HR 1255
PROTECTING RESIDENTIAL CENTER RESIDENTS
PROTECTING RESIDENTIAL CENTER RESIDENTS
Yesterday, ARC of Wa. distributed a call-to-action regarding HR1255, a bill which I have been following and have understood to be protective of people with dd who need and reside in residential centers. In Washington State we call them RHCs (residential habilitation centers.) Since the thrust of the message was exactly opposite of my understanding, I contacted Tamie Hopp of VOR, a national advocacy group that advocates for people with dd, no matter where they live. The ARC of Wa call-to-action turned out to contain considerable error. For clarification, I have invited Tamie to write as a guest author; but first, here is the ARC's error-filled message:
"H.R. 1255 is a Congressional House bill that would restrict the rights of individuals with disabilities to have the choice of where they want to live respected, to live free from abuse and neglect, and to live and receive services and supports in the most integrated setting possible. Individuals with all types of disabilities and health conditions are successfully living in their local community on their own or with family or friends."
I look forward to seeing your response. Just in case Tamie doesn't think to mention it, one response that you could have that would be very helpful and positive would be to ask your federal congressional representatives to sign on as sponsors of the bill.
Saskia
Thank you for this post and for your effort to set the record straight about H.R. 1255.
ReplyDeleteIt is simply wrong to suggest that H.R. 1255 restricts choice. Instead, if passed, H.R. 1255 would restore the rights of individuals and their legal guardians to choose their attorneys and not be forced into lawsuits that threaten the very existence of their homes.
Specifically H.R. 1255 would providing residents of Medicaid licensed ICFs/MR, and where judicially appointed, their legal guardians, with the right to be notified of lawsuits involving their homes before they are filed, and provide a time limited opportunity to opt out of the lawsuit (or do nothing and join in).
Following a 90 day period the lawsuit could go forward on behalf of a consenting class.
For the past 15 years, the lawsuits that would be impacted by H.R. 1255 have been filed ONLY to downsize and close facilities; conditions of care have NOT been at issue in these lawsuits.
Visit http://www.vor.net if you have any additional quesetions.
Please contact your Representatives in Congress to cosponsor this bill. Thank you!
Thank you so much for the clarification. I was very puzzled by the Call to Action since it seemed to contrary to what the bill said. I thought I must have read something wrong or didn't understand it but now I see that the Arc advocate is misreading it.
ReplyDelete