State’s Rights or National Leadership concerning individual rights?

Where are we headed with public policy concerning institutions for individuals with developmental disabilities in Washington State and throughout our nation? In a recent post to this blog I asked the question about when are we going to close our state institutions, but the whole country needs to consider public policy around the freedoms of individuals with significant disabilities.
I recently read a newsletter and the opening article addressed this issue here is an excerpt from APSE Connections newsletter lead article “Pushing for Policy to Promote Self-Determination: part II by. Serena Lowe, M.P.H.

“The United States has come a long way since the days when institutionalization was the dominant way of addressing the needs of adults with significant disabilities. However, additional public policy reform is required before these individuals have the same opportunities to determine their destinies with respect to working, generating an income, building savings, and pursuing goals that the general population enjoys. The key problem lies not in a lack of money — but in the significant inequities that exist in the distribution of financial support and services for this population. As a result, thousands of individuals with disabilities continue to live in institutions, nursing homes, and other residential facilities despite their ability and desire to live in partially- or fully-independent situations. Family support and integrated employment programs receive limited funding, and, individuals are often penalized for working or saving by having benefits reduced or eliminated when they earn an income.

This problem will only get worse if something isn’t done. Within the next decade, another 500,000 persons with disabilities are expected to transition from youth into adulthood. Clearly, steps must be taken to ensure that these individuals receive the services and supports necessary to attain fulfilling, productive lives.” The article goes on to discuss the major areas that policy should address including employment. We are fortunate that in this state the Governor and policy makers have prioritized community services for young people with disabilities. But I believe it’s time to make this a national priority as we look at fiscal policy around this issue. As long as the primary source of funding comes from the Federal government and continues to encourage institutions, states are not going to take the leap even if they wanted to. If you think of all the advances we as a society have made in the last 50 years it would make sense to take this one step. Aren’t institutions so 20th century – isn’t it time to abandon these and focus on people living and working in the community?

What ARRA you Buying? The boondoggle ends!

I have given you an account of the state’s use of ARRA funds in the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation that chose to use the 8.8 million dollars funding a program called Project H.I.R.E (Hiring Individuals with disabilities who are Ready for Employment). I had pointed out how the project fell well short of the goals set and the individual placement costs were staggering – over 10 times the cost of a “regular” placement using existing Community Rehabilitation Providers.


They spent roughly half of the 8.8 million to place less than 100 people into jobs. The leadership of DVR has decided to end Project HIRE and to divert the money to other areas. The State Rehabilitation Council has suggested four areas to bolster service to improve services but to date we haven’t been told were the money will be spent.

I must applaud the executive leadership of DVR for recognizing the shortcomings of the program and high cost associated with it. According to one of the leadership members of VR they apparently learned important lessons and built new partnerships. Let’s hope the next foray into a project won’t cost 4 million tax dollars before the lesson is learned.

I still ask where would you place your ARRA money if given the choice?

Stay tuned.