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Bill eliminating age 10 cap on benefits goes to Gov. Perry
AUSTIN (May 20, 2013) -- The Texas House of Representatives approved and sent Gov. Rick Perry a bill that would eliminate age caps for receiving autism insurance benefits. Perry signed the 2007 bill that made Texas just the third state nationally to enact autism insurance reform, then a second bill in 2009 that raised the age cap from 5 to 9.
The current law requires state-regulated health plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism, including behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), as well as speech, occupational and physical therapy.
Sponsored by Senators Kirk Watson of Austin, Wendy Davis of Forth Worth and Eddie Lucio, Jr. of Brownsville, SB.1484 would take effect in Septemberand limit annual ABA benefits to $36,000 for children aged 10 and above. Children must be diagnosed with autism by the age of 10 to gain the coverage.
The House champions for the bill included Rep. Larry Gonzales of Round Rock, Rep. Ron Simmons of Carrollton, and Rep. Senfronia Thompson of Houston.
Texas is one of four states with existing autism insurance reform laws that has considered bills to expand coverage this year. A fifth state, New Mexico, has already enacted a new law expanding its coverage to public employees. Last year, Louisana, Vermont, Virginia and Rhode Island all took action to expand coverage under their existing laws.
The Minnesota Legislature has sent Gov. Mark Dayton a bill that would make Minnesota the 33rd state to enact autism insurance reform. Dayton is expected to sign the bill shortly.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has released a Report and Orderrequiring wireless carriers and providers of interconnected text messaging to send a "bounce back" message to consumers who try to text 911 where text-to-911 is not available. The new requirement will help consumers who text 911 whether or not the 911 authorities received the text message. The bounce-back messaging capability will be implemented by June 13, 2013.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175,krichards@ucp.org
UCP ELECTS SEVEN TO BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Individuals bring diversity of experience and knowledge to continuing efforts to ensure a life without limits for people with disabilities
Washington, D.C. (May 20, 2013)– United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) elected seven members to its Board of Trustees during its 2013 International Conference in San Diego, CA last month.
“We are extremely grateful to all members of our Board of Trustees for their passion for UCP's mission and their commitment to the people we serve,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP, in announcing the selection of Trustees.
The newly elected members of UCP's Board of Trustees are listed below. To view the complete list, please visitucp.org/about/board.
Actress, Producer and DirectorCheryl Hinesis a two‐time Emmy nominee for her role as Cheryl David on HBO's Golden Globe Award‐winning seriesCurb Your Enthusiasm, the brainchild ofSeinfeldco‐creator Larry David. Hines can currently be seen starring in the hit ABC comedy seriesSuburgatoryopposite Jeremy Sisto and Jane Levy.
Last year, Hines filmed a co‐starring role in the feature filmPASADENA, produced by Midway Films. Hines co‐stars opposite Peter Bogdanovich and Alicia Witt. Hines's feature film directorial debut,Serious Moonlightwas released through Magnolia Films two years ago. The film premiered with critical acclaim at the Tribeca Film Festival. The late Adrienne Shelly, who directed Hines in the critically acclaimedWaitress, wrote the screenplay.
Hines's additional television projects included a co‐starring role in the live action/CG adaptation of the Nickelodeon hit animated seriesThe Fairly Odd Parentsand television movieA Fairly Odd Movie: Grow Up, Timmy Turner!opposite Jason Alexander. She had major story arc on the ABC drama seriesBrothers and Sistersand a starring role opposite Megan Mullally in the ABC Television Network seriesIn the Motherhood, a single camera comedy series chronicling the hilarious ups and downs of motherhood.
Hines has also produced and directed several television projects including Executive Producer and creator of the NBC television seriesSchool Pride, a proactive, alternative series that told the stories of communities coming together to renovate their aging and broken public schools. She also produced the award‐winning comedy seriesCampus Ladiesfor the Oxygen Channel and the Starz Networks original comedy seriesHollywood Residential.
Hines is one of Hollywood's busiest film actresses with starring roles in a number of critically acclaimed feature films and box office hits includingThe Ugly Truth,RV,Waitress,The GrandandBart Got A Room.
Hines previously served on the Board of Trustees of UCP from 2006 – 2012, and has been tireless in her support for the individuals whom UCP's affiliates serve.
Pamela Talkinwas sworn in on July 16, 2001 as the tenth Marshal of the Supreme Court of the United States and is the first woman to hold the position.
Talkin came to the Court after six years as the first Deputy Executive Director of the Office of Compliance, the independent regulatory agency created by the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995, which applied eleven of the nation's labor and employment laws to Congress. There, she promulgated procedures and regulations for the application of the laws, managed all operations of the Office, and acted as liaison between the Office and Congressional members, committees, and legislative branch agencies including the Architect of the Capitol, the Capitol Police, and the Congressional Budget Office. Talkin also served as President of the international Association of Labor Relations Agencies.
From 1989 to 1995, Talkin was a Presidentially‐appointed, Senate‐confirmed member of the Federal Labor Relations Authority. Previously, Talkin was the Chief of Staff at the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and Assistant Regional Director of the National Labor Relations Board's San Francisco Region (Northern California and Hawaii). Talkin was also the National President of the NLRB Union, which represented over 2,000 professional and clerical employees.
Talkin began her career as a Spanish teacher and guidance counselor in New York City high schools. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in Spanish from the City University of New York at Brooklyn College. She has done postgraduate work at the City University of New York and at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government. She has been re-elected to a new three-year term.
Gloria Johnson‐Cusackis the Executive Director of Leadership 18, an alliance of Chief Executive Officers responsible for leading some of the country's largest and most well respected charities, non‐profits, and faith‐based organizations.
Johnson‐Cusack brings more than 20 years of management, political and strategic communications expertise informed by leadership positions in the private sector, U.S. Congress, national presidential campaigns, municipal and federal government, and the White House.
Johnson‐Cusack previously served as Senior Vice President at GMMB, a D.C.‐based strategic communications and advertising firm focused on cause marketing. In this role, she advanced issues on behalf of key nonprofit organizations and foundations.
In the public affairs arena, Johnson‐Cusack served as Director of the Office of Congressional Relations at the Peace Corps, Special Assistant to the President in the White House Office of National Service, and Director of Constituent Relations at the Corporation for National Service. She was Chief of Staff for the D.C. Office of the Inspector General and was policy advisor to Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and Senator Albert Gore, Jr.
Johnson‐Cusack holds a bachelor's degree from Columbia College, Columbia University and a master's degree in public administration from the Key Executive Management Program at American University. She is a founder of the Eli J. Segal Citizen Leadership program at Brandeis University, media trainer, church lay leader and breast cancer survivor and advocate. She is married with one adult daughter. She has been re-elected to a new three-year term.
Christobel Seleckyis a chief executive and entrepreneur with nearly 30 years experience in the health care industry. She currently provides strategic consulting and advice to management teams, companies, and investors currently in or seeking to enter the healthcare field focusing on strategy and business plan development, disease and care management program development and assessment, sales and market positioning, product planning, public policy analysis and strategy, and CEO/Senior Management advising. She also serves on the Board of Directors of National Healthcare Services, the venture capital arm of Memorial Healthcare Services, a preeminent, non-profit healthcare system located in Southern California.
Selecky most recently served as President, CEO, Chairman, and member of the Board of Directors of LifeMasters Supported SelfCare, which she led from 1996 until 2009. Under her leadership, LifeMasters raised more than $60 million in venture capital, grew to $130 million in annual revenues, employed more than 1,200 people in seven locations, provided care and disease management and health improvement services to more than 1 million program participants nationwide, won numerous industry awards, and counted some of the largest and most well‐respected health plans, employers, provider groups, labor unions, and government entities as its clients.
A veteran in the field of managed health care, her career began at FHP International Corporation, an entrepreneurial, privately held staff‐model HMO. While at FHP, Selecky saw the company through its conversion, public offering and rapid expansion. She has also served on the boards of both the California and New Mexico HMO Associations and The Medical Quality Commission.
Selecky received a master's degree in public communication from the S.I. Newhouse School of Communications at Syracuse University and a B.A. with high honors in Political Science and Philosophy from the University of Delaware. She has been re-elected to a new three-year term.
Eric Hespenheideis a senior partner at Deloitte & Touche LLP with over 25 years of distinguished leadership and client service experience. He serves as the Global Leader of the Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu (DTT) member firms' Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Services Group and managing partner of the global Internal Audit Practice.
Hespenheide is leading efforts in marketplace research, coordinating an integrated service offering and helping clients solve complex challenges with sustainability programs. His leadership has led to significant growth, resulting in the practice being widely recognized as a leading provider of internal audit services among Fortune 1000 companies. In addition, he currently serves as the Lead Partner or Advisory Partner on a number of global engagements in a variety of industries.
Hespenheide joined the Detroit practice of Deloitte & Touche LLP in 1977 and was named global managing partner of Internal Audit Services in 2001. Prior to 2001, he served as the Assurance and Advisory managing partner for the Great Lakes Region and as an audit partner for large global manufacturing companies.
He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants. Hespenheide has twice served on the Board of the United Cerebral Palsy, chairing the finance, audit and nominating committees. Hespenheide was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the Cerebral Palsy International Research Foundation. Hespenheide also serves on the Dean's Advisory Council at Louisiana State University, and has been actively involved in working with the Institute of Internal Auditors since 2001, serving as a board trustee for the IIA's Research Foundation. He is a frequent speaker on the topic of internal auditing at various forums around the world.
Ian C. Ridlonis General Counsel and Director of Legal Services at the Rhode Island Interlocal Risk Management Trust. Prior to joining The Trust, Ridlon was in private practice with a large national law firm where he engaged in insurance defense work, commercial and environmental litigation, and labor and employment work. He also successfully appealed the termination of benefits to children with developmental disabilities in a precedent setting matter before the Vermont Supreme Court.
Ridlon has been involved with United Cerebral Palsy on the state and national level for more than 15 years. On the state level, he has been the Board Chair for several terms and has also chaired two other non‐profit organizations created by the affiliate that provide independent living facilities for low income individuals with developmental disabilities.
On the national level, he has previously served on the Board of Trustees and is a recipient of the 2004 Chairperson's Award. He has also served on numerous committees and was previously the chair of the nominating committee and the by‐laws committee.
Ridlon is a graduate of Bowdoin College and Vermont Law School. He currently resides in Rhode Island with his wife, Patty, and his three boys, Conor, Brendan, and Aiden. He has been re-elected to a new three-year term.
Dr. James T. Bennettgraduated from Tulane School of Engineering and Tulane Medical School. A New Orleans native, he maintains his relationship with Tulane Engineering as a member of the Advisory Board for BME curriculum. His orthopaedic residency was at the University of North Carolina, AI DuPont Institute and a Fellowship at Scottish Rite Hospital in Atlanta.
Bennett's interest in computer assisted navigation stems from former Chairman of Tulane Orthopaedics Dr. Tom Whitecloud's work in developing Stealth navigation. Bennett's practice is primarily scoliosis although he maintains his interest in Pediatric Orthopedics in general. Bennett has been re-elected to a new three-year term.
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visitwww.ucp.org.
Read about Jeanette Tarqueno's love of adapted sports on the Office on Warrior Care Policy's blog. Tarqueno has a traumatic brain injury that she acquired while deployed in 2011. Within a few months, she was already competing in the 2012 Warrior Games.
A new report finds that cancer patients who participate in the creative arts,such as music therapy, dance, art therapy and writing, may be able to better cope with cancer-related anxiety, depression and pain. Researchers looked at the effects of the creative arts on common problems associated with cancer,including anxiety, depression, pain, fatigue and quality of life, and found that the arts helped with all issues except fatigue.
The U.S. Department of Justice has reached a settlement with the architects and civil engineers involved in the design and building of housing complexes inMississippi, Louisiana and Tennessee. The lawsuit alleges that the housing complexes violated the Fair Housing Act(FHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act by not having accessible features for people with disabilities. The designers and builders of the housing complexes have agreed to get training on the FHA.
Governor expected to sign bill making Minnesota 33rd state
ST. PAUL (May 18, 2013) -- The Minnesota Legislature has sent Governor Mark Dayton a bill that would make Minnesota the 33rd state, and the first in 2013, to enact autism insurance reform. The reforms are included in an omnibus health care bill approved late Friday night 73-61 by the House of Representatives and today 39-28 by the Senate.
Governor Dayton is expected to sign the bill which would take effect in January 2014.
Sponsored by Rep. Kim Norton (DFL-Rochester), the measure applies to state-regulated large group health plans which would be required to cover speech, occupational, physical and behavioral therapy, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA),up toage 18. An estimated 750,000 state residents would gain coverage.State employees will be added no later than2016.
The Dayton administration hopes to also extend coverage tothe small group and individual markets through the health exchanges it creates under the Affordable Care Act.
The bill also includes co-pay relief for families covered under the TEFRA disabilities program and a $12 million early intervention program for children up to age 18who are enrolled in the state's Medical Assistance (MA) program. The early intervention program will provide access to behavioral therapy, such as ABA, and will include training for providers in culturally appropriate techniques.
The provisions in Norton's bill were incorporated into HF.1233, the Omnibus Health and Human Services Finance Bill, which was passed by the legislature. The legislation became more urgent after a landmark 2001 court settlement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota expired in late 2011, stripping families of the state's only coverage starting last year.
"Autism Speaks commends the hard work of Representative Norton and the Dayton administration in producing a comprehensive response to the lack of autism coverage in Minnesota," said Lorri Unumb, Esq., Autism Speaks' vice president of state government affairs. "We look forward to continuing our work with our Minnesota champions to extend coverage to all families."
In addition to Minnesota, legislatures in North Carolina, Oregon and Nebraska areconsidering autism insurance reform bills. Similar measures advanced earlier this year in Hawaii, Utah, Georgia and Tennessee and are expected to be considered again in 2014.
States with existing autism insurance reform laws are expanding benefits. New Mexico has enacted a new law extending benefits under its existing law to public employees. Texas is nearing a final vote to eliminate the age cap on its law and California is moving a measure to extend its 2011 law, set to expire next year, another five years to 2019.
Health tip for parents of babies who may show early signs of communication delays. While newborns can't speak, they should be trying to communicate in different ways. Learn more about developmental delays and milestones that babies should achieve by their first birthday.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has charged the Founders Pavilion, Inc., of Corning, NY, with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). Founders allegedly violated the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act by asking for family medical history from job applicants and employees.The EEOC also alleged that Founders violated the ADA for refusing to provide an employee with reasonable accommodationsand for firing mployees because of perceived disabilities.
Health & Disability Advocateswill hold afree career fair for jobseekers with disabilities on May 21, 2013 from 1 - 4 p.m. Eastern Time.Jobseekers with disabilities will be able to "Get in Line" to chat with different employers nationwide who are actively recruiting people with disabilities. The chats will be text-based, similar to instant messaging-style chats. No audio or video will be part of the chat.
The National Disability Institute's LEAD Center will hold a webinar on May 29, 2013 from 3:00 – 4:30p.m, which will provide information on two best practices – Customized Employment and Customized Self Employment. Participants will learn how these practices can support job placement efforts for job seekers both with and without disabilities. Register online.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has released four revised publications on protection against disability discrimination in the workplace. The publications address how the Americans with Disabilities Actapplies to job applicants and employees with cancer, diabetes, epilepsy and intellectual disabilities. You can find these documents on the EEOC website under "Disability Discrimination, The Question and Answer Series."
The U.S. Department of Justice has signed an agreement with Stewart County, GA, to improveaccess to all aspects of community life for individuals with disabilities. The agreement is part of Project Civic Access,the department's effort to make sure that counties, cities and towns comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The county will make changes to the sheriff's department, health department, senior center, municipal center, recreational vehicle park and polling places.
The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announced that it will be sending persons with disabilities as Sports Envoys to China May 15 – 20, 2013to promote inclusion and equality in sports for persons with disabilities. The Sports Envoy program supports global promotion and practices that respect diversity in sports, and recognition that persons with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as people without disabilities.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
REGISTER TODAY FOR THE 2013 WORLD CP CHALLENGE
4-week health and wellness activity raises support for people with disabilities
Washington, D.C. (May 16, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is pleased to announce that the registration for the 2013 World Cerebral Palsy Challenge is now open. Register today to join an international competition for good!
UCP launched the World CP Challenge in September 2012 in an effort to provide an accessible health and wellness activity that is proven to promote healthy living and change participants' health and fitness habits, all while raising awareness and crucial funds for direct services and research for people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Cerebral palsy is a permanent disability resulting from damage to the developing brain, usually before birth. CP is the largest cause of physical disability in children; each year, approximately 10,000 infants in the United States will develop cerebral palsy.
World CP Challenge participants form teams of four and challenge themselves to take 10,000 steps a day, everyday, from September 4 through October 2. Throughout the Challenge, participants log their daily steps online, climbing virtual mountains around the world with each step and receiving weekly fitness tips and healthy recipes. And the ‘steps' can be any activity—the World CP Challenge is unique in that it enables everyone to be active in their own way with the option to convert more than 40 activities, such as yoga or swimming, into steps. The option to convert almost any activity into steps makes the World CP Challenge available to people of all abilities. Throughout the Challenge, participants can fundraise, with all proceeds supporting services to people with disabilities and cerebral palsy research.
This year, the World CP Challenge will held in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. In these countries, the event is known as “Steptember.”
The World CP Challenge is not only a great opportunity for individuals, but for corporations and organizations as well. The Challenge serves as an employee engagement activity, increases productivity and reduces sick days among company employees. Participating companies can have employees compete amongst themselves, as well against other organizations to see who can reach the top of each mountain first.
“UCP and our international partners are thrilled to announce that registration for the 2013 World CP Challenge is now open—and we encourage everyone to check out our website, learn more about the Challenge and sign up! The World CP Challenge is a fun and exciting way to get active, compete against other teams and help to raise support for people with disabilities around the world,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “It truly is an international effort to bring people together in support of a great cause. We hope you will join us, and see you on the mountain!”
To learn more about the Challenge, please visit our website, www.worldcpchallenge.org, or contact Sarah Abram at sabram@ucp.org.
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
2011 autism insurance reform law would run to 2019
SACRAMENTO (May 16, 2013) --The California Senate voted 36-0 to extend the state's 2011 autism insurance reform law, which is set to expire next year, until 2019. Sponsored by Seante President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg, the measure, SB.126,moves next to the Assembly.
Steinberg sponsored the existing 2011 law (SB.946) which is due to expire in mid-2014.
“An estimated 12,500 Californians are currently receiving early autism treatment under the 2011 law with estimated savings to taxpayers of $200 million annually in special education costs, which were previously funded by school districts or regional centers," Steinberg said after the vote. "Californians with autism now have access to the most extensive insurance coverage of any state in the nation.”
The current law requires state-regulated health plans to cover behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis, consistent with other benefits covered under their policies. Insurers are also required to maintain an "adequate" network of ABA providers.
Steinberg has also committed to working with Governor Jerry Brown to restorebehavioral treatment for children with autism who lost their services during the transition from the Healthy Families program to Medi-Cal.
“While SB 946 is a proud achievement, it's not nearly enough," said Steinberg. "This year we intend to fight to make sure all kids regardless of whether they're on public or private insurance get the benefit of behavioral therapy. We must seek to include behavioral treatment for autism in Medi-Cal Managed Health Care to ensure children receive necessary and equitable services.”
36% of special needs parents cite autism
WASHINGTON, DC (May 16, 2013) -- In its fourth annual survey of military families, Blue Star Families found widespread dissatisfaction among special needs parents in the military with medical, educational and housing services, including access to ABA.Of the 5,125 military families who responded, 19 percent said they were receiving special needs services through themilitary; of those, 36 percent cited autism as their child's disability.
A national, non-profit network of military families from all ranks and services, including guard and reserves, Blue Star Families conducted the online survey in November 2012 and obtained 5,125 responses from service members stationed domestically and abroad.The survey found that31 percent of the special needs parents enrolled in the military's Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)felt their participationhad harmed their military careers.
"Navigating the military healthcare system to obtain services can be challenging for caregivers for Exceptional Family Members (EFM)," the report said. "The National Council on Disability noted that it is even harder for young parents, those with more than one exceptional family member, those who themselves are exceptional family members, and those with a deployed service member."
Fewer than half of the families responding to the survey said they felt supported by their chain of command,the EFMP at their base or the surrounding civilian population.In addition, shortcomings were found with TRICARE, the Department of Defense health insurance program for active duty and retired personnel.
"Families may also struggle when trying to obtain recommended specialty services that are not covered by TRICARE, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children withautism," the report found. ABA has been restricted to active duty members by TRICARE and a one-year pilot program ordered by Congress last year for all service members has been delayed indefinitely due to budget issues. Inaddition, TRICARE has been sued in a federal class action suit for restricting access to ABA.
The survey also addressed the financial impact ofpaying out-of-pocket for services not covered under TRICARE by quoting two Navy spouses.
“He probably would've stayed in (active duty) if hefelt that wewould not have to spend so much money out of pocket obtaining speech, occupational, and physical therapy for our son,” said one. The other Navy spouse said, "Moving duty stations requires military families to re-enroll in EFMP program services. This means that children may be waiting for months, often times a year, to access services.”
Access to state Medicaid waivers also arose in the Blue Star report, which noted that every time a military family redeploys to another state theydrop to the bottom of the new state's waiver list.
"Sixty-four percent of respondents reported di?cultyaccessing community/state-based supports, suchas Medicaid waiver bene?ts," the report found. "In addition, 55 percent of respondents with an EFM also reported di?culty ?nding adequate housing when relocating."
Special needs parents overall said they were satisfied with their child's educational services, until they are required toenroll into another school district as a result of redeployment. Two thirds of the respondents said educational accommodations were "challenging" following relocation.
"Newschool districts will honor the previous individualized education program (IEP), but the district has authority to decide how the goals and objectives will be met and it maynot be through the same exact program or services," the report said.
Blue Star Families in the report urges better supports for special needs families when they relocate, including the ability to maintain Medicaid waiver services when they move to another state. Autism Speaks is supporting efforts to make TRICARE coverage of ABA for all military members permanent and atthe levels prescribed by medical professionals.
Bill requiring autism coverage, including ABA, approved 105-7
RALEIGH (May 15, 2013) -- The North Carolina House of Representatives voted 105-7 for a bill that would require state-regulated health insurers to cover common autism therapies, including ABA. The measure moves next to the Senate.
North Carolina is one of just 18 remaining states yet to enact autism insurance reform.
Sponsored by Reps. Chuck McGrady (R-Henderson), Tricia Cotham (D-Mecklenburg), Tom Murry (R-Wake) and Phil Sheppard (R-Onslow), HB498 would cover speech, occupational and physical therapy; behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis, would be covered for up to $36,000 a year. The bill would take effect October 1.
Benefits would be covered through age 23; children would have to be diagnosed by age 8 to qualify.
In addition, the bill would benefit military families stationed in North Carolina by removing restrictive laws that prevent providers covered under TRICARE, the Department of Defense health insurance program, from operating in the state. North Carolina is home to more than a quarter million active duty and retired military personnel stationed out of facilities such as Camp Lejeune, Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base.
Autism insurance benefits would continue past age 10 under bill sent to House floor
AUSTIN (May 14, 2013) -- The Texas House Insurance Committeeapproved 6-0 a bill that would eliminate the current age 10 cap for receiving autism insurance benefits. Already approved by the Senate, SB.1484 now heads to the House floor for a final vote.
Sponsored by Senators Kirk Watson of Austin, Wendy Davis of Forth Worth and Eddie Lucio, Jr. of Brownsville, the bill eliminates the current agecap of 10 onautism insurance benefits that was enacted in 2009. When Texas became just the third state nationally toenact autism insurance reform in 2007, coverage was limited for children aged3 to 5.
The current law requires state-regulated health plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism, including behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), as well as speech, occupational and physical therapy. The age change would take effect in September if the bill becomes law and would limit annual ABA benefits to $36,000 for children aged 10 and above.
Texas is one of four states with existing autism insurance reform laws that has picked up bills to expand coverage this year. A fifth state,New Mexico, has already enacted a new law expanding its coverage to public employees.
Clears House Insurance Committee by 25-4 vote
RALEIGH (May 14, 2013) -- The North Carolina autism insurance reform bill cleared its first hurdle today, gaining approval 25-4 in the House Insurance Committee. North Carolina is one of 18 remaining states yet to require state-regulated health plans to cover the screening, diagnosis and treatment of autism.
The bill goes next tothe House Appropriations Committee.
Sponsored by Reps. Chuck McGrady (R-Henderson), Treicia Cotham (D-Mecklenburg), Tom Murry (R-Wake) and Phil Sheppard (R-Onslow),HB498would cover speech, occupational and physical therapy; behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis, would be covered for up to $75,000 a year. The bill would take effect October 1.
In addition, the bill would benefit military families stationed in North CarolinA by removing restrictive laws that prevent providers covered under TRICARE, the Department of Defense health insurance program, fromoperating in the state. North Carolina is home to more than a quarter million active duty and retired military personnel stationed out of facilities such as Camp Lejeune, Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has announced $150 million in new funding to help more uninsured Americans enroll in new health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Funding will go to eligible community health centers to help consumers understand their coverage options, determine their eligibility and enroll in new affordable health insurance. The deadline for health centers to apply is May 31, 2013. Find a health center near you.
The U.S. Department of Justice has settled a lawsuitagainst the Golden Corral restaurant in Westland, MI, for disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The lawsuit alleged that Golden Corral refused to serve a mother and her children because they had a genetic skin disorder,epidermolysis bullosa. The mother explained her children's disability and that they weren't contagious, but the manager requested the family leave based on customer complaints.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has charged Fabricut, Inc. of Tulsa, OK with alleged disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Fabricut was also charged with alleged violation of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Actwhen it asked for the job applicant's family medical history. The company refused to hire an applicant after a pre-employment medical exam found that she may havecarpal tunnel syndrome.
The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) issued a notice of proposed priority for a Rehabilitation Research Training Center (RRTC) Program on Disability in Rural Areas. The RRTC would research ways to improve access to transportation in rural areas. People with disabilities make up approx. 13.2 percent of the rural population. Improving rural transporatation access would lead to more jobs and community living opportunities for residents with disabilities. Comments on the proposed priority are due byJune 6, 2013.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175,krichards@ucp.org
UCP ANNOUNCES UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA AS WINNER OF WORLD CP DAY INVENTION CONTEST
Team designs solar-powered wheelchair, awarded 1stprize of $20,000
Donates chair to man who submitted idea, funds to help advance World CP Day
Washington, D.C. (May 10, 2013)– United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) and its international partners have announced the winner of the first annual World CP Day invention contest: a team from the University of Virginia, who created a solar-powered wheelchair.
World CP Day was established in 2012 as a way to raise awareness and support for people living with cerebral palsy around the world. Through the “Change My World In One Minute” contest, people can submit ideas for something that would make a real difference in the lives of people with cerebral palsy—and an incredible 473 ideas were submitted. From these, three final ideas were selected: a fold-up motorized wheelchair, a documentary on cerebral palsy in the 21stcentury and a solar-powered wheelchair. The public was then invited to submit proposals for a chance to win $25,000 and to bring their ideas to life.
The team from the University of Virginia, led by Dr.Mool Gupta, included six students:Dennis Waldron, Duncan McGillivray, Craig Ungaro, Ankit Shah, Maria Michael and Kyung Kim,and was primarily constructed at the National Institute of Aerospace's Research and Innovation Laboratories Facility. The concept for the wheelchair was inspired by the design of retractable roofs on convertible cars and utilizes lightweight yet robust materials with high efficiency solar cells. This innovative combination enables the wheelchair to increase its range by more than 40 percent over battery usage, and to run a one mile per hour indefinitely without consuming any battery charge. Operated by a single switch, the wheelchair includes standard components as well as USB power outlets.
Awarded $20,000 for their first prize invention, Dr. Gupta and his students decided to use the prize money to refine and ship the wheelchair to the man who posted the suggestion online, Alper Sirvan, who has cerebral palsy, and donate the remaining proceeds back to UCP to help advance World CP Day in the years to come.
“UCP is thrilled to present this award to the University of Virginia for their creation of a solar powered wheelchair as part of the first World Cerebral Palsy Day's Change My Life in One Minute invention contest, which focused on concrete, attainable ideas that could change people's lives. We are very proud to say that, together with the incredible efforts of the University of Virginia, Dr. Gupta, and all of the students and partners involved, one of these ideas has been brought to life,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “And it is truly inspiring to hear of the University of Virginia's decision to use the prize money to send the wheelchair to the man who inspired the idea and return the remaining funds. I applaud these extraordinary individuals for their work, and appreciate their efforts in helping to ensure that people living with cerebral palsy can live their lives to the fullest.”
“This team of graduate and undergraduate students have created a device that will truly benefit those with disabilities,” Engineering School Dean James H. Aylor said. “The students on the team are excellent examples of the type of engineer we strive to produce in the U.Va. Engineering School – innovative leaders who are agents of change in society. I am thankful for the World CP Day organization for giving them this opportunity and for the National Institute of Aerospace for providing laboratory space.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visitwww.ucp.org.
About the World CP Day Campaign:
World Cerebral Palsy Day is an innovative way for 17 million people with CP to tell the world what they need to make their lives better and it's a way to turn some of those ideas into reality. World CP Day was piloted in 2012. From 1 August, people with cerebral palsy, their families and friends posted ideas online for something that could be created, developed or modified that would change the world for someone with cerebral palsy. Ideas were posted as text or video. Each idea needed to take only 1 minute to read or watch. From World CP Day, September 4, people were encouraged to go online, review the ideas and vote for the concepts that could have the greatest impact on people's lives. At the end of September, the World Cerebral Palsy Day Panel reviewed the ideas and public votes. Three ideas were shortlisted for development. Social activists, researchers, inventors, and innovators were then invited to turn the shortlisted ideas into reality. They competed for a total prize pool of $25,000. The winner was announced on April 27, 013.
World CP Day partners include organizations from America, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Finland, Germany, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Niger, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Scotland, Singapore, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, South Africa, St Lucia, Sweden, Turkey and the UK.
Providence Health Plan accused of mental health parity violations
PORTLAND (May 10, 2013) -- A federal class action lawsuit has beenfiled against Providence Health Plan claiming its denial of ABA coverage for autism treatment violates federal and state mental health parity laws.
Brought by the parents of two children, "A.F." and "A.P." alleges Providence“has established and carried out a deliberate company-wide policy to deny all claims for ABA treatment in violation of U.S. and Oregon law.” The mother ofA.P., Lucia Alonso, lost her home to foreclsoure when she could no longer afford both her mortgage and paying her child's ABA bills out-of-pocket due to the lack of insurance coverage.
The suit claims Providence's claims denials violate the 2008 Wellstone Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, Oregon'sMental Health Parity Act, and a state statute requiring that children with pervasive developmental disorders, such asd autism, receive“all medical services, including rehabilitation services, that are medically necessary and are otherwise covered under the plan.”
The suit was filed asa billis moving through the Oregon Legislature requiring all state-regulated health plans to cover the screening, diagnosis and treatment of autism.
Services lost as children transition from Healthy Families to Medi-Cal
SACRAMENTO (May 10, 2013) -- Autism Speaks has joined with advocacy groups from across California to protest the cutoff of ABA services for 900,000 children whoare transitioning from the Healthy Families Program to Medi-Cal.
The coalition is urging Gov. Jerry Brown to require that the ABA services be retsored through Medi-Cal.Read the statement here
House Majority Leader cited for 'intellectual leadership' on autism
WASHINGTON, DC (May 9, 2013) -- House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) has announced the introduction of theKids First Research Act whichprioritizes research funding for pediatric disorders, such as autism, in Congress.
"Autism Speaks commends LeaderCantorfor making autism a national priority through the Kids First Research Act," said Autism Speaks President Liz Feld. "Cantor's intellectual leadership recognizes the urgency that thousands of families feel and experience every day. Autism is not a partisan issue and we look forward to working with leaders in Congress and the Obama Administration in crafting a national strategy to address autism."
The bill, HR.1724, is sponsored by Rep. Gregg Harper (R-MS).
Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States with 1 in every 88 children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. A recent survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggested the actual prevalence could be as high as 1 in 50.
New research has found that the number of children with a neurodevelopmental or mental health disorder has increased by 16 percent in the last 10 years. The increases may be due to high rates of autism and attention deficit disorders diagnosed in children. The social acceptance of these conditions over the years also may explain the increases. The report also shows that over the same period of time physical disabilities in children have decreased.
The Federal Communications Commission has charged AT&T with improperly billing theTelecommunications Relay Service(TRS) fund for certain Internet-based TRS calls. TRS allows an individual who is deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or who has a speech disability, to have telephone communications. Internet-based Relay allows an individual who has difficulty hearing or speaking to communicate through the telephone system with hearing persons using a computer and the Internet.
The U.S. Department of Justice has reached a settlement agreement with an Oregon developer, David Montagne, Montagne Development Company, Gateway II LLC, Dav II Investment Group LLC and William Jones to remove accessibility barriers at Gateway Village in Salem, OR. The lawsuit alleged that the developers had violated the Fair Housing Act by building the complex with steps and other features that made itinaccessible to people with disabilities.
Join the Conversation for Change, a free, online dialogue toexamine the impact of existing federal regulations and legislation on the successful transition from school to work of youth with disabilities. The dialogue will be held May 13 - 27, 2013.The U.S. Departments of Labor, Education, Health and Human Services and the Social Security Administration will host the event and invitepolicymakers, service providers, advocates, youth with disabilities and others to join this online dialogue. Register online.
Recognized for outstanding efforts to employ people with disabilities
Washington, DC (May 9, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is proud to announce that Publix Supermarkets in Lakeland, Florida has been awarded the 2013 Employer of the Year Award as part of UCP's Awards for Excellence celebration.
Presented at UCP's 2013 Annual Conference in San Diego, CA, the Awards for Excellence recognize UCP affiliates, individuals and companies whose exceptional activities, achievements and dedication exemplify the UCP mission to educate, advocate and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities.
The Employer of the Year Award recognizes a business or agency that has made an outstanding contribution to employing people with physical disabilities or has supported the training and hiring of people with disabilities, and created an improved work environment. Employees with disabilities must be fully integrated into all aspects of the workplace.
Nominated by UCP of Central Florida in recognition of their long relationship with the company, Publix Supermarkets in Lakeland, Florida has demonstrated a commitment to diversity and helping people reach their full potential through meaningful employment. Publix sets a precedent for all workers to respect diversity and to be mindful of disabilities, including requiring all managers to attend diversity workshops entitled “Developing Cultural Competence.” In addition, diversity training and disability awareness are incorporated into new associate trainings, creating an inclusive and understanding community where everyone is valued.
“Publix fosters a workplace environment with a strong commitment to diversity," said Senior Vice President John Hrabusa. “I'm proud to accept this award on behalf of our managers who embrace inclusiveness and are dedicated to providing successful employment opportunities to people with disabilities.”
“Publix sets an impressive standard in the areas of diversity and employing people with and without disabilities,” said Dr. Ilene E. Wilkins, President and CEO of UCP of Central Florida. “Our goal at United Cerebral Palsy is for all people to have the ability to live life without limits. Publix provides that opportunity to thousands in their company, helping make a significant shift in our cultural views on employing people with disabilities.”
“UCP is proud to honor Publix Supermarkets for their efforts to create an inclusive work environment that only sees abilities, not differences. They have fostered a community of strong relationships and a culture of opportunity for employees with disabilities, who are able to take positions where they grow and can perform best,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of UCP. “This is an issue of critical importance, as the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is nearly double that of general population—and Publix stands as an example of what can be done by corporate citizens in the civil rights movement for people with disabilities.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedSITA Information Networking Computing USA, Inc. (SITA) in Atlanta with allegeddisability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A new employee requested a reasonable accommodation to be allowed to work part-time to complete her recovery from cancer surgery. Instead, SITA withdrew its job offer. The company has agreed to provide equal opportunity training to its staff.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has charged the Fort Worth Center of Rehabilitation (FWCR) with allegeddisability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A job applicant requested a reasonable accommodation in the form of a different drug test because of her kidney failure. Instead, the Texas-based FWCR denied her request and took back its conditional offer of employment. The center must pay damages to the applicant and take steps to avoid future discrimination.
The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, U.S. Department of Education, has issued a notice inviting applicants for new awards for PTICs in fiscal year 2013. PTICs provide parents of children with disabilities, from birth to age 26, with the training and information they need to help their children. Two awards will be given to PTICs that serve Montana and Arkansas. Application deadline is June 10, 2013 (CFDANumber 84.328M).
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has charged German-based companies Probat, Inc. and Probat Burns, Inc., d/b/a Bauermeister, Inc., in Memphis, TN with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A former employee atBauermeister with bipolar disorder had a manic episode, but when he was medically approved to return to work, the company fired him. Bauermeister has agreed to provide ADA training to its senior staff in its U.S. facilities.
As part of its Barrier-Free Health Care Initiative, the U.S. Department of Justice has announced a settlement agreement with Medical Facilities of America XXIX Limited Partnership, t/a Burke Health and Rehabilitation Center in Burke, VA. The agreement resolves allegations that Burke refused a request to provide a sign language interpreter for a deaf patient as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Join the Conversation for Change, a free, online dialogue toexamine the impact of existing federal regulations and legislation on the successful transition from school to work of youth with disabilities. The dialogue will be held May 13 - 27, 2013.The U.S. Departments of Labor, Education, Health and Human Services and the Social Security Administration will host the event and invitepolicymakers, service providers, advocates, youth with disabilities and others to join this online dialogue. Register online.
This year's National Prevention Week(NPW) runs from May 12-18, 2013. During NPW awareness is raised about mental health and substance abuse issues. This year's NPW theme is “Your voice. Your choice. Make a difference.” Sign and share the "Prevention Pledge" on the Facebook page of the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration to make a difference and commit to a healthy lifestyle.
Boxing legend Muhammad Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1984. Parkinson's disease affects a person's movement, balance and coordination. It can also cause difficulty in speaking and performing daily living activities. Ali's daughter, Maryum Ali, is a spokesperson for the Parkinson Alliance and helps to bring awareness about the disease throughout the country. Maryum Ali encourages others to learn all about Parkinson's and to seek treatment at the earliest signs.
Federal agency urges participating health plans to offer ABA coverage in 2014
WASHINGTON, DC (May 6, 2013) -- The agency in charge of managing health benefits for the nation's 8.2 million federal employees, retireesanddependents is urging its participating health plans to start covering ABA in 2014 or explain why they are refusing coverage.
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) last year recommended for the first time thathealth plans participating in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) programinclude coverage for applied behavior analysis (ABA). But of the 230 participating plans around the nation, only 67 offered the benefit for 2013 and many areas wityh large concentratiobns of federal employees, such as the National Captial Region, lacked coverage.
The coverage is significant as federal employees represent the largest single workforce in the United States. In March, a bipartisan coalition of 11 Members of Congress from Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia urgedOPM to demand better coverage from FEHB's participating health plans.
As the health plans now start developing their 2014 coverage, OPM has issued guidance that “encourage[s] plans to offer Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for children with autism,” and requires them to complete an online survey. The survey asks insurers that cover ABA in one of the 32 states that has enacted autism insurance reform whether they cover ABA for FEHB members and, if they do not, in what year they plan to do so.
For insurers that operate in Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, New Jersey, or South Carolina, states that require ABA coverage, have significant numbers of ABA providers, and large populations of federal workers, the survey goes a step further – it asks plans that do not offer ABA to explain their decision.
"We are encouraged by this action by OPM and will continue working with our champions in Congress to make sure this coverage is the best possible," said Stuart Spielman, Autism Speaks' senior policy advisor and counsel. "Our goal is to provide autism insurance coverage for every family regardless of their health plan or where they live. Strengthening coverage for the nation's largest workforce is an important part of that effort. FEHB plans in all 50 states and the District of Columbia should provide the comprehensive care that children with autism need. OPM must leave no families behind."
Less than half of the millions of Americans living with mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress receive treatment. National Mental Health Awareness Month helps address these problems by increasing access to care and eliminating the stigma associated with getting help for these illnesses. To find treatment services, call 1-800-662-HELP and for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, call 1-800-273-TALK.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has fined Southwest Airlines for late responses to complaints filed by passengers, including passengers with disabilities. The airline also did not adequately respond to the passengers' complaints in its responses. DOT found that Southwest failed to respond in a timely manner to many disability-related and other consumer complaints due to a problem with its website.
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CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
UCP HONORS EDWARD R. MATTHEWS WITH LEADERSHIP AWARD
Maul Award Recognizes Exceptional CEOs at United Cerebral Palsy
Washington, DC (May 2, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is pleased to announce that the 2013 Kathleen O. Maul Leadership Award has been awarded to Edward R. Matthews, Chief Executive Officer of UCP of New York City.
The Kathleen O. Maul Leadership Award is presented to an exceptional chief executive of a UCP affiliate in memory of Kathy Maul, a remarkable executive director at UCP of Suffolk who died young and left a legacy of leadership ability and strong commitment to UCP. It was presented as part of UCP's Awards for Excellence, which are given annually to UCP affiliates, individuals and companies whose exceptional activities, achievements and dedication exemplify the UCP mission to educate, advocate and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities.
Matthews recognized the 2013 honor for his dedication and long history working to improve the services and supports provided to people with disabilities, including: part of the Medicaid Redesign Team, responsible for overhauling New York State's massive Medicaid system; serving on the Steering Committee to implement the People First Waiver, a partnership between New York State and the federal government to reconstruct the Medicaid funding system for New York's citizens with developmental disabilities, to provide them greater choice and access and reduce costs; leading the InterAgency Council (IAC) in New York City, a coordinating body and trade association consisting of over 150 agencies providing services for people with developmental disabilities; and serving as CEO of UCP of NYC since 1989, during which the affiliate has grown to a budget size of over 107 million and provides services to more than 14,000 children, adults and their families throughout New York City.
“I am so pleased to honor Ed Matthews with the 2013 Kathleen O. Maul Leadership Award for his extraordinary efforts to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of UCP. “For more than 20 years, Ed has served as the CEO of UCP of New York City, leading and growing that affiliate into one of the strongest in the country—and a shining example of UCP's mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with a spectrum of disabilities. Congratulations Ed, and we look forward to your continued successes.”
“The Kathy Maul Award is very meaningfully personally and professionally. To me, it represents the values that Kathy & UCP have always stood for,” said Ed Matthews, CEO of UCP of New York City. “I am honored to join my distinguished friends and colleagues who have been recipients.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
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CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
UCP PRESENTS 2013 AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE
Awards recognize exceptional achievements, activities and dedication to UCP's mission
Washington, DC (May 2, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) has announced the honorees for the 2013 Awards for Excellence, which recognize UCP affiliates, individuals and companies whose exceptional activities, achievements and dedication exemplify the UCP mission to educate, advocate and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities.
The 2013 Awards for Excellence were presented at UCP's 2013 International Conference, “Redefining Family: Supporting the New Caregiver Community,” which explored how families have evolved and expanded above and beyond the traditional definition and the ways in which UCP and its affiliate network can best continue to provide and adapt to the needed supports and resources people with disabilities and their families need.
More than 150 affiliates, partners and allies participated in this year's conference, which featured UCP's Celebrity Ambassadors, Emmy-nominated actress Cheryl Hines and actor RJ Mitte, known for his role as Walter White Jr. in the Emmy-nominated AMC drama Breaking Bad. Actress Meredith Eaton, known for her breakout role in the ABC hit series Boston Legal, and granddaughter of one of UCP's founders, Nina Eaton, also helped to present the awards.
“UCP is thrilled to recognize so many extraordinary leaders who are striving each and every day to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “The Awards for Excellence honor our affiliates and partners who are committed to advancing the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with a spectrum of disabilities—and we are proud to stand with our honorees today.”
The eight 2013 UCP Awards for Excellence were presented to the following recipients at the Opening Reception and the Awards for Excellence dinner and presentation during UCP's International Conference, held last week in San Diego, CA.
The Kathleen O. Maul Leadership Award is presented to an exceptional executive director in memory of Kathy Maul, a remarkable executive director at UCP of Suffolk who died young and left a legacy of leadership ability and strong commitment to UCP.
Edward R. Matthews, Chief Executive Officer of UCP of New York City, was recognized with the 2013 honor for his dedication and long history working to improve the services and supports provided to people with disabilities, including: part of the Medicaid Redesign Team, responsible for overhauling New York State's massive Medicaid system; serving on the Steering Committee to implement the People First Waiver, a partnership between New York State and the federal government to reconstruct the Medicaid funding system for New York's citizens with developmental disabilities, to provide them greater choice and access and reduce costs; leading the InterAgency Council (IAC) in New York City, a coordinating body and trade association consisting of over 150 agencies providing services for people with developmental disabilities; and serving as CEO of UCP of NYC since 1989, during which the affiliate has grown to a budget size of more than 107 million and provides services to more than 14,000 children, adults and their families throughout New York City.
The Employer of the Year Award recognizes a business or agency that has made an outstanding contribution to employing people with physical disabilities or has supported the training and hiring of people with disabilities, and created an improved work environment. Employees with disabilities must be fully integrated into all aspects of the workplace.
Nominated by UCP of Central Florida in recognition of their long relationship with the company, Publix Supermarkets in Lakeland, Florida has demonstrated a commitment to diversity and helping people reach their full potential through meaningful employment. Publix sets a precedent for all workers to respect diversity and to be mindful of disabilities, including requiring all managers to attend diversity workshops entitled “Developing Cultural Competence.” In addition, diversity training and disability awareness are incorporated into new associate trainings, creating an inclusive and understanding community where everyone is valued. Publix offers an inclusive work environment that only sees abilities, not differences.
The Ritter Legacy Award recognizes an affiliate that has produced exemplary communications through a variety of media that increases public awareness about people with disabilities, the programs of the affiliate and the national UCP brand. The award also recognizes the affiliate's appropriate use of the official UCP logo, colors and messaging. The 2013 Ritter Legacy awardee is UCP of the North Bay for its 2012 Annual Report, “Season of Gratitude Holiday” Ask Program, which reached out to donors in a way that emphasizes personal impacts that each individual can make in supporting UCP programs, and the Who We Are & Where We are Going PowerPoint Presentation, which is a quick and effective way to share information about all of the affiliate's programs. UCP of the North Bay consistently develops communications that convey their mission, vision, and many facets of their services, and is honored for their innovative communications and powerful promotion of their programs.
The Outstanding Youth Award is designed to honor a young person who has significantly enhanced the lives of people with disabilities through caregiving, volunteerism, advocacy, innovation or fundraising. This year's awardee is Katy Fetters, nominated by UCP of Orange County. Fetters is an ambitious and motivated young woman. Her blog, Teen Cerebral Palsy, connects young people living with CP. She creates a safe space for people to share their experiences and get support from one another. Her honesty and positivity make her a wonderful role model for young people who are learning to be self-advocates. Fetters is also an active volunteer and ambassador for UCP of Orange County, and inspires teens to embrace their disabilities and challenge themselves to live a life without limits.
The Nina Eaton Program of the Year award recognizes a program of a UCP affiliate that has made an extraordinary contribution to the quality of life of people with disabilities, enabling them to become more independent, productive, or integrated into the family or community through a particular program. The 2013 award is presented to Ability Connection Oklahoma for their New Voices program.
New Voices is an assistive technology program that pairs non-verbal children (and some adults) with an Apple iPad with comprehensive language software that fosters communication efforts. One of the unique aspects of the program is that the iPad is theirs to keep, which facilitates more growth and progress in their ability to communicate.
New Voices is making it possible for children and adults to gain more independence and confidence. Some children are learning to speak for the first time or communicate with teachers, family and friends. Enabling communication through technology allows children to participate in school and other activities with greater ease, and promotes inclusion. Thanks to the digital technology, voices that were once silent are now heard, with one recipient of an iPad writing “you have made the possibilities limitless for me.”
The Ethel Hausman Volunteer of the Year award recognizes an exceptional individual who, through volunteering, has made an outstanding contribution to UCP. This year's award is presented to Jay Kapp, nominated by UCP of Georgia. His dedication to advancing UCP's mission extends the legacy of his father, the late Charles Kapp. Charlie was a senior sales executive with Miller Brewing Company, and his daughter Dana had cerebral palsy. Charlie was a long-time supporter of UCP and fostered Jay's involvement with UCP. Jay wishes to instill these same values in his two children. Kapp is an exemplary leader that has proved an excellent ambassador for UCP of Georgia, and has served on the Board of Directors for his affiliate since 2001. As the owner of the company Kapp Koncepts, Kapp utilizes his marketing, design, and management expertise to increase the visibility of UCP of Georgia on the local and state levels. Additionally, he attends the Miller Coors-Charlie Kapp Golf Challenge held each year by UCP of Southeast Wisconsin; the event is now in its 17th year.
Kapp's personal commitment to UCP is evident in the hundreds of hours he volunteers annually and his work to help UCP of Georgia expand its services, and he truly embodies UCP's mission through his service.
The Universal Accessibility Design Award recognizes an individual, business, government or governmental agency that has provided leadership developing a universally accessible environment by creating new tools modifying the environment, enhancing independent living or achieving a barrier-free environment.
Gina Hilberry, from Cohen Hilberry Architects in St. Louis, Missouri, represents UCP as its delegate to the ICC ANSI 117.1 Standards Development Committee and serves as Vice Chair of the Wheeled Mobility Task Force. The ICC, or International Code Council, was created in 1994 to develop a single set of comprehensive and coordinated national model construction codes and standards. Section 117.1 addresses access for people with disabilities. The specifications in this standard make sites, facilities, buildings and elements accessible to and usable by people with such physical disabilities as the inability to walk, blindness and visual impairment, deafness and hearing impairment, reaching and manipulation disabilities and reacting to sensory information. The intent of the 117.1 Standard is to allow a person with physical disability to independently get to, enter, and use a site, facility, building, or element. This section deals with the details of design and construction that can have a profound impact on the ability of people with disabilities to live and work in the community.
In 2012, the ICC began a multi-year process to update 117.1. Hilberry, as UCP's delegate, has shepherded the Wheeled Mobility Task Group in the critical job of applying recent research on the expanding size and variety of wheelchairs and scooters to the basic building blocks of accessibility that have been the U.S. standards for over 30 years. Thousands of buildings across the country will not require individual advocacy because the state requirements for access will already be in place, thanks largely to Hilberry's work. And, if history is any guide, the ADA's federal accessibility standards will, over time, incorporate equivalent expanded requirements. Hilberry has spent her architectural career dedicated to improving the standards and policies that enable people with disabilities to move freely and independently in their homes and community. It is the job of architects to make the built environment work for all of us, and Hilberry has truly brought honor to her profession, using the tools of architecture to persuade the powers that be to do what is right.
The Life Without Limits Award honors an individual with disabilities who has demonstrated leadership and achievement of such caliber as to be a significant role model to people with and without disabilities. This year, UCP honors Geri Jewell, nominated by UCP of Tampa Bay.
Throughout her life, Jewell has consistently broken barriers for people with disabilities. While best known as “Cousin Geri” on the NBC sitcom “The Facts of Life,” Jewell's life is symbolic of breaking many barriers for people with disabilities. She was the first person with a disability to have a regular role on a prime time series, and her portrayal was not one to be pitied but one that placed people with disabilities on par with other “typical” characters.
She was among the first comics with a disability to have her own regular stand-up routine, paving the way for Josh Blue and the many others that have come after her. She went on to appear in Emmy Award-winning movies, on Sesame Street and most recently on the HBO hit series, “Deadwood.” In 2011, Jewell released her autobiography, I'm Walking As Straight As I Can: Transcending Disability in Hollywood and Beyond. This candid memoir details her experiences from her traumatic birth in Buffalo, New York, to her rise to stardom as a stand-up comic to becoming a television star and documents the harsh realities of show business by recounting the relentless discrimination and abuse she suffered at the hands of people she trusted, and how she rose above it all. It has recently been recorded as an audio book, making her story even more accessible to others.
Beyond her roles on TV and screen, she is a tireless advocate for people with disabilities, speaking to corporations, government agencies and the media about the importance of treating people with disabilities the same way we all want to be treated. Jewell is famous for her uncanny ability to captivate the hearts of her audiences by using humor to facilitate attitudinal change. She brings to her presentations her personal experiences in life, which in turn allow people to gain insight into the prospect of seeing disability in a totally different light, creating hope where there is none, and joy where there is pain. We are honored to present Geri Jewell with the 2013 Life Without Limits Award for the many ways she has served as a pioneer for the civil rights movement for people with disabilities.
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
UCP RELEASES NEW REPORT ON STATES SERVING AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES
New format highlights states' successes with managed care and employment initiatives
Washington, DC (May 2, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) released the 2013 Case for Inclusion today, an annual report that tracks the progress of community living standards for Americans living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD).
The 2013 report, in addition to data from all previous reports since 2006, is available on UCP's website using a robust new web module and design athttp://www.ucp.org/the-case-for-inclusion/2013/.
Each state and the District of Columbia (DC) is analyzed and ranked based on five key outcome areas: promoting independence, tracking quality and safety, keeping families together, promoting productivity, and reaching those in need. Since 2006, these rankings enable families, advocates, the media and policymakers to fully understand each state's progress or lack of improvement, and help to protect programs and services against unwise funding cuts, as well as guide future reforms to promote inclusion and enhance the quality of life for these, and ultimately all, Americans.
This year's report highlights the progress that has been made, including:
· 38 states now meet the 80/80 Community standard, a dramatic increase from just 14 states in the 2007 report.
· As of 2011, 13 states have no state institutions to seclude those with ID/DD. 10 states have only one institution each.
· Since 1960, 209 of 354 state institutions have been closed, leaving just 149 remaining.
· 21 states now meet the 80% Home-like Setting standard (80% in settings with 1-3 residents). This is up from just 17 states in the 2007 report.
· 34 states participate in the National Core Indicators, an increase from 24 in the 2007 report.
· 15 states were supporting a large share of families through family support, up from just 10 states in the 2007 report.
The report also identifies problems, such as:
· All states still have room for improvement, but some states have consistently remained at the bottom since 2007, Arkansas (#50), Illinois (#48), Mississippi (#51) and Texas (#49).
· Just ten states have at least one-third (33%) of individuals in competitive employment. This is a downturn from 2007, when 17 states met this standard.
· Waiting lists for residential and community services are high and have grown from 138,000 people in 2007 to 268,000. At this level, a growth of 44 percent would be needed to meet the need for services.
New in the 2013 Case for Inclusion is highlights of three case studies—two that examine trends in managed care for those with ID/DD with reforms in Kansas and Massachusetts, and one outlining the success of Washington State in promoting competitive employment through its Employment First policy and practices.
· KanCare represents one of the most aggressive and comprehensive Medicaid reforms affecting those with ID/DD, directly integrating work, health and community; broadening the scope of benefits; and prioritizing competitive employment and improving health outcomes.
· As of January 1, 2014, individuals with ID/DD will be able to chose from the three private plans currently offered to Medicaid enrollees, all of which fully integrate medical and behavioral health benefits and home and community-based services.
· KanCare will focus on specific outcomes to determine success, including: increased competitive employment; improved life expectancy; integration of physical health, behavioral health and home and community based services; and improved health.
· The first state to implement a statewide pilot program (called a demonstration) for all dually eligible individuals, including those with ID/DD, Massachusetts aims to improve coordination of care, actual health outcomes, and overall quality of life for Americans with developmental disabilities.
· Individuals with ID/DD will have new benefits available through the ICO plans, including restorative dental services, expanded personal care assistance, and greater access to durable medical equipment, and the program defines its success on actual outcomes.
· Although the actual outcomes tracked have yet to be determined, some of the possible measures to be included include access, person-centered care, integration of services and enrollee outcomes.
· Washington State's Employment First policy supports employment and day program funds targeted for working-age adults and ensures that after nine months of employment services the individual may choose community access programs.
· By focusing its efforts on this narrow window of time, Washington's leaders and advocates addressed the difficult goal of finding a job directly through leadership, training and innovation, and clearly defined goals.
· The impact of this was profound: in seven years, the number of individuals competitively employed rose from 4,440 in 2004 (before the policy) to 5,562 by 2011.
“The Case for Inclusion is a valuable tool for United Cerebral Palsy and advocates across the country to use as we work to advance the civil rights protections and public policies that help support individuals living with disabilities, ensuring fair and full citizenship for all Americans. This year's report shows in great detail the states are able to provide services and supports that result in better outcomes for people with disabilities, as well as three case studies that can serve as road maps to success,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “It is our hope that the Case for Inclusion can be used to strengthen the efforts of states and advocates to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities.”
Using the interactivewebsite, users can:
· Compare state & national data.
· View state scorecards.
· Interact with the ranking map.
· Seehighlightsof the 2013 report, thetopandbottom 10 states, most improved states and those with biggest drops, and facts about the best performing states.
· Learn how to use the report toadvocatefor areas needing improvement in states, and promote achievements that maintain high quality outcomes, like eliminating waiting lists and closing large institutions.
· View in-depth information about each of the states feature in the case studies:Massachusetts,KansasandWashington State.
· Users can pull individual state outcomes and measures, track each state's performance over time, and compare states among one another and to the U.S. average. The Case for Inclusion data, tables and graphs are exportable and printable as needed for personal and professional use.
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
GAAD will highlight and introduce the subject of digital accessibility for people with disabilities, including Web, software, mobile apps and devices. Many designers, developers and technology users are unaware of where they can go to learn how to make technologies accessible and inclusive to users with different disabilities. On May 9, 2013, severalin-person public events will be held worldwide. Find out how to participate in these events and otherevents, or create your own.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued an order to implement section 718 and part of section 716 of the Communications Act. This order will require the accessibility of Internet browsers on mobile phones for people who are blind or have a visual impairment and equipment used for advanced communications services that are manufactured on or after October 8, 2013. This link opens a PDF document. This information is also in text format.
A Davenport, IA jury has awarded $240 million in damages - the largest verdict in the history of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - in a case involvingdisability discrimination and severe abuse. Hill County Farms, doing business as Henry's Turkey Service violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by subjecting male employees with intellectual disabilities to physical abuse and verbal harassment. The abuse included referring to the workers as "retarded" and "stupid," as well as hitting, kicking and at least one case of handcuffing.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has issued a “Notice on Service Animals and Assistance Animals for People with Disabilities in Housing and HUD-Funded Programs” to housing providers. The Notice explains housing providers' obligation under the Fair Housing Act to provide reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities who require assistance animals.The Notice also explains the revised definition of service animals according to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Would extend autism insurance benefits to 2019
SACRAMENTO (May 2, 2013) -- The California Senate Health Committee voted unanimously to release (SB-126), a bill that would extend the state'sautism insurance reform law to 2019. Sponsored by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg, the bill goes next to the Senate Appropriations Committee.
Steinberg sponsored the existing 2011 law which is due to expire in mid-2014.
The lawrequires state-regulated health plans to cover behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis, consistent with other benefits covered under their policies. Insurers are also required to maintain an "adequate" network of ABA providers.
Responding to widespread complaints of delays and denials of claims under the new law, state Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones issuedemergency regulations in March preventing state-regulated health insurers from limiting visits or costs for ABA treatment for autism. The order impacts an estimated 42,000 California children.
The California Health Benefits Review Program (CHBRP)concluded that SB.126 would have no "measurable cost impact."
The U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Justice (DOJ) released new guidance reinforcing the Fair Housing Act's requirement that multifamily housing be made accessible to persons with disabilities. The new guidance will help design professionals, developers and builders to meet the FHA requirements to "design and construct" accessible housing for people with disabilities.
Kasich, employee unions agree to start coverage July 1 for 40,000 children
COLUMBUS (May 1, 2013) -- More than 40,000 Ohio childrenwhose parents are covered under state employee health plans will begin receiving autism insurance benefits July 1 through agreements reached between their bargaining units and the Kasich administration. The agreements were reported byThe Columbus Dispatch. Read more here
Governor JohnKasich last December announced he would offer the insurance benefits to state employees and include the coverage as an essential health benefit under the state's Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plans. Ohio is the only state yet to enact autism insurance reform that has elected to include the coverage through the ACA plans, which start operation next year.
The coverage includes speech, occupational and physical therapy, as well as behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). A Kasich administration official said the state expects the cost will stay below 1 percent of total spending by the health plans.
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TheU.S. Department of Labor'sOffice of Disability Employment Policyand the HigherEducation Recruitment Consortium have signed an alliance agreement to work together to promote the employment of people with disabilities in higher education. The alliance willincrease recruitment, hiring, retention and advancement of people with disabilities at colleges, universities, hospitals, research labs, government agencies and related organizations.
Age cap would be eliminated, but ABA limited to $36,000 after age 10
AUSTIN (April 30, 2013) -- The Texas Senate approved SB.1484, a billeliminating the age 10 cap on autism insurance benefits, but added a $36,000 annual limit on ABA benefits after age 10. The bill also was amended to speed up the implementation date to September. It was approved 19-12.
Sponsored bySenators Kirk Watson of Austin, Wendy Davis of Forth Worth and Eddie Lucio, Jr. of Brownsville, SB.1484 eliminates the agecap on receiving autism insurance benefits. The original Texas autism insurance reform law was enacted in 2007 providing coverage for children aged 3 to 5, then was amended in 2009 to extend benefits through the age of 9.
The currentlaw requires state-regulated health plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism, including behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), as well as speech, occupational and physical therapy.
The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) examined voting accessibility on Election Day of 2008 finding that access had improved in polling places since 2000. All but one polling places were accessible. GAO estimated that 27 percent of polling places had no potential barriers; 45 percent had potential barriers, but offered curbside voting; and the remaining 27 percent had potential barriers, but did not offer curbside voting. Access the full report in PDF format.
The U.S. Department of Justice has reached a settlement agreement withthe Metropolitan School District of Decatur Township, IN, to prevent bullying and harassment in schools. The agreement comes in response to reports of possible racial harassment at a district school. Under the agreement, the district will work on preventingharassment based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion and disability, and make sure that all students have a safe and supportive learning environment.
Regulations would cover treatments such as ABA
ANNAPOLIS (April 26, 2013) -- The MarylandAutism Technical Advisory Group (TAG)today recommended newregulations forhealth insurance coverage for autism treatments, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA).The proposalwill now proceed through the regulatory process, includingan opportunity for public comment.
The autism insurance regulations are required to be finalized by November 1.
To read the proposal, go here
Sponsorships reach140 in House, 30 in Senate
BATON ROUGE (April 26, 2013) -- The Louisiana Legislature has adopted a concurrent resolution calling on Congress to pass the Achieving A Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act to help individuals with disabilities, including those on the autism spectrum, to save for their future needs. Sponsored by Rep. Ander Crenshaw (R-FL) and Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA), the bipartisan measure has now attracted 140 sponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives and 30 in the Senate.
Sponsored by Rep. Regina Ashford Barrow of Baton Rouge,Louisiana House Concurrent Resolution 54 calls on Congress to enact ABLE because of its strong bipartisan supportand because it "embodies sound economic policy by encouragingsavings and asset building."
The ABLE Act (HR.647and S.313) would allow the creation of tax-free Section 529 accounts for people with disabilities in order to save for their housing, transportation, health care, employment assistance and other needs without jeopardizing their eligibility for public benefits. A nationwide coalition of 50 disabilities groups, including Autism Speaks, has joined in support of the legislation.
The resolution can be read here
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The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched a new hotline — 1-855-VA-WOMEN — to answer questions about VA services and resources available to women Veterans. Callers can get information from VA employees about benefits including health care services for women. They can also be linked to information on claims, education, health care appointments or get referrals to homeless and mental health services.
A new study in the journal "Science" finds that children's learning disabilities (LD), includingdyslexia, dyscalculia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder and specific language impairment, are caused by genetic and environmental factors. Children frequently have several learning disabiltiies.For example, 33 to 45 percent of children with ADHD also have dyslexia. The study discusses the causes of LDs and the best way to teach children who have them.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has charged Baptist Health South Florida with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Miami-based hospital system allegedly failed to provide a modified work schedule as a reasonable accommodationrequested by a new employee who has epilepsy. Instead, the employee's hours were increased causing her health to deteriorate and, she was fired.
The U.S. Department of Labor's Disability Employment Initiative(DEI) funds grants totaling nearly $18 million to state workforce agencies to improveeducational, training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The grants come from theEmployment and Training Administration and the Office of Disability Employment Policy. Grant application deadline is June 4, 2013 (Funding Opportunity Number: SGA-DFA-PY-12-08).
Capitol events include push for critical legislation
AUSTIN (April 23, 2013) -- Texas Autism Awareness Day will be celebrated Tuesday, April 30 at the Capitol and include a series of events, including opportunities to meet with lawmakers to advocate for SB.1484, a bill that would eliminate the age 10 cap on benefits under the state's existing autism insurance reform law.
Judith Ursitti, Autism Speaks' director of state government affairs, will join with representatives from the Autism Society, fellow parents, advocates and lawmakers to celebrate the day and push for SB.1484 as well as HB.3276 which would require autism screening between the ages of 18 to 24 months.
To learn more, go here
A recent report by the U.S. Department of Labor highlights the agency's efforts to make sure that people with disabilities are fully included in its mission of improving job opportunities for Americans. "Real People, Real Impact"shares the department's initiatives, achievements and resources over the past four years to improve job opportunities for people with disabilities at the federal, state and local levels.
The U.S. Department of Justice has signed an agreement with the city of Jacksonville, FL, to improveaccess to all aspects of community life for individuals with disabilities. The agreement is part of Project Civic Access,the department's effort to make sure that counties, cities, towns and villages comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Follows pattern encountered in California, Missouri and other states
LEXINGTON (April 22, 2013) -- Nearly a year after the Kentucky Department of Insurance issued new rules designed to speed up claims for autism services, the delays and denials continue, according to reports by the Associated Press and the Lexington Herald-Leader. The experience follows a pattern in other states that have enacted autism insurance reform, such as California and Missouri, the AP noted.
"I don't see any basis for why this should be happening two years down the road," Daniel Unumb, executive director of the Autism Speaks Legal Resource Center, told the AP, referring to Kentucky's 2010 law. "I think they're still looking for a way to avoid the broad policy and the mandate."
Read the AP story here
Read the Herald-Leader story here
Letter from the National Council on Disability (NCD) to President Barack Obama recommending the importance of including ways to protect the economic well-being ofSupplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries in any further deficit reductions. Cuts in federal spending in the current law already threaten the well-being of low-income Americans with disabilities. The NCD lists four policy issues to consider that would allow SSI beneficiaries to save more money.
The U.S. Department of Justice has reached a settlement with Apple Tree Children's Center of Norwalk, IA, over alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Center allegedly failed to make sure that children with disabilities, including children with Down syndrome, have full and equal participation in its preschool program. The Center has agreed to change its policies to make its programs and services accessible to children with disabilities.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and theParalyzed Veterans of America will host the 33rdNational Veterans Wheelchair Games on July 13 - 18, 2013 in Tampa, FL. The games are open to all U.S. military Veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition due to mobility impairments. The games will also include a “Kids Day at the Games” on July 15 for local children with disabilities. The VA will also host aNational Veterans Summer Sports Clinicin San Diego, CA in September.
Alia Corporation, a fast-food chain has agreed to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit for allegedly having workplace policies that are against the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). The Merced, CA-based company allegedly demoted an employee with an intellectual disability and cut his hours and wages which forced him to resign. Alia has agreed to begin equal employment opportunity measures and to provide ADA training to its staff.
Urges behavioral health treatment be included in state program
SACRAMENTO (April 18, 2013) -- Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg said he will work for coverage of behavioral health treatment under the Medi-Cal Managed Health Care program and reiterated his commitment to a five-year extension of the state's 2011 autism insurance reform law.
Speakingat a Capitol rally for autism and other disabilities issues, Steinberg said, "While SB 946 is a proud achievement, it's not nearly enough. This year we intend to fight to make sure all kids, regardless of whether they're on public or private insurance, get the benefit of behavioral therapy. We must seek to include behavioral treatment for autism in Medi-Cal Managed Health Care to ensure children receive necessary and equitable services.”
Steinberg sponsored SB.946, the state's 2011 autism insurance reform law and has introduced a bill this year that would extend the current 2014 deadline to 2019. The new law has madeintensive early autism treatment accessible to more than 12,000 California children while saving state taxpayers up to $197.8 million in special education costs, Steinberg said.
The “Stand Up, Speak Out” rally was hosted by Autism Speaks,the Special Needs Network, Inc.,the Alliance of California Autism Organizations, and Center for Autism and Related Disorders.
Gillibrand raises critical issues with ABA program at Senate Armed Services Committee hearing
WASHINGTON, DC (April 18, 2013) -- Criticalquestions regarding a one-year ABA pilot program ordered by Congress but yet to be created were left unanswered by TRICARE during a hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Pressed by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), who chairs the committee's personnel subcommittee, TRICARE Director Jonathon Woodson said the pilot program would cover ABA technicians, but declined to say when the program would begin, whether dollar caps would be imposed or when military families would begin receiving information. Congress directed late last year that the program be up and running by April 2, but Woodson said the Department of Defense had been unable to meet the deadline due tobudget issues.
"We are moving ahead with all due haste to set up the program," Woodson told Gillibrand.
TRICARE began offering the ABA coverage as a medical benefit after a U.S. District Court judge last July ruled against the Department of Defense in a class action lawsuit brought by military families. TRICARE implemented the ABA medical benefit last summer, but most beneficiaries could not access services because of TRICARE's narrow definition of who can deliver care.
Before the judge's ruling last summer, TRICARE coverage of ABA care was limited to active-duty personnel and treatments were subject to dollar caps that did not address the level of treatment needed. Woodson said that if left to TRICARE's discretion, ABA would be considered an educational rather than medical benefit, “but the law says we have to provide it so we will provide it.”
Congress created the pilot program to improve TRICARE coverage for ABA as a medical benefit and expand access to a greater number of providers, but for now the details of the program are still unknown leaving families in limbo. An estimated 23,000 military families care for loved ones with autism.
"We call on TRICARE to be more transparent so that families and providers can plan accordingly," said Karen Driscoll, Autism Speaks' associate director for federal government affairs and military relations. "The pilot is essential to expand access to a greater number of ABA providers, but it is also important it address the level of care that has been medically recommended. The law is clear -- TRICARE must cover all medically necessary treatment."
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedApplied Vacuum Technology (AVT),a Waconia, MN-based company with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). The company allegedly fired an employee after he tried to return to work following a hospitalization because he didn't call into work daily and because the company considered him to have a disability. AVT has agreed to improve its workplace policies and provide training to its staff on the ADA.
Take this brief surveyto helpHealth & Disability Advocatesgather data to learn what workers with disabilities look for in an employer, particularly their interest in telecommuting options. The information will be used at the nextThink Beyond the Label Online Career Fair on May 21, 2013.The career fair helps connect qualified workers with disabilities with employers. Register online for the career fair.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced a Conciliation Agreement withColdwell Banker Residential Brokerage and the seller of a home in Worcester, MA, settling allegations they violated the Fair Housing Act(FHA). Coldwell and the seller violated the FHA by preventing the sale of a house to be used as a group home for people with disabilities.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Michael Hill: 202-973-7144,mhill@ucp.org
MetLife hailed for its commitment to people with disabilities,families at UCP International Conference in San Diego
Washington, DC (April 17, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is proud to announce that MetLife and the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning will receive the 2013 Chair Award as part of the Awards for Excellence celebration at UCP's 2013 International Conference, to be held in San Diego, California from April 25-27,2013.
The Chair Award is given to an individual, organization or company whose impact and support for UCP and its mission is deemed exemplary by the Chair of UCP's National Board of Trustees.
“MetLife has been a strong partner in educating our families about the need to plan for the future,” said Woody Connette, Chair of UCP's National Board of Trustees in announcing the award. “As a partner in UCP's public education programs, through presentations to our affiliates at national and regional meetings and in your ongoing stewardship of so many of our families, MetLife and the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning exemplifies the best of our mission to help people with disabilities lead a life without limits.”
MetLife, though the work of its Center for Special Needs Planning, has been a pillar of UCP's corporate partnership program since the inception of UCP's public education and outreach programs. By linking its expertise with the needs of the families that UCP serves, the company has been an instrumental advocate for UCP.
"I am honored and humbled to accept the 2013 Chair Award on behalf of the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning," said Kelly Piacenti, Assistant Vice President of the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning. "MetLife is proud to stand with United Cerebral Palsy in our continuing efforts to support the special needs community. It is our privilege and passion to assist families with special needs--helping families build financial freedom and also providing greater peace of mind to caregivers in planning appropriately for the future of their special needs dependents. We look forward to continuing to partner with United Cerebral Palsy in the years to come."
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About the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning and Special Needs Planners
Special Needs Planners are knowledgeable about many facets of special needs financial planning, and are enabled to work with local non-profit organizations and service providers to give support and to secure the highest level of independence for the special needs individual. National non-profit partners include The Arc, Autism Society, Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA), National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC), National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), TASH, Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance (TS Alliance), and United Cerebral Palsy (UCP).
Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MetLife) is a subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), a leading global provider of insurance, annuities and employee benefit programs, serving 90 million customers. Through its subsidiaries and affiliates, MetLife holds leading market positions in the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.metlife.com. MetLife is not affiliated with United Cerebral Palsy.
About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedEngineering Documentation Systems, Inc. (EDSI) in Las Vegas with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The company allegedly harassed a pregnant employee and refused to accommodate her request to be moved closer to a bathroom because of severe nausea and diarrhea. While on pregnancy leave, EDSI changed the employee's job description and later fired her. The company also fired her husband, who also worked at the company, when he complained about how his wife was treated. EDSI has agreed to provide equal employment opportunity training.
The U.S. Department of Labor's fiscal year 2014 budget request supports President Barack Obama's plan to create jobs through continued investments in job training and resources. The budget's $12.1 billion request in funding puts significant resources toward helping Veterans find jobs, particularly those with disabilities or other barriers to employment. It also supports improved re-employment services to help those newly separated from the military to transition into civilian careers.
SAN JOSE (April 15, 2013) -- Lorri Unumb, Esq., Autism, Speaks vice president for state government affairs, will be the keynote speaker at theCambridge Center for Behavioral Studies' West Coast Conference here on April 22.
Unumb's presentation,“Autism Insurance 101 for Parents and Providers” will help familiarize parents and providerswiththe different types of public and private health insurance plans. She willdiscuss pitfalls that providers and consumers should watch out for when attempting to utilize benefits.
Unumb will also discussstrategies for approaching employers who offer self-funded health insurance plans to volunarily provide autism benenfits. Self-funded health plans are regulated under federal law and do not require autism coverage.
Her remarks will also address the intersection of various funding streams for autism interventions and examine who should pay for what and when. The conference will be held at the School of Arts and Culture atMexican Heritage Plaza,1700 Alum Rock Avenue in San Jose.
To learn more, including how to register, go here
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has chargedWal-Mart Stores East, L.P. with sexual harassment and retaliationunderTitle VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Cleveland, OH store allegedly allowed a male employee to sexually harass a female co-worker with a developmental disability and took no actions to stop it.When the co-worker reported the harassment, she was fired. Wal-Mart is also charged with disability discriminationunderthe Americans with Disabilities Actfor not providing reasonable accommodations to the co-worker by informing her of the company's anti-harassment policies.
The 2013 ASHA Convention will be held November 14 - 16, 2013 in Chicago, IL. The convention is an annual event for speech-language pathologists, audiologists and speech, language and hearing scientists. Bringing together more than 12,000 attendees, the convention provides an opportunity to learn about the latest evidence-based research, polish clinical skills, improve techniques and gain new tools and resources to advance professional development. Register online.
Urge the committee to support autism insurance reform
SALEM (April 11, 2013) -- The Oregon Legislature's Joint Ways and Means Committee has scheduleda statewide series of budget hearings where autism advocates will have the opportunity to urge support for the autism insurance reform bills, SB.365 and HB.2897. The six hearings start tomorrow in Eugene and continue through April 25.
Eugene
Friday, April 12, 2:30-4:30 pm
Lane Community College Performance Hall Bldg. 6 at 4000 East 30th Avenue
Ashland
Saturday, April 13, 10:00-11:30 am
Southern Oregon University Music Recital Hall at 1250 Siskiyou Blvd
Bend
Friday, April 19, 4:30-6:00 pm
William Healy Armory at 875 SW Simpson Ave
Hermiston
Saturday, April 20, 1:30-3:30 pm
Hermiston High School Auditorium at 600 S 1st St
Portland
Tuesday, April 23, 5:30-7:00 pm
Portland Community College Cascades Moriarty Auditorium at 705 N. Killingsworth
Tillamook
Thursday, April 25, 5:30-7:00 pm
Port of Tillamook Bay at 6825 Officers Row
Gov. Martinez enacts first reform bill for 2013
ALBUQUERQUE (April 5, 2013)-- Governor Susana Martinez signed HB.22, expanding coverage under New Mexico's 2009 autism insurance reform law to includepublic employees. New Mexico becomes the fourth state to expand its original law to provide more coverage.
"Autism not only affects those individuals living with it, but it also has an impact on their families and loved ones," saidMartinez. "This bill will provide some measure of relief to autistic New Mexicans and their families by expanding many health insurance plans to include Autism Spectrum Disorder."
The signing ceremony was held at the University of New Mexico Development and Disability Center. The bill extended coverage from the 2009 law to the Health Care Purchasing Actforpublic employees,including state workers,municipal employees, and public school teachers.
The bipartisan measure was sponsored by Bernalillo legislators, Rep. James Smith (R) and Senator Bill O'Neill (D).
"Caring for a child with autism is an expensive challenge without the right health care coverage," said Shawna Childress, a teacher at East Mountain High School in Albuquerque. Shawnaworked withRep. Smith, a fellow East Mountain teacher, on getting the bill introduced.
The National Council on Disability (NCD), American Psychological Association, National Association of Social Workers and the Child Welfare League of America will hold a Congressional briefing on April 17, 2013 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. in Washington, DC. The briefing will cover the rights of parents with disabilities and the NCD publication,"Rocking the Cradle: Ensuring the Rights of Parents with Disabilities and Their Children".To attend, send an email to Stephen Miller.
Benefits.gov has launcheda YouTube channel.The channel currently showcases a self-help video about the site's confidential prescreening tool, the Benefit Finder.A YouTube account is not required to view the videos, but if you have an account,youcan subscribe to the Benefits.gov channel and receive emailswhen new videos are posted.
EITC is a federal income tax credit for low to moderate income working individuals and families. To qualify, you must meet certain requirements and file a tax return, even if you do not owe any tax or are not required to file. Use the EITC Assistant to find out if you are eligible and get an estimate of how much you will get back. This information is alsoin Spanish.
METLIFE CENTER FOR SPECIAL NEEDS PLANNING TO RECEIVE 2013 UCP CHAIR AWARD
Corporation hailed for its commitment to people with disabilities,families at UCP International Conference in San Diego
Washington, DC(April 9, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is proud to announce that MetLife and the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning will receive the 2013 Chair Award as part of theAwards for Excellencecelebration at UCP's 2013 International Conference, to be held in San Diego, California from April 25-27, 2013.
The Chair Awardis given to an individual, organization or company whose impact and support for UCP and its mission is deemed exemplary by the Chair of UCP's National Board of Trustees.
“MetLife has been a strong partner in educating our families about the need to plan for the future,” said Woody Connette, Chair of UCP's National Board of Trustees in announcing the award. “As a partner in UCP's public education programs, through presentations to our affiliates at national and regional meetings and in your ongoing stewardship of so many of our families, MetLife and the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning exemplifies the best of our mission to help people with disabilities lead a life without limits.”
MetLife, though the work of its Center for Special Needs Planning, has been a pillar of UCP's corporate partnership program since the inception of UCP's public education and outreach programs. By linking its expertise with the needs of the families that UCP serves, the company has been an instrumental advocate for UCP.
"I am honored and humbled to accept the 2013 Chair Award on behalf of the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning," said Kelly Piacenti, MetLife's Special Needs National Director. "MetLife is proud to stand with United Cerebral Palsy in our continuing efforts to support the special needs community. It is our privilege and passion to assist families with special needs--helping families build financial freedom and also providing greater peace of mind to caregivers in planning appropriately for the future of their special needs dependents. We look forward to continuing to partner with United Cerebral Palsy in the years to come."
About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visitwww.ucp.org.
About the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning and Special Needs Planners
Special Needs Planners are knowledgeable about many facets of special needs financial planning, and are enabled to work with local non-profit organizations and service providers to give support and to secure the highest level of independence for the special needs individual. National non-profit partners include The Arc, Autism Society, Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA), National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC), National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), TASH, Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance (TS Alliance), and United Cerebral Palsy (UCP).
Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MetLife) is a subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), a leading global provider of insurance, annuities and employee benefit programs, serving 90 million customers. Through its subsidiaries and affiliates, MetLife holds leading market positions in the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. For more information, visitwww.metlife.com.
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The TDI-ALDA joint conference will be held October 16 - 20, 2013 in Albuquerque, NM. "Working Together for Access" will bring together consumers, government policymakers and industry representatives to discuss providing access to current and emerging technologies for people with hearing loss. Register online.
“Trends in Disability Employment – National Update” reports that the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest numbers show that there has been an increase in employment for working age people with disabilities. The employment-to-population ratio increased from 25.9 percent in March 2012 to 27.3 percent in March 2013. Duringthe same time period, for people without disabilities, the employment-to-population ratio remained about the same.
The U.S. Department of Justice has announced that, as part of its Barrier-Free Health Care Initiative, it has reached settlements with eight health care providers from across the country over the past year. Health care providers, including hospitals, medical clinics, nursing homes and doctor's offices are required, under the Americans with Disabilities Act, to provide effective communication to those who are deaf or have hearing disabilities when seeking medical services.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is requesting applications from young leaders to serve on its Youth Preparedness Council (YPC). Youth between the ages of 12 and 17 who are involved in and interested in the field of community preparedness are encouraged to apply. YPC members will complete a youth preparedness project, share their opinions and ideas about youth disaster preparedness with FEMA leadership and participate in the YPC summit. Deadline for nominations and applications is April 19, 2013.
This year's conference is open for presentation proposals until May 28. The conference will be held October 8 – 11, 2013 in Albuquerque, NM. This year's themes are: The Rehabilitation Act's 40 year anniversay, access to health for women with disabilities, collaboration between community, business and government, business brain injury and families and assistive technology. Register online and check back for the conference program and schedule.
An opportunity for businesses and individuals across the United States to connect with people with disabilities, parents of youth with disabilities, caregivers and more. This first-of-its-kind event, whichwill be held August 23 - 26, 2013,willshowcaseopportunities and resources available to meet people's goals and dreams. Register for the expo online.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has taken significant steps towards eliminating radon exposure in HUD housing programs. HUD has two new policies that will include radon testing and the efforts to reduce the risks of having radon in any of the homes. Radon is a cancer-causing gas that is colorless and odorless. It can exist in any building and must be tested for to determine if it is in the home. Radon is responsible for 21,000 lung cancer death every year in the U.S.
Gov. Martinez enacts bill expanding coverage under 2009 law
ALBUQUERQUE (April 5, 2013)-- Governor Susana Martinez signed HB.22, expanding coverage under New Mexico's 2009 autism insurance reform law to include state employees. New Mexico becomes the fourth state to expand its original law to provide more coverage.
"Autism not only affects those individuals living with it, but it also has an impact on their families and loved ones," saidMartinez. "This bill will provide some measure of relief to autistic New Mexicans and their families by expanding many health insurance plans to include Autism Spectrum Disorder."
The signing ceremony was held at the University of New Mexico Development and Disability Center. The bill exte4nded coverage from the 2009 law to the Health Care Purchasing Actforpublic employees,including state workers,municipal employees, and public school teachers.
The bipartisan measure was sponsored by Bernalillo legislators, Rep. James Smith (R) and Senator Bill O'Neill (D).
"Caring for a child with autism is an expensive challenge without the right health care coverage," said Shawna Childress, a teacher at East Mountain High School in Albuquerque. Shawnaworked withRep. Smith, a fellow East Mountain teacher, on getting the bill introduced.
The National Institutes of Health funded a study examining the costs of caring for people with dementia in the United States. The 2010 study reviewed medical costs and costs of informal and unpaid care for people with dementia. The care costs totaled between $159 - $215 billion dollars, rivaling the costs for cancer and heart disease. These findings are especially important as people age 65 and older are expected to double in the next 20 years.
The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that the unemployment rate last month edged down to 7.6 percent. Disability employment statisticsfor March show an unemployment rate among people with disabilities that moved up slightly from12.3 in February to13percent last month. The percentage of people with disabilities in the labor force was 20.7 percent, and the percentage of people with no disability in the labor force was 68.7 percent. A year ago the unemployment rate among people with disabilities was 15.2 percent.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has charged Dependable Health Services, Inc. (DHS) with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). The San Antonio-based company fired an employee after she returned to work after being hospitalized for stroke-like symptoms. The employee had been medically cleared to return to work, but was still having temporary facial paralysis when she was fired. DHS has agreed to train its staff on the ADA.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the National Fair Housing Alliancehave launched a national media campaign, which coincides with the beginning of Fair Housing Month. “Fair Housing Is Your Right. Use It” includespublic service announcements to educate the public and housing providersabout their rights and responsibilities under the Fair Housing Act(FHA). The campaign features people with disabilities who often face housing discrimination.
New bill introduced in legislature
CHARLOTTE (April 4, 2013) -- WBTV reports on the introduction of North Carolina's new autism insurance reform bill through the eyes of parent advocates.
Bob D'Amelio recallsbeing advised by friends toput their newly diagnosed son, Christopher,"in a home" and have more children. Instead, he and is wife spent over $100,000 out-of-pocket to get Christopher the help they needed. Now they are fighting to get more North Carolina parents the help they need through legislation requiring state-regulatedinsurers to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism.
A new study in "The Journal of Pediatrics" finds that a child's risk for developing an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not increased by giving the child "too many vaccines too soon." More than 1 in 10 parents refuse or delay vaccinations for their young children, despite scientific proof that vaccines do not cause autism. These parents fear that the total number of vaccines given in early childhood may increase the risk of autism.
Missouri kids come to Kansas town for ABA treatment
PRAIRIE VILLAGE (April 3, 2013) -- KCTV Reporter Erika Tallon reports on the phenomenon of Missouri kids, whose state requires autism insurance coverage, crossing the border toPrairie Village inKansas, which does not requirecoverage, to getABA treatment. Mike Wasmer, Autism Speaks associate director of state government affairs, was interviewed.
House Finance Committee sends insurance reform bill to House floor
HONOLULU (April 3, 2013) -- The Hawaii House Finance Committee unanimously approved Luke's Law, the autism insurance reform bill, setting up a final floor vote in the House. The bill, SB.668, has already been voted out of the Senate
Sponsored by Senators Josh Green (D-Kohala/Kona) and Russell Ruderman (D-Puna, Ka'u), the bill would include up to $50,000 a year in coverage for behavioral health treatments, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). In addition, the bill would require coverage for autism-related psychiatric, psychological, pharmaceutical and therapeutic care.
Benefits would apply though age 25.
Read the submitted testimony here
President Barack Obama has announced the "BRAIN" Initiative, a new research effort to understand how the mind works and find ways to treat, prevent and cure brain disorderslike Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, autism, epilepsy and traumatic brain injury. BRAIN (Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies) is one of the Administration's "Grand Challenges"that calls to achieveadvances in science and technology which will save lives and also create jobs and industries of the future.
SACRAMENTO (April 3, 2013) -- Autism and disability rights organizations from across California, including Autism Speaks, will rally April 17 at the State Capitol to press for 2013 legislative initiatives. Learn more here
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that 6.4 million children aged 4 to 17 have been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) disorder at some point in their lives. The number of children diagnosed with ADHD has increased significantly over the past 10 years, with two-thirds taking prescription drugs for the disorder.
President Barack Obama officially proclaimed April 2, 2013 World Autism Awareness Day. The president wants this day to raiseawareness aboutautism spectrum disorders that affect 1 out of 88 children in America. The proclamation commits to helping individuals with autismto reach their full potential.
Tarheel State Lights It Up Blue with new reform initiative
NEW YORK (April 2, 2013) -- North Carolina celebratedWorld Autism AwarenessDay with the introduction of a bipartisan bill that would require state-regulated health insurance plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism.
Autism Speaks has endorsed the bill, HB.498, which is sponsored by Reps. Chuck McGrady (R-Henderson), Tricia Cotham (D-Mecklenburg), Tom Murry (R-Wake), and Phil Shepard (R-Onslow).
North Carolina is one of just 18 states yet to reform itsinsurance laws to require the coverage of autism. The new bill would cover speech, occupational and physical therapy; behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis, would be covered for up to $75,000 a year. The bill would take effect October 1.
In addition, the bill would benefit military families stationed in North Carolinaby removing restrictive laws that prevent TRICARE providers from operating in the state. TRICARE is the Department of Defense health insurance program. More than a quarter million active duty and retired military personnel and their dependents reside atinstallations in North Carolina, including Camp LeJeune, Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base.
?"We commend our legislative champions for their leadership on this issue of critical concern to thousands of North Carolina families,"? said Lorri Unumb, Esq., Autism Speaks vice president for state government affairs. ?"Autism Speaks joins North Carolina's autism community in calling on the legislature to pass HB.498 and join the growing majority of states that have ended healthcare discrimination against children with autism."?
In addition to North Carolina, Hawaii, Nebraska, Minnesota, Oregon, Tennessee and Georgia are pursuing autism insurance reform and five other states are moving bills to expand their existing coverage.
President lays out plan 'to revolutionize our understanding of the human brain'
WASHINGTON, DC (April 2, 2013) -- President Obama commemorated World Autism Awareness Day by announcing the launch of a$100million brain science initiative "designed to revolutionize our understanding of the human brain." The announcement was made fromthe White House following an event in the Blue Room where Autism Speaks and other advocates celebrated "Light It Up Blue."
The goal ofthe Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative will be to helpresearchers find new ways to treat, cure, andpotentially preventbrain disorders, such as autism, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injury.
Shortly after the White House announcement, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) announced a new bill would be introduced in Congress to prioritize research funding for autism.
"As humans, we can identify galaxies light years away, we can study particles smaller than an atom," the President said. "But we still haven't unlocked the mystery of the three pounds of matterthat sits between our ears....So, as a result, we're still unable to cure diseases like Alzheimer's or autism, or fully reverse the effects of a stroke."
The BRAIN initiative, Obama said, "will change that by giving scientists the tools they need to get a dynamic picture of the brain in action and better understand how we think and how we learn and how we remember. And that knowledge could be -- will be-- transformative."
The BRAIN initiative will allocate $100 million to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, and the National Science Foundation.NIH will allocate $40 million to its Blueprint for Neuroscience Research, that supports the development of new tools, training opportunities, and other resources.
Additionally, President Obama signed a proclamation declaring April 2 World Autism Awareness Day.
"...While our country has made progress in supporting Americans with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), we are only beginning to understand the factors behind the challenges they face," the proclamation reads. "On World Autism Awareness Day, we recommit to helping individuals on the autism spectrum reach their full potential."
The proclamation stated that theAffordable Care Act, which will go into full operation in 2014, "will make it illegal for insurance companies to discriminate against men and women with preexisting conditions, including ASDs. And looking ahead, my Administration is investing in medical research that can help unlock tomorrow's breakthroughs in autism detection, intervention, and education."
Autism Speaks President Liz Feld said, "We welcome the President's announcement of this critically important initiative. At the same time, we intend to continue working closely with the administration to assure the Affordable Care Act fullyincorporates behavioral health treatment for autism as an essential health benefit."
House Majority Leader announces new bill on World Autism Awareness Day
WASHINGTON, DC (April 2, 2013) -- House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) marked World Autism Awareness Day by announcing a new bill to prioritize research funding for pediatric disorders, such as autism, willbe introduced shortly in Congress. Cantor said the Kids First Research Act, to be sponsored by Reps. Gregg Harper (R-MS) and Tom Cole (R-OK), would be funded by eliminating public financing for presidential campaigns.
Cantor posted his announcement shortly after President Obama unveiledthe launch of a $100 million brain research inititiative for disorders such as autism.
"As we mark World Autism Day and the beginning of Autism Awareness Month, thousands of Americans will be thinking about what they can do to promote awareness and research into autism spectrum disorder," Cantor said in a blog posted on his website. "I believe it is important for the Federal government to do the same.
"It's not enough to just conduct research for new treatments—we need to be pushing for research that will help uncover the cure for autism spectrum disorder and many other diseases impacting children," he said.
Cantor said the research would be funded by eliminating public financing of presidential campaigns as well as the Republican and Democratic national conventions. The resources would be reallocated to the National Institutes of Health.
"Just two weeks ago, researchers reported that 1 in 50 school aged children are affected by autism spectrum disorder," Cantor said. "That's too many. And that's why I can think of no better use for the millions of taxpayer dollars currently spent on presidential campaigns and political party conventions than funding the medical research that holds the key to improving the quality of life for so many Americans."
Autism Speaks President Liz Feld said, "Autism Speaks welcomes efforts in Congress to prioritize research funding for autism."
Celebrates World Autism Awareness Day
ST PAUL (April 2, 2013) -- Governor Mark Dayton today voiced strong support for autism insurance reform bills nearing a final vote in both the Minnesota House of Representatives and Senate.
Meeting with autism advocates at a World Autism Awareness Day event at the state capitol, Daytonsaid it was critical for public and private health insurance to align benefits so that children get the services they need, regardless of the type of insurance they have.
In the legislature, the bills HF.181 and SF.314 await final committee votes in the Legislature. The bills would require state-regulated health plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism.The Governor's budget also includes a proposal for a comprehensive autism benefit under Medical Assistance.
Dayton also released a letter he has sent to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services requesting that the federal government require coverage for autism services, including applied behavior analysis (ABA), as it implements the Affordable Care Act.
The covered services would includecomprehensive, multi-disciplinary diagnostic assessment,ongoing progress evaluation,early intensive intervention, such as ABA,neuro-developmental and behavioral health treatments, andspeech, language,occupational and physical therapy.
April is National Autism Awareness Month and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has released a statement on the progress made in helping people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Initiatives include the Administration for Community Living, which works to improve the lives of people with disabilities and the Affordable Care Act, which is helping to meet the health care needs of people living with ASD, among many others.
The Deaf Seniors of America conference will be held August 21 - 27, 2013 in Baltimore, MD. The conference will bring together deaf senior citizens from across the United States, Canada and other countries to participate in workshops, seminars and presentations. Sessions will cover health issues, government services and programs, Social Security, deaf history, travel and money management. Registerby downloading and completing thisPDF form.
President Obama proposed a human brain initiative that he likened to the Human Genome Project today that could help find treatments for Alzheimer's, autism and traumatic brain injuries.
President Obama proposed a human brain initiative that he likened to the Human Genome Project today that could help find treatments for Alzheimer's, autism and traumatic brain injuries.
“As humans we can identify galaxies light-years away, study particles smaller than an atom but we still haven't unlocked the mystery of the three pounds of matter than sits between our ears,” Obama said.
The proposal will be sent to Congress next week. Despite the struggle for budget cuts, there is support for the econmic gains a research program like this can create.
“Investing in biomedical research is one of the wisest chouces we can make as a nation,” National Institutes of Health director Dr. Francis Collins told the gathering. “The United States has been at the forefront of one medical breakthrough after another.”
The American Council of the Blind's (ACB) 52nd annual conference and convention will be heldJuly 4 - 12, 2013 in Columbus, OH."Discovering New Worlds" will feature seminars, workshops, programs and technology. Suscribe to the ACB convention email listto receive convention information announcements. Pre-registration will be available June 1, 2013.
The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) will hold its 2013 Convention on June 27 - 30, 2013 in Portland, OR. This year's convention will feature seminars and workshops related to hearing loss and creating adaptive workplaces. Plan to attend the research symposium to learn about the latest developments in hearing rehabilitation research.Register online.
The National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic brings together Veterans and active duty servicemen and women with disabilitiesfor an exciting week of adaptive winter sports. This year the Clinic will be held March 31 - April 5, 2013 inSnowmass, CO. It will feature skiing,cross country, rock climbing, scuba diving, kayaking, trapshooting and snowmobiling. The Clinic is co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Disabled American Veterans.
The U.S. Department of Labor has issued two briefs that give recommendations to state and federal policymakers, employers and health care industry leaders on retaining experienced, older workers in the workforce. The recommendations come from the Department's Office of Disability Employment Policy, which gatheredexperts on aging, disability and employment to discuss the impact of aging on the national workforce and health care systems.
The U.S. Department of Justicehas intervened in a pending class action lawsuit against the state of Oregon. DOJ alleges that Oregon has violated Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act andSection 504 of the Rehabilitation Act by unnecessarily segregating individualswith intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in sheltered workshops when they could be served in integrated employment settings.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new drug called Tecfidera to treat adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). For most MS patients, periods of worsening disability (relapses) are usually followed by recovery periods (remissions). Over time, these recovery periods may be incomplete, resulting in a progressive increase in disability. Tecfidera may help protect the body from infection and decrease the number of relapses.
The U.S. Access Board will hold the next webinar in its monthly series on April 4, 2013 from 2:30 - 4 p.m. Eastern Time. The free webinar will cover the requirements in the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standardsfor restaurants and cafeterias. Questions for the webinar can be submitted in advance.Register online.
TheU.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has charged Presbyterian Healthcare Associates Corp. in North Carolina with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Presbyterian Healthcare offered a job to an applicant pending a health exam. When the applicant disclosed his knee impairment during the exam, the company allegedlytook back its job offer because it viewed the applicant as disabled. The EEOC is asking the company for back pay and other compensation.
Bill would extend autism insurance coverage through mid-2019
OAKLAND (March 26, 2013) -- The California Health Benefits Review Program (CHBRP) has concluded that SB.126, a bill that would extend the state's autism insurance reform law another five years, would have no "measurable cost impact."
CHBRP was directed to analyze the bill by the Senate Health Committee which has scheduled an April 10 hearing on SB.126, which is sponsored by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg. Steinberg sponsored the current autism insurance reform law which expires in July 2014. SB.126 would extend the requirement to July 2019.
In addition to the Steinberg law, CHBRP said the state's mental health parrity law requirescoverage for intensive behavioral intervention therapies, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA). The agency estimatedthat the laws require coverage for 127,000 individuals with autism who are enrolled in state-regulated health plans; of that number,"12,700 are estimated to currently use intensive behavioral intervention therapies."
Read the CHBRP analysis here
Key panel recommends including ABA through its Affordable Care Act plans
WASHINGTON, DC (March 25, 2013) -- The District of Columbia Health Benefit Exchange Authority has recommendedthat coverage for applied behavior analysis (ABA) be required in the new health plans created later this year under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).Therecommendation now requires only the approval of the District Council.
All 50 states and the District of Columbia are deciding whether to include coverage for behavioral health therapy, such as ABA, as an essential health benefit in their ACA health plans. Roughly half the states have now chosen to do so, either as a mental health service or as an habilitative care service.
The recommendation was approved unanimously. It defines habilitative care as "Health care services that help a person keep, learn or improve skills and functioning for daily living, including, but not limited, to applied behavioral analysis (ABA) for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder."
Will fund Department of Defense Autism Research Program
WASHINGTON, DC (March 22, 2013) -- A government funding bill approved by Congress includes$6 millionfor the Department of Defense Autism Research Program.
The new funding is part of the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs which has awarded 85grants valued at $41.4 million for autism research since the program was created in 2007 through efforts spearheaded by Autism Speaks.The new funding was included ina Continuing Resolution approved by Congress to fund government operations through the end of the current federal budget in September. The bill awaitsPresident Obama's signature.
Congress approved the additional funding as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)issued the results of a national survey which indicated the actual rate of prevalence in the United States could be in 1 in 50 children. The new data do not replace the CDC's official 1 in 88 prevalence rate, but indicates prevalence is on the rise.
The Department of Defense funding is in addition to the research funding authorized under the 2011 Combating Autism Reauthorization Act for the National Institutes of Health.Any impact of sequestration on the appropriation is not yet clear.
Senators, House members call for national strategy
WASHINGTON, DC (March 22, 2013) -- Key Congressional champions for increased autism research and servicessay a new federal survey which found a 1 in 50 autism prevalence rate increases the urgency for a national strategy to address the epidemic.
In a telephone survey of 100,000 parents of children aged 6 to 17, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found a 1 in 50 prevalence rate. The report indicates the nation's prevalence rate may be higher than the official 1 in 88 rate, but does not replace that finding.
"The need for a comprehensive federal response to combat autism remains clear," said Sen. Robert Menendez (D-NJ), the Senate sponsor of the $693 million reauthorization of the Combating Autism Act enacted in 2011. "These new numbers further corroborate what other studies have shown: there is a desperate need for us to redoubleour efforts to help these children learn and develop into happy, productive adults."
Menendez pledged to support continued federal funding forresearch on new diagnostic methods and therapies.
Rep. Mike Doyle (D-PA), who co-chairs the bi-partisan Congressional Autism Caucus, said the CDC report was "an urgent call for action by the federal government to address this growing epidemic.There's just no avoiding the conclusion that it's imperative that the federal government dedicate more resources to diagnosing and treating children with autism disorders.
“This isn't a political issue," Doyle said. "There's been strong bipartisan, bicameral support for helping individuals with autism – ranging from additional research to additional training of health care and education professionals. All of that requires more federal funding."
Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), in a blog pubished in The Jewish Week, said, "Autism levels are growing and our government plays a key role in the solutions. We need to help support better scientific and medical understanding regarding autism. We also need to work every day to improve opportunities for people who already have Autism to get needed therapies, school supports and transitional services so they can get into jobs and have lives of dignity and respect."
Majority Leader responds to 1 in 50 prevalence survey
WASHINGTON, DC (March 20, 2013) -- Responding to today's report of a 1 in 50 autism prevalence rate, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) posted a blog on the Autism Speaks Facebook page pledging to make autism a House Republican priority.
"Today's news that 1 in 50 school kids has autism is sobering," Cantor wrote. "These children and their hardworking parents are overcoming challenges on a daily basis, and in Congress we must prioritize policies that will assist them."
Cantor was responding to the release of findings by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention which found a 1 in 50 prevalence rate in a telephone survey of 100,000parents nationally with children aged 6 to 17. The findings do not replace the official 1 in 88 prevalence rate. (To learn more about the study, go here)
In his blog post, Cantor said House Republicans this year "will renew our focus on school choice, which allows parents with autistic children to find the best school that suits their needs. This is critically important. We will also address prioritizing medical research funding, so that we can continue to study the cause and treatment of disorders such as autism.
"Working with parents and organizations like Autism Society and Autism Speaks," he continued, "I know we can take positive steps forward. On April 2, World Autism Day, we will have an opportunity to reflect on these issues, and the children they affect."
Measure moves next to House Finance Committee
HONOLULU (March 19, 2013) -- The House Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce approved SB.668by a 9-0 vote with amendments which would delay implementation until 2015. Already voted out of the Senate, the measure moves next to the House Finance Committee.
Sponsored by Senators Josh Green (D-Kohala/Kona) and Russell Ruderman (D-Puna, Ka'u), the bill would include up to $50,000 a year in coverage for behavioral health treatments, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). In addition, the bill would require coverage for autism-related psychiatric, psychological, pharmaceutical and therapeutic care.
Benefits would apply though age 25.
Would amend state's 2007 autism insurance reform law
AUSTIN (March 19, 2013) -- Autism Speaks today endorsed SB.1484which would eliminate the age 10 cap for receiving benefits under Texas' 2007 autism insurance reform law. The law originally required coverage between the ages of 3 and 5, then was raised through age 9 in2009.
The new bill is sponsored by Senators Kirk Watson of Austin, Wendy Davis of Forth Worth and Eddie Lucio, Jr. of Brownsville. Lucio championed the original 2007 law and the 2009 amendment. The bill was referred to theSenate State Affairs Committee.
"We are so proud of the continuing leadershipin Texas which was the third of the now 32 states toenact autism insurance reform and the first to amend its law to make it even stronger,"said Judith Ursitti, Autism Speaks' director of state government affairs. "The new bill is a common sense step forward to benefit Texas children and save the state's taxpayers money."
The current Texas law requires state-regulated health plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism, including behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis, as well as speech, occupational and physical therapy. However, small businesses with under 50 employees are exempt.
Would extend autism insurance coverage to state employees
SANTA FE (March 18, 2013) -- The New Mexico Senate gave final legislative approval to a bill that would expand the state's 2009 autism insurance reform law tocover state employees. It was approved 34-0and sent to Gov. Susana Martinez.
Sponsored by Bernalillo legislators, Rep. James Smith (R) and Senator Bill O'Neill (D), the bill (HB.22)was amended in its final stages at the request of the Martinez administration todelay implementation untilJanuary 1, 2015. Martinez signaled her intent to sign the bill with the amendment.
Thecurrent law requires coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism through age 19, including up to $36,00 a year for applied behavior analysis. In addition to New Mexico, legislatures in California, Maine, Kansas and Texas areconsidering bills to expand coverage under existing autism insurance reform laws.
The New Mexico bill is the first to complete legislative action and be sent to the governor.
Dishwashers, janitors among top job fields; more than half earn under $25,000
WASHINGTON, DC (March 19, 2013) -- Americans with disabilities experience higher unemployment rates than the general population and those who are employed tend to hold low-paying jobs, work part-timeand earn less than their counterparts, according to a new study released by the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS).
Based ona newDisability Employment Tabulation, the ACS datashow that between 2008 and 2010, individuals without disabilities were about three times more likely to be employed than Americans with disabilities.
Key findings included:
- Individualswith disabilities accounted for 9.4 million, or 6.0 percent, of the nation'scivilian workforce
- The three most common occupations for men with disabilities were drivers/sales workers and truck drivers (246,000), janitors and building cleaners (217,000); and laborers and freight, stock, and material movers (171,000). For women, they were cashiers (195,000); secretaries and administrative assistants (189,000); and nursing, psychiatric and home health aides (172,000)
- More than half of all workers with a disability were concentrated in fouroccupation groups: service workers (18.2%);administrative support (15.1%), sales(10.4%) and management, business and finance (8.9%)
- Among occupations with 100,000 or more workers, dishwashers had the highest disability rate at 14.3 percent, followed by garbage and recycling collectors (12.7%), personal care aides (11.9%), and janitors and building cleaners (11.8%)
- More than half of workers with disabilities (52%) earned less than $25,000,compared with just 38 percent of workers with no disabilities; this translates into a 75 percent earnings gap between individuals with disabilities versus workers without disabilities
- 46 percent of workers with a disability worked full time, compared to 62 percent of workers without disabilities
Placekicker with autism who kicked winning field goal gets sidelined
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (March 15, 2013) -- New Jersey athletic officials have denied a waiver forAnthony Starego, ahigh school football placekicker with autism, to play an additional year, despite pleas from professional players, a university athletic director and advocates, including Autism Speaks.Starego was immortalized in an ESPN video, Kick of Hope, for his game-winning field goal last fall for Brick High School.
As reported in The Star-Ledger, the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) concluded that Starego brought "college-level skills" to the gamethat would give Brick High School "an advantageagainst other teams." The decision was unanimous.
Starego's father, Ray, said "it's all still about winning and losing.” He was considering a further appeal to the state education commissioner.
“They said, regardless of his story, they had to treat him like he was any other kid,” Starego told The Star-Ledger. “So in other words, his development meant absolutely nothing. And I think that's probably the scariest thing at all, because they ignore all of that and gave that no weight. And that's the whole point."
Peter Bell, Autism Speaks executive vice president for programs and services, told the NJSIAA that denying Starego another year of eligibility "could produce a negative impact on the remaining years of his high school career or even produce an adverse consequence on his adult life. Why risk affecting his future?"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
UCP ANNOUNCES $25,000 INNOVATION CONTEST
Challenges inventors to bring three ideas to life and help better the lives of people with disabilities
Washington, DC (January 9, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) has announced $25,000 in prize money to anyone who can create one of the three winning ideas submitted to the World Cerebral Palsy Day's “Change my World in 1 Minute” contest.
Estblished in 2012 as an international day of awareness about cerebral palsy, World CP Day is focused on change and innovation that can make a real difference for people living with disabilities. To jumpstart this change, World CP Day's “Change my World in 1 Minute” contest challenged people to submit ideas that would help improve mobility, independence, accessibility, communication or social connections for people living with cerebral palsy, offering $25,000 in prize money to who ever can bring these three ideas to life.
Solar-powered wheelchair:
A solar-powered wheelchair would enable individuals who rely on motorized wheelchairs to charge their chairs on the go with solar energy and eliminate current battery life limitations.
Fold-up motorized wheelchair:
This idea proposes developing a motorized wheelchair that could be easily disassembled to fit into a regular car or SUV, instead of a specially modified vehicle.
Documentary: Cerebral Palsy in the 21st Century:
A documentary focusing on the successes of people with cerebral palsy and work to develop role models for the millions of people living with disabilities around the world.
The “Change my world in 1 minute” contest identified these three ideas as the best of nearly 500 global submissions. Inventors from around the world are invited to join the contest and compete for a share of the $25,000 in prize money. Submissions are due on March 31, 2013, and the winners will be announced on the next World Cerebral Palsy Day: September 2, 2013. Find out more about the contest and get involved today!
“We're challenging the world to bring these three innovative ideas to life—and to help people living with disabilities become more independent, increase accessibility, and raise awareness,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “We invite everyone, including universities, engineers, companies, inventors, hackers and makers to bring their best thinking to the contest. This is a chance to use the best of humanity's gifts to change the lives of others. Let's get started!”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY RESPONDS TO FISCAL CLIFF VOTE
Washington, DC (January 2, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) issued the following statement in response to the passage by Congress of legislation to avert the so-called ‘fiscal cliff' of tax increases and spending cuts.
“We applaud Congress's action to prevent harmful tax increases and cuts to vital services and supports for millions of Americans. The deal passed by Congress protects Social Security benefits and Medicaid— but most importantly, the individuals and their families who depend on these safety net programs, and particularly those living with disabilities.
“However, we are very disappointed that the CLASS Act, which offered a framework for funding long-term services and supports, was repealed in the ‘fiscal cliff' legislation. We are hopeful that the replacement Commission that was created in its place will be successful in helping our country to address these critical issues.
“United Cerebral Palsy urges Congress and President Obama to continue to work together to ensure that the programs and services that help so many Americans with disabilities and their families are protected in our ongoing budget debates.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
Three ideas chosen to help “Change my world in 1 minute” for people living with disabilities
Washington, DC (December 10, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) has announced the winning ideas for the World Cerebral Palsy Day “Change my world in 1 minute” contest, which challenged people to submit ideas that would help improve mobility, independence, accessibility, communication or social connections for people living with cerebral palsy.
Nearly 500 ideas were submitted to the “Change my world in 1 minute” contest, and more than 5,800 people voted for the ideas they thought would make a difference in lives of people with disabilities. The World Cerebral Palsy Day Panel carefully reviewed each proposal and has selected three innovative and dynamic ideas. The next phase of the contest will enable anyone to build the three final ideas and compete for a share of the $25,000 prize money and the opportunity to see their ideas brought to life.
The winning ideas from the contest are:
Solar-powered wheelchair:
Submitted by an individual with cerebral palsy, this idea would enable individuals who rely on motorized wheelchairs to charge their chairs on the go with solar energy and eliminate current battery life limitations.
Fold-up motorized wheelchair:
This idea proposes developing a motorized wheelchair that could be easily disassembled to fit into a regular car or SUV, instead of a specially modified vehicle. An individual who relies on a motorized wheelchair but does not have an adaptive van submitted the idea, stating that getting to work each day is a challenge, and a fold-up wheelchair would “make life with CP so much easier.”
Documentary: Cerebral Palsy in the 21st Century:
This idea proposes a documentary focused on the successes of people with cerebral palsy and would work to develop role models for the millions of people living with disabilities around the world.
With the final selections made, the World Cerebral Palsy Day Panel now invites researchers, innovators and inventors to create these three products. The resulting inventions will be judged on April 19, 2013, and the winners will be eligible for a share of the $25,000 prize.
“We are thrilled that so many creative and diverse ideas were submitted to the World CP Day “Change my world in 1 minute” contest. The panel reviewed each entry carefully and the final three exemplify the innovative and groundbreaking designs we think will make a real difference in the lives of people living with cerebral palsy,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP. “UCP wishes every inventor the best of luck in their work, and we are looking forward to next step in this process and bringing these ideas to life.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
Measure fell short in Senate vote today
Washington, DC (December 4, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) issued the following statement in response to the vote in the U.S. Senate today on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The treaty was defeated by a vote of 61-38.
The CRPD is an international treaty adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2006, and signed by the United States in 2009. However, in order for the treaty to be implemented, it must be ratified by the U.S. Senate. The treaty would serve as an important link between the United States and the international disability community, and ensure that American citizens living and traveling abroad would have the same protections and access as they do in the United States. UCP and a broad coalition of advocacy groups have been working together to urge the Senate to ratify the treaty.
“United Cerebral Palsy is very disappointed that the Senate did not ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) today. The CRPD is a critical step forward for the international disability community, but also for the estimated 57 million Americans living with disabilities—it would help to increase accessibility, opportunity and independence on a global scale,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP. “We will continue to work together with our partners in the disability community to push for the ratification of the CRPD and to ensure a life without limits for people living with disabilities around the world.”
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY URGES PRESIDENT OBAMA TO MAKE DISABILITY ISSUES A PRIORITY
Washington, DC (November 7, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) issued the following statement in response to President Barack Obama winning the presidential election.
“We are pleased to have reached the end of this campaign, and congratulate President Obama. While there are many topics to be addressed in the next four years, we urge President Obama to work towards achieving real progress on issues that have an impact on Americans with disabilities. Particularly in critical areas such as accessibility, civil rights, education, Medicaid, employment and health care, there are serious concerns to be addressed— and we urge President Obama to make them a priority,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “There are more than 57 million people in this country living with a disability today. We are a strong, diverse community and we look forward to working with President Obama as we continue our efforts to ensure that people with disabilities can live their lives to the fullest.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
UCP CALLS FOR COULTER APOLOGY
Responds to pundit's insulting and inexcusable comments on Twitter
Washington, DC (October 23, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) released the following statement today from President & CEO Stephen Bennett in response to pundit Ann Coulter's offensive comments on Twitter over the last 24 hours:
"Ann Coulter's use of an outdated and insulting term for people with disabilities is outrageous and inexcusable,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP. “She should apologize publicly, and she should be ashamed of herself."
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International fundraising and fitness event raises over $700,000
More than 5,800 people vote for World CP Day ideas to change the world
Washington, DC (October 17, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) has announced the final results from the first annual World CP Day and the World CP Challenge, an international awareness and fundraising campaign for people living with cerebral palsy.
World CP Day, held on September 4, marked the beginning of a month dedicated to ideas to make the world a better place for people living with cerebral palsy. 461 ideas were submitted to the “Change my world in 1 minute” contest, which challenged people to come up with ideas that would help individuals with cerebral palsy through improved mobility, independence, accessibility, communication or social connection. Over 5,800 votes were cast, and the World Cerebral Palsy Day Panel is now reviewing the proposals. The winners will be announced in March, 2013, and researchers, innovators and inventors will be given grants to turn their ideas into reality.
World CP Day also served as the kick-off for the World CP Challenge, a month-long event to raise awareness, encourage people to exercise, and raise money to support individuals living with cerebral palsy. Throughout September, teams from around the world exercised and raised donations to help people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. A total of 6,999 people, including 2,183 in the United States, formed teams and entered their activities and fundraising efforts on the World CP Challenge website—and raised a total of $774,399 worldwide.
“The success of our first World CP Day and the World CP Challenge is an incredible achievement, and I am so proud of the efforts of all of those who participated. From innovative ideas submitted to the “Change my world in 1 minute” campaign, to the amount of donations raised, the dedication and commitment throughout the entire month of September was extraordinary,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP. “I applaud the efforts of our teams around the world, and look forward to the exciting work to be done as we continue to strive to ensure that people living with cerebral palsy can live their lives to the fullest.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
UCP: CONGRESSIONAL REPORT SHOWS NEED FOR IMMEDIATE CHANGE
Office of Compliance highlights inaccessibility of Capitol buildings
Washington, DC (October 19, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) released the following statement today in response to the Office of Compliance's Biennial Report on the 111th Congress, “Americans with Disabilities Act Inspections Relating to Public Services and Accommodations.”
The report, which is required by the Congressional Accountability Act and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), examined the accessibility of the House Office Buildings, as well as bathrooms throughout the Capitol complex. The findings show that while progress has been made in making the buildings more accessible, there are still significant problems:
· 93% of curb ramps on the sidewalks are not in compliance with ADA Accessibility Standards.
· 54% of the total exterior pathway barriers are a safety risk for people with disabilities.
· None of the bathrooms inspected met ADA standards.
“For the 57 million Americans living with disabilities today, this is more than just a report— this is stark reminder that 22 years after the passage of the ADA, the fight for basic civil rights is not over. All Americans should have the ability to access their representatives and attend and testify at hearings, but it is clear that this is not the case. We urge Congress to act immediately to correct the safety issues, and work to ensure that all of the problems are fixed,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP. “The findings in this report are very disappointing, and show how much progress is still needed to ensure that all Americans have the same rights and opportunities.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
NORTH CAROLINA ATTORNEY TAKES HELM AS NEW CHAIR
Washington, DC (October 15, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) has elected four new members of its national Board of Trustees, and has elected four leaders to serve as officers of the Board.
The Board of Trustees plays a critical role at UCP, helping to guide the organization and its efforts to educate, advocate and provide support to people with disabilities across the country. With 18 members, including four officers, the Board is a diverse and active group that works together to move UCP forward toward its goal of creating a life without limits for people living with disabilities.
Selection of Officers
Edward G. “Woody” Connette, an attorney in Charlotte, North Carolina, will lead the organization's Board of Trustees as its new Chair, replacing outgoing Chair Bruce Merlin Fried, the DC-based Managing Partner of law firm SNR Denton. Connette has long had an interest in public policy and litigation related to disabilities, health care and mental health. In his legal work, he has fought to protect the rights of people living with disabilities and challenged the living conditions and institutionalization practices in North Carolina and Tennessee. He is involved in several professional organizations and has also served on the Executive Board and as President of the National Patient Advocate Foundation. Connette's volunteer work with disability groups stretches back more than twenty years, and he played a critical role in the merger of UCP and Easter Seals affiliates in North Carolina and went on to become Board Chair for the newly created Easter Seals/ UCP North Carolina and Virginia.
“On behalf of United Cerebral Palsy, and all of our affiliates, I am delighted to welcome Woody as our new Chair for our Board of Trustees,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “Woody has been a valued part of UCP for more than two decades, and his commitment and dedication to bettering the lives of people living with disabilities is inspiring. We look forward to his leadership in the years ahead.”
“It is an immense privilege to be selected for this position with such a great organization,” said Connette. “United Cerebral Palsy is internationally recognized as a leader in the disability community, and I will do my best to help create a better day for those living with disabilities every day.”
Connette is joined by three other volunteer leaders, including:
· Ian Ridlon, who has been selected as the organization's new vice chair. Ridlon is general counsel and director of Legal Services at the Rhode Island Interlocal Risk Management Trust. Mr. Ridlon has been involved with United Cerebral Palsy on the state and national level for over 15 years. On the state level, he has been the Board Chair for several terms and has also chaired two other non-profit organizations created by the affiliate that provide independent living facilities for low income individuals with developmental disabilities.On the national level, he has previously served on the Board of Trustees and is a recipient of the 2004 Chairperson's Award. He has also served on numerous committees and was previously the chair of the nominating committee and the by-laws committee. and has served as a Board member for UCP of Rhode Island
· Mark Boles will serve as the organization's treasurer. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Baylor Institute for Rehabilitation at Frisco (Texas). With nearly 30 years experience as a healthcare executive, he has been involved with United Cerebral Palsy on the local, state, and national levels for more than 20 years, having received the Ethel Hausman Volunteer of the Year Award in 2003 and the UCP Chairman's Award in 2004.
· Pamela Talkin will serve as secretary of the Board of Trustees. Talkin was sworn in on July 16, 2001 as the tenth Marshal of the Supreme Court of the United States. Talkin is the first woman to hold the position. She was elected to UCP Board of Trustees in 2011.
New Members
These new leaders are joined by five new distinguished Trustees who were elected at UCP's international conference this past April. They include:
· Michael Burke Jr., a co-founder and principal of Thrive Office, an innovative, shared workplace community based in New York City.
· Ruth Gullerud, who retired in May as the Executive Director of UCP of West Central Wisconsin, in Eau Claire, where she has worked since 1977.
· Melvin “Chip” Hurley, an executive with Berkeley Research Group, LLC, and former chair of the board of UCP of Central Maryland.
· Linda Maguire, co-founder and consultant with Maguire Associates, a research-based consulting firm that has served educational clients around the world for the past 29 years.She is currently the vice chair of UCP MetroBoston and has received much recognition for her work with the UCP network.
· Rob White, the Chief Executive Officer of Cerebral Palsy Alliance in Sydney, Australia, who has decades of leadership experience in global civil rights movement for people with disabilities.
“We are grateful to these new officers and Trustees for agreeing to serve United Cerebral Palsy in such an important leadership role,” Bennett said. “Our Trustees are one of the main reasons that UCP is able to serve hundreds of thousands of people with disabilities each year, and we are excited to begin a new year with their leadership contributions.”
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
National Council on Disability's report highlights vulnerabilities, flaws in current system
Washington, DC (October 5, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) issued the following statement today in response to the National Council on Disability (NCD)'s new report, “Rocking the Cradle: Ensuring the Rights of Parents with Disabilities and Their Children.”
NCD's report examines the challenges faced by the more than 4 million parents living with disabilities in raising their families. The report identifies parents with disabilities as the “only distinct community of Americans who must struggle to retain custody of their children,” and that removal rates run as high as 80 percent among parents with a psychiatric or intellectual disability. The report details the hardships faced by parents struggling to keep their children, adopt children, or even accessing reproductive assistance and makes recommendations for how to both states and the federal government can address each.
Specifically, the NCD report recommends Congress pass legislation similar to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) of 1978, which was enacted to help keep American Indian children with their families, and would help to protect the rights of parents with disabilities and their families. Alternatively, the NCD suggests an amendment to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other laws relating to child welfare, custody, adopted and reproductive technologies.
“This report highlights an awful truth: parents with disabilities are facing tremendous challenges and discrimination as they try to raise their families. The situation is appalling, and action needs to be taken,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP. “We commend the National Council on Disability for this report and for their efforts to bring this unfair and unjust treatment to an end. UCP looks forward to working together with NCD and other organizations to transform our laws and ensure that the rights of all American families are protected.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Alicia Kubert Smith: 202.973.7168,akubertsmith@ucp.org
Nationwide campaign will take place in October
Washington, DC (October 1, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy today announced its participation in National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October. The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities.
The history of NDEAM traces back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with a spectrum of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
"Employers who ensure that inclusive workplace policies and practices are woven into the fabric and culture of the organization create an environment that encourages all workers — including those of us with disabilities — to work to their full capacity and contribute fully to the organization's success," said Kathy Martinez, assistant secretary of labor for disability employment policy when announcing this year's National Disability Employment Awareness Month theme, which is "A Strong Workforce is an Inclusive Workforce: What Can YOU Do?" The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) leads National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
“United Cerebral Palsy is proud to support National Disability Employment Awareness Month. It is important to break the preconceived notions that often hinder creating an inclusive workforce. Individuals with disabilities bring many contributions to the workplace and together we can help break down barriers to employment. A diverse workforce is advantageous to both the employees and the employer,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP.
Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its messages — during October andthroughout the year — by visiting the ODEP website atwww.dol.gov/odep/. Additional employment resources can be found on theUCP website, and throughout the month special events and webinars will be promoted on the UCP's TwitterandFacebookpage.
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
Obama and Romney campaigns send representatives to speak to Americans living with disabilities
Washington, DC (September 28, 2012) – More than 500 people attended the only national event for the presidential campaigns on disability issues with more than 1,000 people watching online, reported United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), one of the more than 80 sponsors of the National Forum on Disability Issues, hosted in Columbus, OH today.
The non-partisan forum featured President Barack Obama's campaign surrogate Edward M. Kennedy, Jr., a disability rights advocate and son of the late Senator Edward M. Kennedy, and former Governor Mitt Romney's campaign surrogate U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA). Also participating in the forum on behalf of U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) was Ohio State Representative Nancy Garland (D-New Albany), and Senator Brown's opponent, Ohio State Treasurer Josh Mandel.
Each participant presented the policy positions of the respective campaigns and responded to questions posed by the moderator, Frank Sesno, director of the School of Media and Public Affairs at the George Washington University. Many of the questions were submitted by the disability community, and focused on employment, health care, long-term care, education, and housing issues.
“United Cerebral Palsy is very excited to be a part of the National Forum on Disability Issues, which has helped engage the presidential campaigns on issues that are critical to the disability community. With more than 57 million Americans living with disabilities today, people with disabilities are not a ‘minority' constituency but a real and powerful voice in the electoral process,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP. “While we are disappointed that President Obama and Governor Romney were not able to participate, we applaud all of those who contributed to today's success and look forward to continuing to work together in advocating for the public policies that ensure fair and full citizenship for people with disabilities.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
Alicia Kubert Smith: 202-973-7168, akubertsmith@ucp.org
World CP Challenge to raise awareness, support for people living with CP
Washington, DC (September 4, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) celebrates the first annual World Cerebral Palsy Day today with the launch of the World Cerebral Palsy Challenge, an international awareness and fundraising campaign designed to provide critical funds in support of people living with cerebral palsy.
World CP Day marks the beginning of a month dedicated to making the world better for individuals with cerebral palsy. Through the “Change my World in 1 Minute” campaign, individuals are encouraged to submit videos, texts or audio files of approximately one minute with ideas about how to change the lives of people with cerebral palsy through improved mobility, independence, accessibility, communication or social connection. For the entire month of September, any one can log on and vote at: worldcpday.org for the ideas they think would make a real difference in people's lives. An international World Cerebral Palsy Day panel will review the most popular submissions and award grants to researchers, innovators and inventors to turn selected ideas into reality.
“We are very excited to be celebrating the first World Cerebral Palsy Day, a day which will help raise awareness and support for people living with CP, as well as make a real difference in their lives. Through the “Change My World in 1 Minute” campaign, innovative ideas and products will be realized and used to improve the lives of millions of people around the world,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of UCP.
Close to 50 nations across the globe are planning awareness activities for the day, a remarkable number for this inaugural years. For a complete list of international organizations participating in the day, go to worldcpday.com.
World CP Day also marks the launch of the World CP Challenge, a month-long campaign that encourages people to get active and support individuals living with cerebral palsy. Throughout September, more than 1,000 teams comprising close to 5,000 participants and organizations around the world will compete as teams to exercise and fundraise. Each team and participant will track their daily steps with a pedometer; however, they are not limited to just walking to participate. The Challenge website offer participants a list of 40 activities —including activities for people living with disabilities— that also can count toward their daily step total. As the team's steps are entered, their progress will be tracked as they climb their own virtual mountain representing the seven tallest peaks on the globe. The funds raised will support vital services and groundbreaking research to help people with CP.
“The World CP Challenge is a great way for people around the world to step-up, get involved, and support the approximately 57 million Americans living with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, as well as the estimated 650 million individuals worldwide. By committing to just one month of activities, anyone can help to make a lasting difference for those living with and impacted by disabilities,” Bennett said. “I challenge everyone to take part and walk, step, roll or run their way to supporting people with cerebral palsy around the world.”
Cerebral palsy is a physical disability caused by an injury to the developing brain, which usually occurs before birth. It affects movement and is a lifelong condition, but its impact varies from person to person. United Cerebral Palsy works with its nearly 100 affiliates throughout the country to educate, advocate and provide services for people living with a spectrum of disabilities, such as housing, physical therapy, assistive technology training, early intervention services, individual and family support, social and recreational programs, community living, and employment assistance.
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Michael Hill, Senior Vice President of External Affairs
United Cerebral Palsy
202-973-7144, 202-431-3513 (cell), mhill@ucp.org
Patty Dunn, Public Relations Manager
Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare
651-229-1753, 651-245-8489 (cell),Patty.Dunn@gillettechildrens.com
Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare expands network in Minnesota, beyond
Washington, DC - (August 29, 2012) – Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare (Gillette) joins United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) as its newest affiliate and the first children's hospital to join the UCP network in the organization's 64-year history, the organizations announced today. UCP's Board of Trustees voted unanimously to welcome Gillette as UCP of Minnesota during a special meeting on Tuesday, August 14, 2012. This makes UCP and its affiliate network nearly a $1 billion enterprise devoted to educating, advocating for and providing support services to people who have a spectrum of disabilities.
Gillette is internationally recognized for its work in treating children who have disabilities and complex medical conditions. Its Center for Cerebral Palsy is world renowned for its medical treatment and rehabilitation services dedicated to reducing the effects of cerebral palsy through an interdisciplinary team. The hospital was cited by the 2012 US News & World Report as one of the country's best children's hospitals in the areas of orthopedics and neurology/neurosurgery. Gillette serves approximately 4,000 children each year with CP at its main campus in St. Paul, Minnesota and at clinics throughout the state. Click here to download a fact sheet with additional information about Gillette.
“We are thrilled to welcome Gillette to the UCP family,” said Stephen Bennett, president & chief executive officer of UCP. “The partnership with Gillette marks a new approach by UCP to expand our network in new and exciting ways. Gillette's mission mirrors that of UCP, with a broad commitment to people with a spectrum of disabilities. Their reach, reputation and dedicated and accomplished team adds vast new resources to the UCP network, and we are excited for a strong partnership in the years to come.”
”As a national leader in specialty health care, Gillette is always looking to build partnerships with organizations who provide support to children who have disabilities and their families,” said Margaret Perryman, president and CEO of Gillette. “By becoming an affiliate of UCP, we will now be able to provide our patients with even more valuable resources.”
UCP is comprised of close to 90 affiliates throughout the globe that provide services such as housing, physical therapy, assistive technology training, early intervention services, individual and family support, social and recreational programs, community living, state and local referrals, employment, employment assistance and advocacy. Gillette joins UCP as the first hospital center and points to UCP's efforts to expand its reach through creative partnerships with organizations that provide excellence in service to people with disabilities.
“This is an important day for UCP,” Bennett said. “Just as parents in the 1940s founded UCP as a response to wanting better for their children, UCP is excited to announce a partnership that expands its reach to help even more people under the UCP banner.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
About Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare
Gillette is an independent, not-for-profit hospital and clinics, that is internationally recognized for its work in the diagnosis and treatment of children and young adults who have disabilities or complex medical needs. As, the nation's first hospital devoted to the treatment of children with disabilities, Gillette's mission is to help children, adults and their families improve their health, achieve greater well-being, and enjoy life. In a nationwide survey by U.S. News Media Group this year, Gillette ranked 12th in pediatric orthopedics and 39th in pediatric neurology/neurosurgery, an increase over our 2011 national rankings.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
UCP CELEBRATES 22ND ADA ANNIVERSARY
Renews call for progress for Americans living with disabilities
Washington, DC (July 26, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) issued the following statement today in recognition of the 22nd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which ensured that people living with disabilities were afforded the same access rights as every other American.
“Today we celebrate the anniversary of a great moment in our nation's history, the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, by continuing to advocate and actively push for civil rights protections and public policies that ensure fair and full citizenship for people with disabilities. The ADA is a promise that America has made to its citizens: that every man, woman and child is an equal and valued citizen,” said Stephen Bennett, UCP President & CEO. “But we still have a long way to go, particularly in areas such as health care, education and employment opportunities, to ensure that Americans living with disabilities have the support, access and tools they need to live their lives to the fullest. So while today is a day of celebration for the disability community, it should also serve as a call to action for us all.”
United Cerebral Palsy works with its nearly 100 affiliates throughout the country to provide services to people living with disabilities every day. Additionally, UCP is working to develop and support policies that will expand access to health care and education, as well as employment opportunities and technology.
Team up with UCP as it advocates for life without limitsfor all by joining the conversation on Facebook and Twitter, this week, to add your voice to the movement.
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
Washington, DC (July 16, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) issued the following response to the National Governors Association's announcement of new Chair Delaware Governor Jack Markell's initiative “A Better Bottom Line: Employing People with Disabilities.”
According to the NGA's announcement, the initiative will aim to increase employment among individuals with disabilities and focus specifically on the intersection of government, businesses and individuals seeking gainful employment. The initiative will work to develop a “blueprint” for states and businesses to help both raise awareness and outline the best policies to increase employment of people living with disabilities. Business and Congressional leaders will collaborate on this initiative and help to determine best practices and policies.
United Cerebral Palsy provides comprehensive employment-related resources and information through its nearly 100 affiliates across the country, which support employment programs, assistance to job seekers with disabilities, and work with employers to improve the recruitment and retention of persons with disabilities in the workforce.
“United Cerebral Palsy is thrilled that the National Governors Association has chosen to highlight an issue that is so critical to Americans living with disabilities. Employment is a way for these individuals to be integrated in their communities and live their lives to the fullest while providing the business community with a workforce that is eager to participate, and yet only has a 20 percent employment rate,” said Stephen Bennett, President & CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “By bringing together business and government, Governor Markell will be able to develop a blueprint for employment that both serves and benefits all involved. We look forward to this initiative's work and its tremendous potential for positive change.”
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Leading disability organization praises Supreme Court decision and implications for people living with disabilities
The Supreme Court's ruling today affirms that the Affordable Care Act is the law of the land, and will ensure that Americans with pre-existing conditions will have access to the care they need. For individuals living with disabilities, it provides many critical benefits, most notably removing annual and lifetime caps on insurance coverage and expanding minimum benefits coverage to include more services and supports. The decision also maintains the Affordable Care Act's expansion of Medicaid, enabling more Americans to have access to health care services, including individuals who need long-term care services.
“The Affordable Care Act has already made a significant difference in the lives of millions of Americans, including those living with disabilities. Today's ruling is an affirmation that all Americans, and especially those living with disabilities, should have access to the care that they need. This decision means that individuals cannot be discriminated against because of a pre-existing condition— and for the disability community, affirms the definition of equality as set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act,” said Stephen Bennett, UCP President & CEO. “Today's decision is a clear victory for Americans living with disabilities. UCP strongly supports the Affordable Care Act and will keep working to ensure its implementation eliminates disparities and guarantees equality for all Americans.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
UCP WELCOMES NEW POLITICAL STRATEGIST AND ADVOCATE Swenson assumes role as Director, Political Leadership and Strategy
Washington, DC (June 4, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), an international service provider and advocate for children and adults with a spectrum of disabilities, has appointed Will Swenson as Director, Political Leadership and Strategy, effective May 29, 2012. Swenson will report to Connie Garner, Executive Vice President of Public Policy, and Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of UCP.
Swenson joins UCP after six years in the office of New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, where he played a key role in Mayors Against Illegal Guns, a bipartisan coalition of more than 650 mayors across the country dedicated to keeping guns out of the hands of criminals. Working with mayors, law enforcement, gun violence survivors and family members, the coalition has built a strong and effective new grassroots force in the gun violence prevention movement. A graduate of the University of Chicago and the London School of Economics, Swenson brings considerable experience and insight to UCP and its growing public policy team.
“I am very pleased to welcome Will to United Cerebral Palsy and I look forward to working with him to further develop our public policy and strategic initiatives,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of UCP. “Will's expertise as a grassroots organizer will help to strengthen UCP's voice and role as a national advocate for people living with disabilities. His work in developing Mayor Bloomberg's coalition into a national force for change was outstanding, and we are excited for Will to apply his talents here at UCP.”
Swenson will work closely with UCP's public policy team to help build consensus and momentum among policymakers, advocates and the disability community to achieve full citizenship for Americans living with disabilities.
“It is my pleasure to welcome Will Swenson to UCP. He is a great addition to our team and will help to strengthen our efforts to ensure that people living with disabilities have a voice in the critical public policy decisions that shape their lives,” said Connie Garner, Executive Vice President of Public Policy. “Will's expertise and experience will help to move UCP forward in its mission to help make this country a place where public policy always reflects the priorities of people living with disabilities.”
“UCP is recognized as a leader in the disability community, and I am proud to be joining such a strong and dedicated team,” said Swenson. “UCP, together with their network of affiliates and partners, has helped shape the policies that make a difference in the lives of people living with disabilities and their families for over sixty years, and I look forward to continuing UCP's work in new and innovative ways.”
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards, UCP: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
Lara Schwartz, AAPD: 202-521-4309, lschwartz@aapd.com
The Case for Inclusion should be used a tool to determine how to build state support and service systems that work forAmericans with intellectual and development disabilities
Washington, DC (May 23, 2012) – While progress has been made and there is more quality assurance of services provided, some states are failing to adequately serve Americans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD), according to The Case for Inclusion 2012, a new Medicaid report released today. United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) and the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) are calling on advocates to use The Case for Inclusion as a tool to determine how to build state support and service systems that work for people. The findings for 2012 reveal that:
The 2012 report tracks the progress of community living standards, and it shows that the states with the best services and supports for Americans living with disabilities are Arizona, Michigan and California. The lowest performing states are Arkansas, Texas and Mississippi, which have remained at the bottom of the rankings since The Case for Inclusion was first published in 2006.
While many states appear to be financially stable, the coming intersection of an aging population, people living with disabilities, and limited financial resources, will have a significant impact on the country's entitlement programs.
The report examines data and outcomes for all 50 states and the District of Columbia (DC), ranking each on a set of key indicators, including how people with disabilities live and participate in their communities, if they are satisfied with their lives, and how easily the services and supports they need are accessed. By taking these factors into account, the findings develop a comprehensive analysis of each state's progress or failures in providing critical services to individuals living with disabilities.
Since 2006, these rankings enable families, advocates, the media and policymakers to fully understand each state's progress or lack of improvement, and help to protect successful efforts against unwise funding cuts, as well as guide future reforms to promote inclusion and enhance the quality of life for these, and ultimately all, Americans.
“Each year, UCP publishes The Case for Inclusion as part of its continuing efforts to advocate for civil rights protections and public policies that provide support for individuals living with disabilities, ensuring fair and full citizenship for all Americans,” said UCP President & CEO, Stephen Bennett. “The Case for Inclusion clearly identifies the states that are successful in providing the supports and services that people living with disabilities need, as well as states that are struggling. I urge all states and advocates to utilize The Case for Inclusion as a tool to strengthen their efforts, and to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities.”
“It is critical that states honor their obligations to people with disabilities by providing comprehensive and high-quality services through their Medicaid programs. That is why people with disabilities and our allies are fighting to preserve and improve Medicaid at the state andfederal levels. The Case for Inclusion makes clear that some states are falling short and provides a roadmap for advocacy. AAPD encourages our community, members, and supporters to use this tool in our continued efforts to preserve the vital services and supports that enable eight million people with disabilities to live the lives we deserve,” said AAPD President and CEO Mark Perriello.
Online features, reports and data:
The 2012 report and data from all previous reports is available on UCP's website using a robust new web module and design at ucp.org/public-policy/the-case-for-inclusion. Users can:
- Compare state & national data
- View state scorecards
- Interact with the ranking map
- See highlights of the 2012 report, top and bottom 10 states, most improved states and those with biggest drops, and facts about the best performing states
- Advocatefor areas needing improvement in states, and promote achievements that maintain high quality outcomes, like eliminating waiting lists and closing large institutions
- Download the full 2012 report and previous reports
Users can pull individual state outcomes and measures, track each state's performance over time, and compare states among one another and to the US average. The Case for Inclusion data, tables and graphs are exportable and printable as needed for personal and professional use.
For further detail about the report itself, there will be a press briefing at 1:00 p.m. ET (10:00 a.m. PT). Author Tarren Bragdon will provide insight into the rankings and data, which advocacy groups and individuals can use to raise awareness for key outcomes for people with disabilities.
- Toll-free: 1-888-450-5996
- Participant passcode: 786597
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
About the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), the country's largest cross-disability membership association, organizes the disability community to be a powerful force for change – politically, economically, and socially. AAPD was founded in 1995 to help unite the diverse community of people with disabilities, including their family, friends and supporters, and to be a national voice for change in implementing the goals of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). To learn more, visit the AAPD Web site: www.aapd.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org
Washington, DC (May 23, 2012) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) released The Case for Inclusion today, an annual report that tracks the progress of community living standards for Americans living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD), and there will be a press briefing at 1:00 p.m. ET (10:00 a.m. PT). Author Tarren Bragdon will provide insight into the rankings and data, which advocacy groups and individuals can use to raise awareness for key outcomes for people with disabilities.
- Toll-free: 1-888-450-5996
- Participant passcode: 786597
The findings for 2012 reveal that:
The 2012 report shows that the states with the best services and supports for Americans living with disabilities are Arizona, Michigan and California. The lowest performing states are Arkansas, Texas and Mississippi, which have remained at the bottom of the rankings since The Case for Inclusion was first published in 2006.
While many states appear to be financially stable, the coming intersection of an aging population, people living with disabilities, and limited financial resources will have a significant impact on the country.
The report examines data and outcomes for all 50 states and the District of Columbia (DC), ranking each on a set of key indicators, including how people with disabilities live and participate in their communities, if they are satisfied with their lives, and how easily the services and supports they need are accessed. By taking these factors into account, UCP is able to develop a comprehensive analysis of each state's progress or failures in providing critical services to individuals living with disabilities.
Since 2006, these rankings enable families, advocates, the media and policymakers to fully understand each state's progress or lack of improvement, and help to protect successful efforts against unwise funding cuts, as well as guide future reforms to promote inclusion and enhance the quality of life for these, and ultimately all, Americans.
“Each year, UCP publishes The Case for Inclusion as part of its continuing efforts to advocate for civil rights protections and public policies that provide support for individuals living with disabilities, ensuring fair and full citizenship for all Americans,” said UCP President & CEO, Stephen Bennett. “The Case for Inclusion clearly identifies the states that are successful in providing the supports and services that people living with disabilities need, as well as states that are struggling. I urge all states and advocates to utilize The Case for Inclusion as a tool to strengthen their efforts, and to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities.”
New online features, reports and data:
The 2012 report, in addition to data from all previous reports since 2006, is available on UCP's website using a robust new web module and design at ucp.org/public-policy/the-case-for-inclusion. Users can:
- Compare state & national data
- View state scorecards
- Interact with the ranking map
- See highlights of the 2012 report, top and bottom 10 states, most improved states and those with biggest drops, and facts about the best performing states
- Advocatefor areas needing improvement in states, and promote achievements that maintain high quality outcomes, like eliminating waiting lists and closing large institutions
- Download the full 2012 report and previous reports
Users can pull individual state outcomes and measures, track each state's performance over time, and compare states among one another and to the US average. The Case for Inclusion data, tables and graphs are exportable and printable as needed for personal and professional use.
Importance, methodology and advocacy:
In the 1999 case Olmstead v. L.C., the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that institutionalizing individuals living with disabilities that can benefit from, and want to live in the community, was discrimination. The Case for Inclusion was developed in response to this decision, and ranks how well each state's Medicaid programs serve Americans with ID/DD. These individuals, including the aging, deserve the same freedoms and quality of life as all Americans.
In rankings, each state and DC is analyzed and ranked based on five key outcome areas: promoting independence, tracking quality and safety, keeping families together, promoting productivity, and reaching those in need.
Significant takeaways from the 2012 ranking:
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About United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.
Read USA.gov's blog written by the Associate Commissioner for Social Security's Office of Employment Support Programs, Bob Williams. Associate Commissioner Williams discusses the Ticket to Work program, Social Security's free and voluntary program for people who receive disability benefits. Learn about how the program helps beneficiaries find and keep work to help them achieve more financial independence.
Older people, particularly those with mobility and health issues, and people with disabilities should be prepared in case of a natural or manmade disaster. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) explains how to prepare a disaster emergency kit and how to take other steps to make sure you are safe.Learn more about preparedness fromMississippi's Emergency Management Agencyand FEMA.
A federal judge has ruled thatSupervalu, Inc., which owns the Jewel-Osco food chain, did not comply with the disability discrimination lawsuit settlement with theU.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC). The EEOC charged Supervalu in 2009 with discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act for firing employees at the end of their disability leaves of absence. The settlement required the grocery to send job offers to employees on disability leave when they were ready to return to work.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedOutback Steakhouse with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). A new manager at Outback's Phoenix Metrocenter location in AZ allegedly fired an employer, who was successful on the job, because of his traumatic brain injury. Outback has agreed to train its staff on the ADA.
Letter from the National Council on Disability (NCD) to the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on the proposed changes to the Companionship Exemptionto overtime compensation under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The NCD urges OMB to require the U.S. Department of Labor to do more research and discussion into the proposed changes to the Companionship Exemption to meet the needs of service providers and the disability and aging communities.
The ADA National Network's next free webinar titled “High Rise Evacuation for People with Disabilities” will be held on April 10, 2013 from 2 - 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time. You'll hear fromrepresentatives frombuilding code, evacuation chair development and fire agencies abouthow differenttechnologies are being used to improve the evacuation of people with disabilities from high rise buildings. Register online.
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has reached a cooperative settlement agreement with the Arapahoe, CO County Sheriff's Office under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A similar agreement was also reached with the city of Englewood. DOJ had received complaints by individuals who are deaf that police officers in Englewood and the Arapahoe Sheriff's Office were not providing sign language interpreters for people who are deaf.
The Federal Communications Commission will hold the next EAAC meeting on June 21, 2013 from 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time in Washington, DC. The EAAC decides on the most effective and efficient technologies and ways to give individuals with disabilities access to Next Generation 911 emergency services.
A new report by the National Council on Disabilityreviews the accessibility of U.S.-funded foreign assistance programs that are meant to improve international relations and the quality of life in other countries. The report also makes recommendations on programs run by the United States Agency for International Development and the U.S. Departments of State and Defense to ensure they are providing equal access to people with disabilities.
A new study has foundthat people with mobility impairments have reduced access to subspecialty medical care. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, medical practitioners are required to provide all patients "full and equal access to their health care services and facilities." Researchers called practices to make appointments for a fictional patient who was obese, partially paralyzed and used a wheelchair. Many practices were inaccessible to a patient in a wheelchair.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Serviceshas announced that more than 6.3 million people with Medicare have saved over $6.1 million on prescription drugs under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). As the ACA's third anniversary approaches, more people with Medicare are reaping the cost benefits of the health care law. The ACA's "donut hole" reduces the cost of Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D).
The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) annually offers blind college students inthe United States and Puerto Ricothe opportunity to win one of 30 national scholarships worth from $3,000 to $12,000. Winners will receive assistance to attend the 2013 NFB Annual Convention in Orlando, FL, providing an opportunity for networking with active blind persons in many different professions and occupations.Application deadline is March 31, 2013.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that the number of children in the United States with autism spectrum disorder has increased dramatically since 2007. As of 2012, 1 in 50 children between the ages of 6 and 17 has some form of autism, compared with 1 in 88 only 5 years earlier. The main reason for the higher numbers of children reported with autism appears to be due to better diagnoses.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has sued Toys "R" Us, Inc. for alleged disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A woman who is deaf applied for a job at the toy retailer's store in Columbia, MD. She was denied a sign language interpreter and the store refused to hire her despite her qualifications and ability to do the job, with or without a reasonable accommodation.
The National Council on Disability(NCD) has released a new reportfor state and federal policymakersoutlining ways to guide the design andimplementation of managed care reforms without harming Americans with disabilities. Today, over two-thirds of the 70 million Medicaid beneficiaries receive some of their services through a managed care plan. The number of people with disabilities using the services will increase as the Affordable Care Act expands Medicaid eligibility next year.
Policy and Advocacy are scary words for Trainees; in fact, it's an area that many trainees might choose to avoid. Luckily for me, my LEND places great emphasis on this area, leaving me to grapple with what my own goals might be for policy and advocacy development. As any good behaviorist, I turned to the data.
To mark the third anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has released a new report on preventive services. The data finds that about 71 million Americans received coverage for at least one free preventive health care service during 2011-2012 because of the ACA. People who receive Medicare and seniorsare also benefiting fromother aspects of theACA, such as savings on prescription drug costs.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) National Network is holding an audio conference titled "Extracurricular Athletic Opportunities for Students with Disabilities: Understanding the Issues" on April 16, 2013 from 2 - 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The Inclusive Fitness Coalitionis co-hosting this event underthe U.S. Department of Education'sguidance. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 states thatpublic elementary and secondary schools must provide extracurricular athletic opportunities for students with disabilities. Register online.
TheRehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America's (RESNA) annual conference will be held June 20 - 24, 2013 in Bellevue, WA. RESNA 2013 will have educational sessions, scientific paper presentations, three plenary sessions with internationally-recognized speakers and a large exhibit hall. The conference will overlap with the 2013 International Conference on Rehabilitation Robotics.Register online.
The Federal Communications Commission will host a free Senior Digital Literacy Day seminar, "How the Internet Can Benefit Older Americans," on April 24, 2013 from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in Washington, D.C. Seniors and caregivers are invited to attend and learn how high speed Internet services can helpaging Americans.Presentations willdiscusssafe and secure use of the Internet. Pre-registrationby phone(call Susan Fisenne at 202-418-2502) or emailis encouraged.
A jury has voted in favor of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in a disability discrimination lawsuit against Western Trading Company, Inc. The Denver, CO-based company violated the Americans with Disabilities Act when it allegedly fired an employee because of his epilepsy. The jury foundthat the company failed to provide reasonable accommodations for the employee and fired him, despite having medical releases from the employee's doctor.
The U.S. Access Board'sMedical Diagnostic Equipment Accessibility Standards Advisory Committee will meet March 26-27, 2013 in Washington, D.C. The Board is developing standards for medical diagnostic equipment, including examination tables and chairs, weight scales, radiological equipment and mammography equipment, under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. These standards willaddressaccess to and use of this equipment by people with disabilities.The meeting is open to the public.
March 13 - April 15 marks Deaf History Month,which helps to bringawareness and appreciation of deaf culture to the general public. Organizations and federal agencies are honoring this month through articles exploring the history of deaf culture and providing information onservices to assist people who are deaf. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers videos in American Sign Language (ASL)on YouTube to help educate individuals who are deaf about their fair housing rights, housing services and loan programs.