Here's the rub...the MRDD community feels that this legislation, as it now includes S. 1394, is biased against people with mental retardation. I have some conflicts here, as I have worked with individuals who NEED care in another environment. For whatever reasons, they cannnot stay at home. Whether it be severe behavior problems, severe mental illness or other things. I certainly believe that the community is the best place for folks. BUT historically, the social services have a BAD record providing the needed care for the few that need it constantly. Once they're out of the "institution" they are forgotten and some end up on the streets or worse. Group homes are geat, but few good ones exist, and the wait list is huge.
I'm talking her only about those folks who are severely mentally retarded or mentally ill. When the advocates for MRDD oppose this I have to pause and take notice. So, please read further if you want to be better informed.
On most things ADAPT does I wholeheartedly agree, but on this one I may need to do some research.
If you want more info go here:
http://www.vor.net/July%207,%202004.htm
RIver
Heyyy Kids...this is great info, and we all should make an effort at shoving this legislation....it's soooooo damn important to us!!� I never want to be locked away in HELL...too many of you have had that experience.� Dave is STILL in it...
I'm sure the congress already has it's mind made up, but we might surprise them with NUMBERS....
peace...tony
In a message dated 9/10/2004 5:46:14 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
To:���������� PVA Executive Committee
������������ PVA Board of Directors
������������ PVA Chapter Presidents
������������ PVA Chapter Executive Directors
������������ PVA Chapter Government Relations Directors
������������ PVA Advocacy Directors
������������ PVA Legislative Directors
From:�������� Lee Page, Associated Advocacy Director
Subj:�������� "Money Follows the Person Act (MFP) and the Family
Opportunity Act (FOA)"
Date:�������� September 10, 2004
On September 14th, PVA and other disability organizations are participating
in a national "call-in" day to urge Congress to pass the "Money Follows the
Person Act" and the "Family Opportunity Act".
This legislation would allow families with children who have severe
disabilities to buy into Medicaid program so they can have access to health
care services and supports, something that they can not get from private
insurance. Money follows the person is a demonstration project that
requires the Federal government to reimburse the state 100 percent of the
first year costs of home and community based services for individuals on
Medicaid who move to the community from a nursing home or institution. In
year two the state match returns to the original rate.
Please call your Representatives and ask them to pass H.R. 1811, their
version of the FOA, which includes the Money Follows the Person Act.� House
Switchboard is: 202-225-3121
Please Call your Senator and ask them to pass S.1394, their version of the
Money Follows the Person Act. (Senate has already passed their version of
FOA).� Senate switchboard is:� 202-224-3121
Please see the attached memo, which provides talking points and more
information on participation of this national call-in day. If you have any
questions, feel free to call me at 202-416-7694.
Thanks - Lee.
