Our Positions

COMMUNITY LIVING AND OLMSTEAD
ISSUE: In early February, as one of his first official acts, President Bush issued his "New Freedom Initiative", committing his administration to assuring the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of American life. The Summary of Action in Part A, Title VI of the Initiative states: "President Bush has Committed to Sign an Order Supporting Swift Implementation of the Olmstead Decision. The order will support the most integrated community-based settings for individuals with disabilities, in accordance with the Olmstead decision."

RECOMMENDATION: President Bush Sign an Executive Order Supporting Swift Implementation of the Olmstead Decision. ISSUE: Advocates, policymakers and legislators should be focusing all energies on the development of expanded community supports and services that enable all people, regardless of the severity of their disabilities, to be valued members of their home communities. States' efforts to provide high quality community services have been undermined by advocacy groups supporting large costly public-and privately-operated ICFs/MRs/ institutions. These advocacy groups have misstated the U.S. Supreme Court decision of Olmstead v. L.C., by alleging that it is a victory for choice and institutionalization. These advocacy organizations are receiving significant technical support from state employee unions and the nursing home lobby. NConSD is most concerned by the success of these efforts in delaying or impeding the development of a strong community based system. RECOMMENDATION: Inform all Governors and State Medicaid Directors of the Administration's support for increasing the integration of persons with disabilities into their communities and the world of work. -- New Freedom Initiative, Olmstead Decision Compliance, System Change Grants.

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