Dr. Kluth is a consultant, teacher, author, advocate and scholar - Dr. Shore was viewed as "too sick" to be treated and recommended for institutionalization when he was first diagnosed. Now a university professor, Dr. Shore teachers courses on special education and autism as well as presenting nationally on adult issues pertaining to education, relationships, employment, advocacy and disclosure. Registration and sponsorship information at http://www.autismsocietyofct.org/annual.htm.

May

Friday, May 6, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm, CT Business Leadership Network (BLN) sponsors a Disability Employment Conference and Career Fair – Manchester Community College - for more information contact Melissa Marshall, Executive Director, CT BLN at (860) 561-1232 or melissa.marshall@snet.net.

Wednesday, May 11, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. – “From Brain Scan to Lesson Plan: Reading Research Informing Instruction” - Margie Gillis, Ed.D., Research Affiliate at Haskins Laboratories, will discuss what research, including brain, cognitive and applied classroom-based studies, have taught us about how to teach children to read - particularly those who struggle. Dr. Gillis is co-founder and vice president of Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities and northeast regional representative of the International Dyslexic Association – the workshop will be held at Norwalk City Hall, 125 East Avenue, Community Room, Norwalk. Registration is recommended: rsvp@spednetwilton.org  or 203-563-9994. Co-sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton, Norwalk Public Schools, CACLD, and Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities.

Thursday, May 19, 1:00 – 3:30 pm - meeting of the BRS State Rehabilitation Council - BRS Waterbury Office, Conference Room 249, Thomaston Avenue, Waterbury - open to the public. If you plan to attend, need accommodations, or have questions, please contact Evelyn Oliver Knight at 860-424-4871 or evelyn.knight@ct.gov. Accommodations must be requested in advance.

June

June 4 - People First CT Annual Conference at the Four Points hotel in Meriden!! Stay tuned …..

National News

The following statement by Candace Low, Executive Director of Independence Unlimited in Hartford, describes the impact of President Obama’s proposed budget on centers for independent living:

“The 2012 budget proposal has significant impact on the funding for the Centers for Independent Living. The President proposes to eliminate the current funding mechanisms for Part B and Part C Centers, and replace them with the new Grants for Independent Living Program. The proposal claims that the consolidated program would provide formula grants to the states to support the provision of independent living services through CILs and hold the states accountable. This could have a negative impact for Connecticut Centers. Direct funding is currently required under the Rehabilitation Act. Part B and C dollars are considered core funding that supports the CILs and provides infrastructure for other programs such as Money Follows the Person.

• CT CILs currently receive Part C funding direct from the Federal government. Part B funding is funneled through the state. Since CILs are mandated to be consumer controlled, the direct funding allows for consumer control in designating the expenditure of funds. If all monies are funneled through the state, the CILs will no longer be in the position to make decisions on how the money is to be spent.

• CT CILs are also mandated to be community-based. The services beyond the mandated core services are to be consumer and community responsive. Direct funding for the Part C monies provides a mechanism for this to happen. If all funding is funneled through the state, the CILs could lose their ability to be community responsive because the state may impose directives on how the money can be spent and require all CILs to follow a state initiative rather than respond to the needs of their individual communities.

• Direct funding of Part C dollars ensures that the CILs can remain operating while waiting for the state contracts to be implemented or payment made. Funneling all monies through the state could put some CT CILs in danger of temporarily closing while waiting for contracts and/or funding.

• The consolidation of Part B and C funds may result in decreased funding for the CILs. The state will be entitled to a portion of the dollars for administration. There is no requirement that a specific portion of the funding go to the Centers.• Formula grant funding may result in decreased statewide funding for the Centers.

• Funding the CILs through the state has proven in the past to be inefficient and lacking in consumer control.

• CILs have a significant role in the rebalancing from institutions to home and community based services. Funding cuts or delays will negatively impact the capacity of the CILs to fulfill their role.”

• by Candace Low, Executive Director, Independence Unlimited, Inc.

New ADA Regulations Go into Effect

On March 15 revised regulations amending Title II and Title III of the ADA went into effect. Appendix A to each regulation includes a section-by-section analysis of the rule and responses to public comments on the proposed rule. Appendix B to the Title III regulation discusses major changes in the ADA Standards for Accessible Design and responds to public comments received on the proposed rules.

What are the changes?

Service Animals

The definition of service animals now only includes dogs. Other animals, whether wild or domestic, do not qualify as service animals. Dogs must be individually trained to do work or perform tasks. Dogs that are not trained to perform tasks that mitigate the effects of a disability, including dogs that are used purely for emotional support, are not service animals. The regulations also clarify that the animal must be under the handler’s control at all times, that the handler is responsible for the animal’s care and what questions can and can’t be asked a person indicates his or her dog is a service animal.

Miniature Horses

Although not under the definition of service animals, the regulations permit the use of trained miniature horses as alternatives to dogs, where appropriate. Assessment factors to determine appropriateness include the type, size, and weight of the miniature horse; whether the facility can accommodate these features; whether the handler has sufficient control of the miniature horse; whether the miniature horse is housebroken; and whether the miniature horse's presence in a specific facility compromises legitimate safety requirements that are necessary for safe operation.

Wheelchairs and Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices

The regulations distinguish wheelchairs and "other power-driven mobility devices” (OPDMDs). OPDMDs are mobility devices not designed for people with disabilities, but which are often used by people with disabilities (such as the Segway). Wheelchairs must be permitted in all areas open to pedestrian use. OPMDs must be permitted unless their use would fundamentally alter programs, services, or activities; create a direct threat or create a safety hazard.

Ticketing (not parking tickets - tickets to sporting events, concerts, theater, etc.)

Tickets for accessible seating must be available to purchase during the same hours, during the same stages of ticket sales (pre-sales, promotions, lotteries, wait-lists, and general sales) and through the same methods of distribution (phone, in person, internet, third party) as tickets for non-accessible seating. The regulations also include requirements concerning information about the location and availability of accessible seating, hold and release of accessible seating to persons with out disabilities, prevention of the fraudulent purchase of accessible seating, and the ability to purchase multiple tickets when buying accessible seating.

Effective Communication

The regulations include video remote interpreting (VRI) services as a type of auxiliary aid that may be used to provide effective communication. To ensure that VRI is effective, the regulations include performance standards for VRI and requires training for users of the technology. The regulations state that a minor child may not be used to interpret or facilitate communication except under emergency situations.

The new ADA rules also adopt the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, which have been retooled to be more user-friendly for building code officials, builders, and architects, and have been harmonized with state and local accessibility codes. The 2010 standards also include, for the first time, standards on making swimming pools, parks, golf courses, boating facilities, exercise clubs, and other recreation facilities accessible for individuals with disabilities. Entities covered by the ADA have until March 15, 2012 to comply with the 2010 Standards.

More ADA Title II and Title III regulations changes go into effect next year on March 15, 2012.

To view the revised ADA standards, go to www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm.

“Enhancing the effectiveness of disability activism by organizing and empowering individuals, families, groups, and organizations!”

Empowerment! Opportunity! Justice!

April-May, 2011

To include information in next month’s Bulletin please contact us:

Stan Kosloski, 860-614-8351 or StanKosloski@ct-dac.org

Jayne Kleinman, 203-631-4800 or JayneKleinman@ct-dac.org

Website: http://www.ct-dac.org/contactus.htm

In This Issue	Page
News from the State legislature: Appropriations Comm. deadline, MFP expansion, home care cuts, PCAs and SEIU, driver training program, NAMI-CT reaching out, sexual assault bill moves forward	2
What the legislature will not (but should) do this year	5
Malloy supports supported housing	7
Macy picked to head DDS, new federal CMS grant, and Family Empowerment Task Force to host Capitol meeting	8
Suzanne Liquerman tribute, ADACC offers workshop for ADA Coordinators, & BLN hosts conference and career fair	9
Oak Hill offers employment course & FOR-U offers facilitator training	10
CACLD has advocates & People First to hold annual conference	11
Kennedy Center to offer transportation workshop in Danbury & other upcoming events	12
National News: House budget passes, new DHHS initiatives, and updated ADA Fact Sheets	13

This Year’s Legislative Session Ends June 8, 2011

2011 being an odd-numbered year, the state General Assembly is creating a two-year state budget, and given the very challenging economic environment the term “shared sacrifice” is the most bandied-about phrase at the State Capitol. Included below are the Collaborative’s best effort to summarize some of the critical legislative issues that affect individuals with disabilities and their families.

Role of the Appropriations Committee

The Appropriations Committee has an April 26 deadline to act on bills that are before the committee.  It is anticipated that the committee will vote on the budget bill on

April 19 or 20. The Appropriations Committee must complete its work on the budget bill, and any other bills it wishes to approve, by 5:00 pm on Tuesday, April 26.  

By the end of this week, therefore, we should have the Governor’s budget (submitted in early February), the legislature’s budget (essentially the majority party Democrats’ budget) and a budget put forth by the Republicans (also due out this week). Both the Governor and the Democrats in the legislature want to have the budget finalized by mid-May.

MFP Expansion

As previously reported, Governor Dan Malloy has proposed a significant expansion of the Money Follows the Person (MFP) Program, operated by the Department of Social Services.  The administration has set a goal of moving 2,251 individuals from nursing facilities to homes in the community by June, 2013.  And 5,200 people will be moved to the community by 2016. Since MFP went operational two years ago, over 500 individuals have been transitioned out of nursing facilities and other institutions.

Proposed Cuts to Home Care

The Appropriations Committee is considering a proposal by Governor Malloy to restrict the access of seniors with disabilities to home care services.  The proposal significantly increases out-of-pocket expenses (cost-shares) and closes part of the state-funded Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders—a successful state program that prevents nursing facility placement for thousands of seniors with disabilities. 

For years, Connecticut has been working to provide residents with more home and community-based long-term care options, not only because it’s what people want, but because it costs less.  On average, the state can provide home and community-based care for three people for the cost of serving one person in a nursing facility.

According to AARP-CT, the Governor’s proposal to increase the cost-share for seniors on the state-funded program by an average of $90/month is moving Connecticut in the wrong direction.  This cost-share is in addition to the $60/month increase these same individuals were asked to pay just last year, meaning that the average person would pay $150 per month if this proposal is adopted. CT AARP reports that more than 80% of seniors on the state-funded home care program have incomes of less than $22,000 per year. 

In addition to the drastic cost-share increase, the current proposal also would cap enrollment in the Home Care Program for certain seniors at risk of short term nursing facility and/or hospital placement, who can otherwise live independently in the community with minimal support. Together the proposed changes will have serious negative consequences for individuals who are struggling to stay in their homes and communities, and could force many into more costly nursing home care.  Readers are asked to contact your state legislator and ask them stand up and be counted by opposing any further increase in the cost-sharing ratio and keeping the Home Care Program open.

PCAs and SEIU

HB 6486, AN ACT CONCERNING HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PERSONAL CARE ATTENDANT WORKFORCE COUNCIL, is still alive. It was given a Joint Favorable report by the Human Services Committee in mid-March and is now in the hands of the House of Representatives. This action came about in spite of the strong opposition of employers of personal care attendants (individuals with physical disabilities) and PCAs themselves.

HB 6486 is being pursued aggressively by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), not by the ultimate beneficiaries, individuals with disabilities. The SEIU wants to create a “workforce council” that will be costly to the state and will ultimately lead to the unionization of personal assistants. It has the potential to do great harm to the special relationship between the employer with a disability and his or her personal care attendant. That relationship is an unusual and intimate one, based on mutual respect, teamwork, and concern for one another's well being. When an employer has trusting relationships with a group of personal assistants, good things happen.  Supports are provided consistently. There is good backup.  Turnover is reduced. 

A Facebook page has been set up to keep people informed of developments. To learn more go to: “Stop the SEIU from Hijacking Personal Assistance Services in Connecticut”.

Governor Proposes Elimination of Driver Training Program

Consistent with his commitment to “shared sacrifice”, Governor Malloy has proposed the elimination of a driver training program that has enabled thousands of individuals with physical disabilities to obtain their driver’s licenses, and for many of them to obtain or retain a job. Lack of access to transportation has been identified as one of the primary reasons individuals with disabilities have been unable to enter the job market. Isn’t this a counterproductive “shared sacrifice” initiative?

The program has existed in state statute since 1976, and has been in place administratively since shortly after WW II. Here is the language of the statute that is proposed for repeal:

Sec. 14-11b. Handicapped driver training program. (a) There shall be within the Department of Motor Vehicles a unit for the purpose of evaluating and training handicapped persons in the operation of motor vehicles. There shall be assigned to such unit a handicapped driver consultant who shall be under the direction of the commissioner and who shall be responsible for overseeing the handicapped driver training program. In addition to such consultant there shall be assigned to the handicapped driver training unit such staff as is necessary for the orderly administration of the handicapped driver training program. The handicapped driver consultant and such other personnel as are assigned to the handicapped driver training unit shall, while engaged in the evaluation, instruction or examination of a handicapped person, have the authority and immunities with respect to such activities as are granted under the general statutes to motor vehicle inspectors.

      (b) Any resident of this state who has a serious physical or mental handicap which does not render him incapable of operating a motor vehicle and who must utilize special equipment in order to operate a motor vehicle and who cannot obtain instruction in the operation of a motor vehicle through any alternate program, including but not limited to, other state, federal or privately operated drivers' schools shall be eligible for instruction under the Department of Motor Vehicles handicapped driver training program.


NAMI-CT Reaching Out

NAMI-CT is reaching out to “grasstops” advocates. As noted above, it is highly likely that the budget from the Legislature – through the Appropriations Committee - will come out this week. The organization is asking advocates to get calls into the Chairs, leadership and members of the Appropriations Committee to ask that they:

 

1)    oppose the co-pay proposals for both Medicaid and for people who are dually eligible on Medicare Part D that will restrict access to treatment and medications and ultimately cost the state more money. Many people with mental illnesses impacted by the $15 Part D co-pays imposed in the last budget are already rationing medications or not picking them up at all. These newest proposals will exacerbate these problems.

 

2)    support the Governor’s proposed budget for services that increase recovery opportunities and reduce expensive unnecessary and less productive costs, including: Service Capacity for Young Adults Transferring to the Adult System, Access to Community Mental Health Services, and Stable Supportive Housing

 Contact Alicia Woodsby, Public Policy Director, National Alliance on Mental Illness-CT (NAMI-CT) at 800-215-3021 or publicpolicy@namict.org with any questions or concerns.

Sexual Assault Bill Moves Ahead

Beth Leslie at OP&A reports that SB 918, AN ACT CONCERNING THE SEXUAL ASSAULT

OF PERSONS WHOSE ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE LACK OF CONSENT IS SUBSTANTIALLY

IMPAIRED was approved by the Judiciary Committee and will now go to the Senate for action. The purpose of the bill is to provide that sexual intercourse or sexual contact with a person whose ability to communicate lack of consent to such sexual activity is substantially impaired because of a mental or physical condition constitutes the crime of sexual assault.

Background Information on State Legislature

To review the text of any bill before the General Assembly you must get the bill #. Then: 1) open http://www.cga.ct.gov/; 2) type in the bill number next to “Number” at top of screen, then click “GO”. You might want to review Bill 6380, which seeks to implement the Governor’s budget, and Bill 1013, which seeks to implement the Governor’s social services budget recommendations.

The address for all legislators at the State Capitol is:

(Legislator's Name) Legislative Office Building Hartford, CT 06106-1591

Telephone Numbers for all legislators are:

Senate Democrats

(860) 240-8600 1-800-842-1420

Senate Republicans

(860) 240-8800 1-800-842-1421

House Democrats

Leadership: (860) 240-8500 1-800-842-1902

Rank and File: (860) 240-8585 1-800-842-8267

House Republicans

Leadership: (860) 240-8700 1-800-842-1423

Rank and File: (860) 240-8787 1-800-842-8270 

What the Legislature Will Not Do This Year

(even though it makes sense and is cost-effective)

As noted above, the Governor has proposed to dramatically expand the MFP program, an exciting development that is supported by disability and elder advocates. Little is being done, however, to keep older adults and people with disabilities out of institutions in the first place. Hundreds of CT residents sit on Medicaid waiver waiting lists, at risk of being institutionalized at any time. On April 12 an article in the CT Mirror gave a good overview of a proposal submitted by a number of advocacy groups to reshape the community based long term care system. We print excerpts from that article below:

“Policymakers working to reshape the way long-term care is delivered in the state have long criticized what they call an institutional bias: Anyone who qualifies can get Medicaid coverage to live in a nursing home, but getting Medicaid to pay for home care is complicated.

To qualify, someone must fit into one of several specific programs, which don't cover the same services and have varying applications and requirements. The programs are capped, so someone who qualifies might end up on a waiting list.

Now advocates say they've identified a solution: An option in federal law, known as a 1915i state plan amendment, that would make it easier for people to access home and community-based services. It would also allow the state to move state-funded home-care programs into Medicaid and get partial reimbursement for the costs. But there's a catch: To take advantage of the option, states can't limit the programs. Anyone who qualifies for Medicaid home care coverage would get it. And the current eligibility requirements would need to be relaxed.

That could be good news for the more than 500 people on waiting lists for home care waiver programs, which cover adults with disabilities or acquired brain injury, or children with disabilities or complex medical needs. But for state officials grappling with a massive budget deficit, the prospect of creating a new entitlement program, where anyone who qualifies would get services, is a significant risk.

"In the current fiscal environment, creating a series of new entitlements would be cost-prohibitive," the state Department of Social Services said in testimony on a bill that would require the state to seek a 1915i amendment. The bill passed the legislature's Human Services Committee.

According to the legislature's nonpartisan Office of Fiscal Analysis, it would cost about $20.4 million a year to provide services to the 570 people currently on waiting lists; with federal reimbursement, the state would pay $10.2 million. The costs could increase if more people seek to enroll.

But using the 1915i option could also bring the state savings because it would move a portion of the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders, which is fully state-funded and has no enrollment limit, into Medicaid, bringing in federal reimbursement. If everyone in the program now met the requirements under the 1915i plan, the state could save about $27.8 million a year, according to OFA.

DSS is also looking into another program, called the state Balancing Incentive Payment Program, created under the federal health reform law for states that spend less than half of their Medicaid long-term care funding on home and community-based services. If Connecticut participated, it could get reimbursed for an extra 2 percent of its Medicaid long-term care costs, on top of the usual 50 percent.

Connecticut would also have to make changes if it participates: It would have to establish a single entry point system, wouldn't be allowed to tighten eligibility standards, and would have to aim to spend 50 percent of its Medicaid long-term care funds on home and community-based services by Oct. 1, 2015. That would be an increase from 35 percent in 2009.

Silos and barriers

Long-term care represents the largest piece of the state's $4 billion Medicaid budget. In the 2009 fiscal year, the state spent close to $2.5 billion on long-term care in Medicaid for about 40,000 people. Just under half received institutional care, but it accounted for 65 percent of the cost. The rest received home and community-based services.

Advocates for seniors and people with disabilities say making it easier to access home and community-based services would help the state reach that goal. Currently, the state uses a series of pilot programs and Medicaid waivers to cover home and community-based services, which have different criteria and are operated by different departments. They're often referred to as silos.

The Malloy administration has expanded one program, called Money Follows the Person, which helps people move out of nursing homes and receive home and community-based services. The administration set a goal of having 5,200 people moved out of nursing homes by 2016.

Advocates for rebalancing have applauded the move, but say that doing it without other changes in home care programs creates a perverse incentive. To qualify for Money Follows the Person, a person must be in a nursing home for three months. Advocates worry that people stuck on waiting lists for home care waiver programs could see going into a nursing home as a way to have a better shot at getting home services through Money Follows the Person.”

The bill proposed by advocates, SB 297, AN ACT CONCERNING AN AMENDMENT TO THE MEDICAID STATE PLAN UNDER SECTION 1915(i) OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT TO PROVIDE HOME CARE SERVICES, was reported out favorably by the legislature’s Human Services Committee and is awaiting action in the Senate.

The legislature’s Office of Fiscal Analysis (OFA) did a review of the potential cost of the plan amendment to the State. It found that 60 individuals were on the Brain Injury waiver waiting list, 110 on the PCA waiver waiting list, and 400 on the Katie Beckett waiting list. OFA then concluded: “The total cost for the 570 individuals on the waiting lists would be approximately $20. 4 million annually, which would result in a net state cost of $10. 2 million, due to the 50% federal Medicaid reimbursement. If the state receives an enhanced Medicaid rate (52%) due to meeting the program requirements of the Balancing Incentive Payment program, the state cost would be $9. 8 million. These costs could increase if additional individuals, not currently on the waiting lists, are eligible to enroll as a result of the amended plan”.

OFA did not address the liklihood that a substantial percentage of the individuals on waiting lists would be forced into nursing facilities, and the subsequent cost to the state that will unnecessarily be incurred.

Malloy Supports Supported Housing

After proposing $130 million in new capital spending for affordable and supportive housing in his new budget, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy told reporters March 25 that he intends to maintain that commitment to housing creation for low and moderate-income residents.

Malloy’s statement came after the State Bond Commission endorsed a $1.2 million low-interest loan for a 50-unit project adjacent to the Harbor Point development in Stamford. The project will generate 261 construction jobs according and will include eight 3-bedroom townhouses and 39 multi-bedroom units for families with incomes up to 60% of the area median income in a new structure and three in an existing historic structure. Ten units will be set aside for supportive housing.

Macy Picked to Head DDS

On April 7 Terry Macy of Madison was selected by Governor Malloy to serve as Commissioner of the state Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Macy has served as the Executive Director of SARAH Tuxis Residential & Community Resources, Inc. since 1990, where he led efforts to provide support to individuals with disabilities along the central Connecticut shoreline, focusing on direct care and creating environments where individuals with disabilities thrive. He led the agency to develop a culture of collaboration with community partners wherever possible to expand creative support systems, including the development of innovative and individualized supports for seniors.

 

Macy previously worked for seven years at DATAHR Rehabilitation Institute (currently Ability Beyond Disability) as Director of Vocational Services and Director of Residential Services, developing training programs, training staff in new work skills development programs, and growing services for persons with autism and traumatically brain injured adults. 

CT to Receive Federal Grant

The State of CT will receive a $1 million federal grant to help pioneer a coordinated system of care for elders and adults with disabilities covered by both Medicaid and Medicare – a group that now consumes the highest amount of taxpayer health care dollars. The so-called ‘dual eligible’ population – people poor enough to qualify for Medicaid and who also have Medicare because of age or disability – accounts for over $2 billion in Connecticut’s Medicaid expenditures. 

  

Individuals who are dually-eligible for Medicare and Medicaid represent about 19% of Connecticut’s Medicaid beneficiaries and 19% of the Medicare population.  However, they account for 58% of state Medicaid expenditures and 25% of Medicare’s expenditures.  

 

Approximately 60% of dually-eligible beneficiaries are over 65, and 40% have disabilities or are chronically ill.  Medicaid spending per dually-eligible individual in Connecticut is nearly twice the national average ($27,619, compared to $15,900 nationally), and Medicare spending per dually-eligible enrollee with a disability is $25,902, compared to $14,755 nationally).  Medicaid is funded jointly by the state and federal governments, while Medicare is federally-funded.

 

Family Empowerment Task Force to Hold Forum

On Saturday, June 18 beginning at 9:00 am the DDS Family Empowerment Task Force will host a special event in the Old Judiciary Room at the State Capitol. A panel of leaders in DDS services will speak about current challenges in the DDS system. Family members will then form working groups to draft specific tasks for the Task Force to address over the coming months. Terry Macy, the newly selected DDS Commissioner, has accepted an invitation to participate on the panel. The Arc of Connecticut, the Connecticut Community Providers Association and the Connecticut Association of Nonprofits have all confirmed their participation.

If you plan to attend, or have questions, e-mail Task Force Coordinator Walter Glomb at: family-empowerment@comcast.net.

A Tribute to Suzanne Liquerman

On April 27 at 4:00 pm a memorial service will be held in remembrance of Suzanne Liquerman who passed away in March. The event will be held at the Job Corps Academy, 100 William Campbell Street in Hartford. For information or directions call 860-952-1747 or 860-952-1701.

The Collaborative sadly notes the passing of Suzanne who was one of the founders of the ADA Coalition of CT and the CT Youth Leadership Forum. At the time of her death Suzanne was the CT Department of Labor’s lead disability program navigator. Memorial contributions may be made to the Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care at 2800 Main Street, Bridgeport, CT 06606 or American Cancer Society at 372 Danbury Rd. Wilton, CT 06897.

ADACC Offers Training for Municipal ADA Coordinators

The Americans with Disabilities Act Coalition of CT will present “To Boldly Go Where Everyone Else Has Gone Before”, a workshop for municipal ADA Coordinators, on Wednesday, April 27 from 9:30 am – 12:30 pm at the Cromwell Town Hall (41 West Street – Rm 224-225 - Cromwell, CT 06416). There is a nominal workshop fee of $10. This workshop has been designed for both veteran ADA Coordinators (as a refresher) and for newbie’s (the fundamentals). Learn about the rights of employees with disabilities and the responsibility of your city or town to make its programs accessible. There will also be time to review your responsibilities as ADA Coordinator to ensure your municipality meets its administrative obligations.

To register, send in a check for $10 made out to “ADACC” to Theresa Strong, ADA Coordinator for the Town of Cromwell (41 West Street – Cromwell, CT 06416), along with your name and municipality. If you need accommodations to participate (sign language interpreter, material in large print), call Theresa at 860-632-3476 or e-mail her at tstrong@cromwellct.com. The deadline for accommodations requests is Friday, April 22.

Making Work Work

On Friday, May 6, the CT Business Leadership Network (BLN) is sponsoring a Disability Employment Conference and Career Fair in the Arts, Science, and Technology Center at Manchester Community College. The conference aspect of the event will run from 10:00 am – 12:30 pm and include workshops for job seekers as well as employers. The Keynote speaker will be Mary Jane Paris, President and Founder of Positive Impact Consulting Services. A Career Fair is being offered following the conference from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Attendees are encouraged to bring copies of their resumes and “dress to impress”.

For more information contact Melissa Marshall, Executive Director, CT BLN at (860) 561-1232 or melissa.marshall@snet.net.

Oak Hill to Run Summer Employment Program

Oak Hill, also known as the Connecticut Institute for the Blind, will run its sixth annual “LEEP”  (Low vision/blind Education Employment Program) this summer, beginning on Sunday, July 17 and ending on Saturday, July 23.

LEEP is a week long, overnight fully funded program for students 15-21 years old with low vision or blindness. During LEEP, the students will live on campus at the University of Hartford with Oak Hill staff and will have the opportunity to experience many new and exciting challenges. Some of the program’s objectives are:

• to increase knowledge via the use of assistive technology

• to enhance daily living skills

• to gain exposure to college life

• to participate in recreational activities

• to learn job interviewing techniques

• and to increase self advocacy skills

There is no cost to attend LEEP, but space is limited. In order to begin the selection process, you must apply no later than May 1. Selection will be determined by a selection committee and successful applicants will be notified of their acceptance into the program by June 1^st.

If interested, or for more information, contact Steve Famiglietti, 860-286-3100 or famigliettis@ciboakhill.org or Karin Agritelly, 860-286-3105 or agritellyk@ciboakhill.org.

Facilitator Training to be Offered in Middletown

Focus On Recovery-United, Inc. (FOR-U) is presenting Pathways to Recovery Facilitator Training, a 5-Day Train the Trainers workshop from Monday, May 16 thru Friday, May 20. The training will be held at the Focus On Recovery-United Training Center in Middletown.

Pathways to Recovery is an intensive self-help experience that helps participants identify their personal strengths and dreams, and refocuses them on reclaiming positive sources of identity and a life beyond being a person with a psychiatric disability or a full-time consumer of mental health services. It helps people think about and plan how to live a full life, despite their psychiatric history or problems.

The Seminar Training is open to anyone who is committed to facilitate workshops based on the Pathways to Recovery Workbook. Upon successful completion of the Training, including the practical requirements, you will receive a Pathways FOR-U Certificate of Completion. With this, you will then be required to facilitate a 12-Week Pathways FOR-U Seminar Training at you agency or a community location. Upon the successful completion of that workshop and the required elements, you will receive your Pathways FOR-U Facilitator Certificate.

The Training is offered by FOR-U at a cost of $300 per person. Limited scholarships and spaces are available for qualified applicants demonstrating financial need. For Seminar Training details, prerequisites and registration information, contact: Focus On Recovery-United, Inc., 100 Riverview Center, Suite 272, Middletown, CT 06457, Tel: (860) 704-0556 (Toll Free In CT: 1 (866) 255-5029), or by Email: focusonrecovery@gmail.com. The program’s Website is : www.focusonrecovery.org.

Looking for an Advocate?

The CT Association of Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities (CACLD) has two experienced advocates on staff. Located in East Norwalk, their advocacy services include telephone or in person consultations, review of records and helping parents understand evaluations. Their advocates will explain the federal and state laws pertaining to special education and the child's rights to appropriate services and educational programs. They attend PPT meetings when necessary and educate the parents as to the importance of their role as a part of a team. The goal is to empower parents so that they can become knowledgeable, effective advocates for their children.

For more information or to schedule an appointment call 203-838-5010 or email them at cacld@optonline.net.

People First Annual Conference on June 4 in Meriden

On Saturday, June 4, from 8:30 am – 4:00 pm People First CT will hold its Annual Conference at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel in Meriden. Workshops will include such topics as “Interacting with the Police”, “Bullying and How Not To Be a Victim”, “Human Rights”, “Legislative Advocacy”, “Community Connections”, “Employment”, and more. The deadline to register is May 20 and the cost is $25. You may register by contacting People First of CT - C/O Arc of Connecticut - 43 Woodland St - Suite 260 - Hartford, CT 06105, phone: 860-246-6400.

People First of Connecticut is a statewide self-advocacy organization that believes that ALL people, with and without disabilities, should be treated equally and respected for their abilities. The organization works together with other similar organizations to make positive changes for people with disabilities. People First members encourage and advocate for choice, independence, freedom, respect, and dignity for everyone.

Kennedy Center Offers Public Transportation Forum

On Wednesday June 29, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm the Kennedy Center will be doing a Public Transportation presentation at Danbury's Senior Center’s Elmwood Hall . This workshop will include accessibility issues, how to obtain reduced rates, trip planning, other transit services and a demonstration of HART bus features. The workshop is free and promises to be a good opportunity for both the people who receive services and staff of provider agencies (especially residential and community support staff) to become transportation experts. Registration is required.

For more information or to register contact Jen Erenberg at the Kennedy Center: jerenberg@kennedyctr.org or phone: (203) 365-8522 x 273.

Other Upcoming Events

April

Wednesday, April 27, 6:30 – 8:00 pm, North Star welcomes a panel of young folks with autism to share their personal experiences of life on the spectrum. Have you ever wondered how someone with autism thinks?  How they feel? How the world looks to them compared to the way you see the world? Now is your chance to find out first-hand. The speakers will be from the Focus Alternative Learning Center in Canton. The event will be held at First Congregational Church of Derby, 137 Derby Avenue, Derby - RSVP to: Cathy Adamczyk at 203-751-2417 or cathy@northstarsupportgroup.com.

Thursday, April 28, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm - the Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center and the Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities are sponsoring a one-day Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Conference at the CCSU Institute of Technology and Business Development in New Britain - topics will include: special education law; rights and responsibilities; test and measurements to chart progress and regression; strategies for effective advocacy; and a special focus on the proposed "new" Connecticut regulations - registration is $30 for parents/students, $50 for professionals/providers.  A limited number of parent scholarships are available. For more information, contact CPAC at 1-800-445-2722.

Thursday, April 28^th, 1:30 pm – at the Greater Hartford Transit District, One Union Place, Hartford - “Mobility Choices in CT: Making a Difference”, a panel discussion sponsored by CT Association for Community Transportation (CACT) and Connect-Ability. This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. Registrations will be accepted as space permits – first come, first serve. To register contact Jennifer Erenberg at The Kennedy Center (203) 365-8522 Ext. 273 by April 20, or email her at jerenberg@kennedyctr.org.

Saturday, April 30 - 21st Annual ASCONN Statewide Conference on Autism, featuring Dr. Paula Kluth, author of "Toward More Inclusive Classrooms" and Dr. Stephen Shore, a speaker “from the Spectrum" - at the Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford - Dr. Kluth is a consultant, teacher, author, advocate and scholar - Dr. Shore was viewed as "too sick" to be treated and recommended for institutionalization when he was first diagnosed. Now a university professor, Dr. Shore teaches courses on special education and autism as well as presents nationally on adult issues pertaining to education, relationships, employment, advocacy and disclosure. Registration and sponsorship information can be found at http://www.autismsocietyofct.org/annual.htm.

May

Wednesday, May 11, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. – “From Brain Scan to Lesson Plan: Reading Research Informing Instruction” - Margie Gillis, Ed.D., Research Affiliate at Haskins Laboratories, will discuss what research, including brain, cognitive and applied classroom-based studies, have taught us about how to teach children to read - particularly those who struggle. Dr. Gillis is co-founder and vice president of Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities and northeast regional representative of the International Dyslexic Association – the workshop will be held at Norwalk City Hall, 125 East Avenue, Community Room, Norwalk. Registration is recommended: rsvp@spednetwilton.org  or 203-563-9994.

Thursday, May 19, 1:00 – 3:30 pm - meeting of the BRS State Rehabilitation Council - BRS Waterbury Office, Conference Room 249, Thomaston Avenue, Waterbury - open to the public. If you plan to attend, need accommodations, or have questions, please contact Evelyn Oliver Knight at 860-424-4871 or evelyn.knight@ct.gov. Accommodations must be requested in advance.

Tuesday, May 24, 5:00 – 8:00 pm, the Disability Resource Center of Fairfield County will hold its Annual Meeting at St. Joseph's National Catholic Church, 1300 Stratford Road, Stratford. Call 203-378-6977 for more information.

National News

 

The proposed House of Representatives 2012 Budget that passed last Friday slashes numerous services for people with disabilities. While the Senate is not likely to support the House budget, the stage is set for a monumental battle over programs to be cut and taxes to be raised.

 

What is at stake?

Medicaid - The plan shifts the cost of Medicaid to low-income consumers, including people with disabilities, and cuts the program by a third over the next 10 years.  The plan converts Medicaid to a block grant which will cap funding regardless of health care cost inflation over time. 

 

Medicare - The plan eliminates the current Medicare structure and transforms the program into a voucher system.  It shifts the cost of services to the beneficiaries, almost doubling amount that individuals pay out of pocket for their ongoing health care.

 

Health Reform – The plan repeals and defunds the Affordable Care Act (ACA) including programs that are vital for people with disabilities.  For example, the CLASS Program and and the Community First Choice Option are two ACA provisions targeted at expanding home and community based options for people with disabilities.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) last week announced new initiatives to give states more flexibility to adopt innovative new practices and provide better, more coordinated care for people with Medicaid and Medicare while helping reduce costs for states and families. Several of the announcements also help implement provisions of the Affordable Care Act:

Coordinated Care for People with Medicare and Medicaid: Under a new initiative funded by the Affordable Care Act, 15 states, including Connecticut, will receive up to $1 million each to develop new ways to meet the often complex and costly medical needs of the approximately nine million Americans who are eligible for both the Medicare and Medicaid programs, known as “dual eligibles.”  The goal of the program is to eliminate duplication of services for these patients, expand access to needed care and improve the lives of individuals who are eligible for both programs, while lowering costs.  The new Federal Coordinated Health Care Office at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), was created by the Affordable Care Act to improve care for dually eligible individuals and will work with the states to implement the top strategies to coordinate primary, acute, behavioral and long-term supports and services, improving quality and lowering costs. 

Helping People with Disabilities Live in their Communities: CMS proposed new rules giving states new flexibility for their programs to help people with disabilities choose to live in their communities rather than in institutions.  The proposed rules reduce administrative barriers for states seeking to help multiple populations, which may include seniors and/or people with different types of disabilities.  They will also allow individuals to participate in the design of their own array of services and supports, including such things as personal care and respite services for caregivers.

The proposed rule can be found at www.ofr.gov/inspection.aspx

More on New ADA Regulations

The New England ADA Center has developed a number of informative Fact Sheets relative to the new ADA regulations that went into effect on March 15. The Fact Sheets are:

Fact Sheet # 1: Overview of Revised Title II and III Regulations

Fact Sheet # 2: Effective Communication

Fact Sheet # 3: Examinations and Courses

Fact Sheet # 4: Places of Lodging

Fact Sheet # 5: Service Animals

Fact Sheet # 6: Ticketing

Fact Sheet # 7: Wheelchairs and Other Power-Driven-Mobility Devises

Fact Sheet # 8: Detention and Correctional Facilities

Fact Sheet # 9: Overview of the 2010ADA Standards for Accessible Design

To view the fact sheets go to: http://adaptiveenvironmen...ations_fact_sheet_series

More ADA Title II and Title III regulations changes go into effect next year on March 15, 2012.

To view the revised ADA architectural standards, go to www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm .

“Enhancing the effectiveness of disability activism by organizing and empowering individuals, families, groups, and organizations!”

Empowerment! Opportunity! Justice!

May-June, 2011

To include information in next month’s Bulletin please contact us:

Stan Kosloski, 860-614-8351 or StanKosloski@ct-dac.org

Jayne Kleinman, 203-631-4800 or JayneKleinman@ct-dac.org

Website: http://www.ct-dac.org/contactus.htm

In This Issue	Page
News from the State legislature: new Bureau of Rehabilitative Services bill passes State Senate!	1
People First Conference on June 4, IU and DNEC to hold Annual Meetings, & Summer Special Olympics June 10-12	6
Transportation news & Family Empowerment Task Force Forum on June 18	7
June is Helen Keller Deaf-Blind Awareness Month & Arc of CT develops reform platform	8
National news: Action Alert from the American Association of Persons with Disabilities on proposed Medicaid cuts & news from DOJ on the ADA	9

SB 1240 Creates New Bureau of Rehabilitative Services!

On Tuesday, May 24 the State Senate passed Bill No. 1240 which, among other things, creates a Bureau of Rehabilitative Services, a new independent agency placed within the Department of Social Services for administrative purposes only. The Governor will appoint someone to head the agency, and that person will have the same status as any state agency head. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives and if it passes there must be signed into law by the Governor.

Below is a summary of the bill produced by the Office of Legislative Research. The bill itself is quite lengthy. To see the actual bill language open http://www.cga.ct.gov, type in 1240 next to “Number” at top of screen, then click “GO”.

Office of Legislative Research Bill Analysis

SB 1240: AN ACT CONCERNING THE BUREAU OF REHABILITATIVE SERVICES AND IMPLEMENTATION OF PROVISIONS OF THE BUDGET CONCERNING HUMAN SERVICES AND PUBLIC HEALTH.

SUMMARY: This bill transfers all of the powers, functions, and duties of the (1) Board of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB) and (2) Commission on the Deaf and Hearing Impaired (CDHI) to a new Bureau of Rehabilitative Services (BRS), which is within the Department of Social Services (DSS) for administrative purposes only.

The bill transfers all of the rehabilitation service functions from DSS' current Bureau of Rehabilitation Services to the new BRS. This includes rehabilitation services and disability determinations for people with disabilities who apply for federal Social Security disability benefits.

The bill moves the Department of Motor Vehicles' (DMV) driver training program for individuals with disabilities into BRS. And it transfers the employee rehabilitation program of the Worker's Compensation Commission to BRS.

The bill requires the BRS director to report to the Human Services and Appropriations committees on (1) the merger's status and (2) the vocational rehabilitation services program.

The bill also makes numerous changes to the statutes governing the programs and services of the Department of Social Services (DSS).

The bill makes numerous technical and conforming changes.

§§ 1, 31 — CREATION OF BUREAU

The bill creates a BRS within DSS for administrative purposes only. The bureau is responsible for providing (1) services to blind and visually impaired and deaf and hearing impaired individuals and (2) rehabilitation services.

The bureau is headed by a director, whom the governor appoints in accordance with the law governing appointments of agency heads. The director has the powers and duties of an agency head. The bill requires the director to appoint people he or she deems necessary to administer the bill's provisions. It directs the administrative services commissioner to fix these individuals' compensation.

The bill permits the director to create administration sections within the bureau, including a disability determinations section for which 100% federal funds can be accepted to operate the section in conformance with state and federal regulation. (Currently, DSS' Bureau of Rehabilitation Services has a Disability Determination section that handles Social Security disability determinations for the federal government. )

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2011

§§ 2-4 — TRANSFER OF CDHI, BESB, AND BUREAU OF REHABILITATION SERVICES FUNCTIONS TO NEW BUREAU

The bill transfers all functions, powers, and duties of CDHI and BESB to the new BRS, and makes BRS a successor administrative agency to the commissions with respect to these functions, powers, and duties. Currently, CDHI and BESB are within DSS for administrative purposes only. BESB is currently the state's lead agency for services for blind residents and offers educational services to children and adults, rehabilitation services, and a program for blind entrepreneurs, among other things. CDHI's main function is to provide interpreters to deaf and hearing impaired citizens in a variety of settings. It also equips these individuals with telecommunication devices.

The bill also transfers all functions, powers, and duties of DSS's Bureau of Rehabilitation Services to the new BRS.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2011

§ 7 — BESB-SPECIFIC CHANGES

The bill changes the role of the BESB oversight board from the central policy making authority for services provided to the state's blind and visually impaired to an advisor to BRS in fulfilling its responsibilities in providing services to blind and visually impaired residents. The bill specifies that BESB board chairman can call a meeting at the request of two or more members instead of exactly two members.

The bill also eliminates the board's function of monitoring the activities of the agency in carrying out its mission to provide educational and rehabilitative services to all blind and visually impaired state residents. And it eliminates a requirement that the board report annually to the governor, OPM, and the legislature on BESB's compliance with benchmarks.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2011

§ 33, 35 — CDHI — ROLE OF COMMISSION

As it does with the BESB board, the bill continues CDHI in an advisory role to BRS. But it eliminates its role as a statewide coordinating agency and implementer of state policies affecting the deaf and hearing impaired. (It is unclear to what extent, if any, the commission and not the agency has these roles currently. )

The bill also eliminates the position of the CDHI executive director.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2011

§ 38 — DOMESTIC TELEPHONE COMPANY ASSESSMENT

Under current law each domestic telephone company serving at least 100,000 customers had to pay $ 20,000 into a Special Telecommunications Equipment Fund by July 1, 1992. These funds helped CDHI provide telecommunications equipment for its clients. The bill eliminates this deadline, thus the telephone companies are once again subject to the assessment. The bill does not specify how frequently the assessment is paid.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2011

§ 45 — HANDICAPPED PLACARD CERTIFICATION

By law, people with disabilities seeking or renewing a handicapped placard must present certain certifications to the DMV commissioner verifying they are eligible for one. Under current law, persons who are blind and eligible for these placards require certification of legal blindness from an ophthalmologist, optometrist, or the Board of Education and Services for the Blind. The bill replaces the Board of Education and Services for the Blind with the Bureau of Rehabilitative Services. It also makes technical changes.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2011

§ 46 — HANDICAPPED DRIVER TRAINING PROGRAM

The bill moves, from DMV to BRS, a unit that evaluates and trains handicapped people in motor vehicle operation. It changes the name of the program from the handicapped driver training program to the driver training program for persons with disabilities, and makes conforming changes. Under current law, a handicapped driving consultant responsible for overseeing the program is under the DMV commissioner's direction. The bill renames this person the driver consultant for persons with disabilities, and places him under the BRS director.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2011

§ 47 — DUTIES OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION CHAIRMEN MOVED UNDER BRS DIRECTOR

The bill makes a number of conforming and technical changes necessary to transfer the employee rehabilitation program of the Workers Compensation Commission (WCC) to the new BRS. The changes mean WCC will no longer provide employee rehabilitation programs; BRS will take over that function.

Under current law, the WCC chairman must establish rehabilitation programs for workers whose injuries are compensable under state workers compensation law. In order to carry out this program the chairman is authorized to:

1. establish fees,

2. enter into agreements with state and federal agencies, and

3. develop matching programs or activities to secure federal grants and pledge or use funds from the Workers' Compensation Administration Fund.

The bill replaces the WCC chairman with the BRS director and transfer this authority to the director.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2011

This Year’s Legislative Session Ends June 8, 2011

Background Information on State Legislature

To review the text of any bill before the General Assembly you must get the bill #. Then: 1) open http://www.cga.ct.gov 2) type in the bill number next to “Number” at top of screen, then click “GO”.

The address for all legislators at the State Capitol is:

(Legislator's Name)

Legislative Office Building

Hartford, CT 06106-1591

Telephone Numbers for all legislators are:

Senate Democrats

(860) 240-8600, 1-800-842-1420

Senate Republicans

(860) 240-8800, 1-800-842-1421

House Democrats

Leadership: (860) 240-8500, 1-800-842-1902

Rank and File: (860) 240-8585, 1-800-842-8267

House Republicans

Leadership: (860) 240-8700, 1-800-842-1423

Rank and File: (860) 240-8787, 1-800-842-8270.

IU to Hold Annual Meeting

On Thursday, June 2, from 6:00 – 8:30 pm, Independence Unlimited will hold its Annual Meeting at the NEAT Center at Oak Hill (33 Coventry Street – Hartford). Highlights will include a presentation on visit-ability by Sue Salters, presentation of awards to visit-ability design contest winners, and recognition of IU’s Helping Hand Award Recipients. Interested individuals may RSVP by phone at 860-523-5021 or by Email at: Contactus@independenceunlimited.org. Sign language interpreters will be provided. If you need any other accommodations in order to attend and fully participate in this event, contact Maurita at IU.

People First Annual Conference on June 4 in Meriden

On Saturday, June 4, from 8:30 am – 4:00 pm People First CT will hold its Annual Conference at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel in Meriden. Workshops will include such topics as “Interacting with the Police”, “Bullying and How Not To Be a Victim”, “Human Rights”, “Legislative Advocacy”, “Community Connections”, “Employment”, and more. The cost to attend is $25. You may register by contacting People First of CT - C/O Arc of Connecticut - 43 Woodland St - Suite 260 - Hartford, CT 06105, phone: 860-246-6400.

People First of Connecticut is a statewide self-advocacy organization that believes that ALL people, with and without disabilities, should be treated equally and respected for their abilities. The organization works together with other similar organizations to make positive changes for people with disabilities. People First members encourage and advocate for choice, independence, freedom, respect, and dignity for everyone.

DNEC to Hold Annual Meeting

On Tuesday, June 7, from 3:30-7:00 pm, the Disability Network of Eastern CT will hold its Annual Meeting at the DNEC offices (238 West Town St, Norwich). The event is a potluck affair and all DNEC Members and Board Members are invited. To become a member, or to RSVP, contact Heather Dunn by May 31 at 860-823-1898 x111 or by e-mail at hdunn@dnec.org.

Special Olympics Coming in Two Weeks

From Friday, June 10 through Sunday, June 12
the Summer Special Olympics Summer Games will be held in New Haven at three sites: Southern Connecticut State University, Yale Athletic Facilities, and Hamden Hall Athletic Facilities. For more information go to: http://soct.org/newsletters/#431

Upcoming Transportation-related Events

The Kennedy Center in Trumbull will be making three presentations on public transportation during the month of June:

• On Thursday, June 16 (1:00 – 3:00 pm) “Understanding Public Transportation in the Waterbury Area” will be held at the Waterbury One Stop Employment Center (Room 118), 249 Thomaston Avenue in Waterbury. The workshop is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be provided. Registration is required, however, so if you are interested in attending contact Jen Erenberg at the Kennedy Center by Email: jerenberg@kennedyctr.org or phone: 203-365-8522 x273.

• On Tuesday, June 21 (10:00 am–12:00 pm) a workshop on public transportation in the Shoreline Area will be held at the Clinton Town Hall, the Green Room, 54 East Main Street in Clinton. Refreshments will be provided and a Transit bus will be on the premises and available for a live demonstration. This workshop is also free and open to the public but advance registration is required (Jen Erenberg at the Kennedy Center by Email: jerenberg@kennedyctr.org or phone: 203-365-8522 x273).

• On Wednesday June 29, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, the Kennedy Center will be doing a presentation on public transportation in the Danbury area in the Danbury Senior Center’s Elmwood Hall. The workshop will include accessibility issues, how to obtain reduced rates, trip planning, other transit services, and a demonstration of HART bus features. The workshop is free and promises to be a good opportunity for both the people who receive services and staff of provider agencies (especially residential and community support staff) to become transportation experts. As in the other workshops, contact Jen Erenberg at the Kennedy Center to register: jerenberg@kennedyctr.org or phone: (203) 365-8522 x 273.

On Wednesday, June 22, the Connecticut Association for Community Transportation (CACT) will hold its Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon at the Indian Hill Country Club in Newington. An Excellence in Transportation Award and a Friend of Public Transportation Award will be given to deserving individuals. Plan now to attend, network, enjoy a wonderful luncheon, and applaud the work of those who’ve made a difference. For more information or to register contact Mary Tomolonius, CACT Executive Director at her Office: 860-693-0368, by Cell: 860-989-6164, or Email: mary.cact@yahoo.com. The CACT website is http://www.cact.info

Family Empowerment Task Force to Hold Forum

On Saturday, June 18 beginning at 9:00 am, the DDS Family Empowerment Task Force will host a special event in the Old Judiciary Room at the State Capitol. A panel of leaders in DDS services will speak about current challenges in the DDS system. Family members will then form working groups to draft specific tasks for the Task Force to address over the coming months. Terry Macy, the newly selected DDS Commissioner, has accepted an invitation to participate on the panel. The Arc of Connecticut, the Connecticut Community Providers Association and the Connecticut Association of Nonprofits have all confirmed their participation.

If you plan to attend, or have questions, e-mail Task Force Coordinator Walter Glomb at: family-empowerment@comcast.net.

June is Helen Keller Deaf-Blind Awareness Month

 

The Board of Education and Services of the Blind (BESB) is co-sponsoring Helen Keller Deaf-Blind Awareness month in June with the Helen Keller National Center and other state organizations including the SILC and the Communication Advocacy Network (CAN).  According to Helen Keller National Center, deaf-blindness is one of the most serious of disabilities. This dual sensory disability affects an estimated one million Americans.   Displays of information and pictures will be hung on the walls of the Legislative Office Building during the month of June to raise public awareness including a new Service Provider Program administered by the Communication Advocacy Network and funded by BESB.   Other scheduled activities include a Tech Fair to be held at BESB on June 1^st, quarterly support groups, and plans to have a legislative advocacy training at the Capitol. 

For more information, contact Marsha Brown at BESB at 860-602-4046. 

Arc of CT Develops Platform for Reform

On May 23 the Arc of Connecticut and its 23 chapters across the state released their vision for supports and services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.

Entitled a Platform for Reform: A Better Plan for Supporting Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Connecticut, the platform has been submitted to Governor Dannel Malloy for consideration. Details of the plan can be found at www.arcct.org

Operation Fuel Assistance Now Available

The Operation Fuel utility assistance program will be providing assistance from May 2 through June 30th for households with income up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The benefit is $200, and is only available if the household did not receive assistance from the fuel bank in the past 12 months.

Operation Fuel is an emergency energy assistance program. An Operation Fuel energy grant is not an entitlement to all Connecticut residents who fall within the income guidelines. Operation Fuel energy grants are for households which fall within the income guidelines, and are faced with a financial crisis.

Financial crisis is defined as the inability of a family to pay for an outstanding gas or electric bill. For example, a household is faced with the decision to choose between paying for their energy needs or buying food, paying the rent or mortgage, or paying medical bills as a result of unemployment, limited or fixed income, illness, death, or other emergencies.

For a list of contact information, visit http://www.operationfuel.org/getting-help or call INFO line 2-1-1.

 

National News

Action Alert from the American Association of Persons with Disabilities (AAPD): Oppose Medicaid Block Grants: Contact Senators This Week and Urge Them to Fight Medicaid Cuts

“Medicaid pays for vital health care as well as services and supports for people with disabilities. Write your senators and let them know you want them to oppose Medicaid block grants and Medicaid cuts that would restrict access to long-term services and supports. 

The budget proposal from the U.S. House of Representatives would seriously undermine the Medicaid program which provides critical health coverage to 8 million Americans with disabilities including seniors who rely upon Medicaid for long term services and support, prescription drug coverage, and durable medical equipment. Congressman Ryan’s proposal would reduce Medicaid funding for the next ten years by a total of $772 billion from the current spending level and cap the program while giving tax breaks to the rich. 

States are already facing financial shortfalls which are resulting in cuts to services and eligibility.  If enacted, this situation would only become worse.  States would eliminate services, cap enrollment, and impose high premiums and co-payments on low income beneficiaries, including those on SSI who live well below the federal poverty line.

Medicaid provides vital services for millions of older Americans and Americans with disabilities:

- Medicaid pays for wheelchairs and prosthetic devices for people with disabilities such as spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

-Medicaid pays for prescription drugs for persons with mental illnesses and epilepsy and other medical conditions.

- Medicaid pays for programs to enable people with intellectual disabilities to live and work in the community rather than be forced into institutions.

- Medicaid’s Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis & Treatment program helps identify disabilities early for children with disabilities and gets them the care they need.

- Medicaid pays for community based long term services and supports which allow seniors and people with disabilities to live independently in the community.

Block granting is described as giving states “flexibility”, but what it really means is that states will have no accountability for their Medicaid programs.  Medicaid pays for such vital services and provides the supports that allow Americans with disabilities to live in the community.  Too many states have already demonstrated that they will bow to local pressure from institutional facilities, and ignore the Supreme Court affirmed civil rights of Americans to choose to receive long term services in their homes and community.  Additional flexibility is NOT the answer.” AAPD

Starting in the second decade, the House plan also eliminates the current Medicare structure and transforms the program into a voucher system.  It shifts the cost of services to the beneficiaries, almost doubling amount that individuals pay out of pocket for their ongoing health care. The proposed plan also repeals and defunds the Affordable Care Act (ACA) including programs that are vital for people with disabilities.  For example, the CLASS Program and the Community First Choice Option are two ACA provisions targeted at expanding home and community based options for people with disabilities.

ADA News from DOJ

Two accessibility cases settled

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) entered into a settlement agreement with Beginning Montessori Academy in Baldwin Park, California. The state-funded private preschool informed a parent by letter that it would not allow her 5-year old child who has autism to return the following year nor would it accept any student with autism or any specialized condition or need in the future. The preschool agreed that it would not discriminate against individuals with disabilities and that it would change its policies, practices and procedures when necessary to accommodate students with disabilities.

DOJ also entered into a settlement agreement with Megabus USA LLC and Megabus Northeast LLC located in Chicago and Elizabeth, New Jersey in which the company agreed to provide accessible transportation services.   During a trip between New York City and Baltimore in August 2010, Megabus failed to provide an accessible bus for a passenger who used a wheelchair. Megabus agreed to stop using its inaccessible vehicles and to make its entire fleet of vehicles accessible within 120 days. Megabus also will make its online reservation system available to people with disabilities equivalent to the system available to people without disabilities.

Housing Accessibility Lawsuit Filed

DOJ filed a lawsuit under the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act against owners, developers, and design professionals involved in the building of nine multi-family housing complexes in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Tennessee. The projects include over 2,000 apartments with over 800 accessible, ground-level units. The lawsuit alleges that the properties are not accessible to people with disabilities because they do not have accessible pedestrian routes or parking; have doors that are too narrow for people who use wheelchairs and inaccessible environmental controls, such as light switches; and have kitchens and bathrooms that are not accessible.

The DOJ ADA website is www.ada.gov.