On Saturday, Senate Bill 246, which ensures that the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS) provides accurate and up-to-date information on family needs regarding the residential waiting list and other services, was unanimously approved by the House.
Rep. Ferraro, a co-sponsor of the legislation, said, “This is a great bill that helps all of our DDS families, who will finally get a real waiting list for placements. These families have been asking for transparency and accountability for a long time.”
“Rep. Staneski and I have been working with CT-DDS Families First to get this legislation passed.” Rep. Ferraro added. “I want to thank DDS Families First and the ARC for their advocacy on behalf of the developmentally disabled. Our state needs to start putting its most vulnerable citizens first, and this legislation is a step in that direction.”
The bill requires DDS to provide accurate and up-to-date information on family needs regarding the Residential Waiting List and other services by requiring a yearly census conducted when families meet with DDS for their annual review. By July 2018, DDS must develop a five and ten-year plan for each individual with an intellectual disability who is eligible for DDS services and who has an individual plan from DDS.
The bill now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.