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In this issue:

About the DD Quarterly

Copyright © 2009, Content may be reprinted upon request.

ODDC: Advocating for Change for Over 30 Years

The Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (ODDC) has made an impact on the disability community at the national and state levels for over 30 years. ODDC is part of a national network of state councils established by the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act) and managed by the U.S. Administration on Developmental Disabilities. The DD Act funds 55 state and territorial councils on developmental disabilities to establish priorities and engage in advocacy, capacity building and systemic change activities. Representatives from ODDC have a history of helping shape federal legislation and national disability initiatives. Many of Ohio's major programs and policies focusing on improving the lives of people with disabilities and their families are linked directly to advocacy activities of ODDC.

Membership

ODDC consists of 18 volunteer members who are people with developmental disabilities or family members appointed by the governor for two three-year terms and 12 members representing ODDC: Advocating for Change for Over 30 Years relevant state agencies and nonprofit organizations and agencies that provide services to people with developmental disabilities. Sixty percent of the members are people with disabilities or family members, assuring that they are directing Council's activities. Carolyn Knight, interim director of ODDC, states of the current membership, "I am impressed with the enthusiasm and energy this group of members brings to the table. There is a mix of new and experienced members who are willing to volunteer countless hours to improve the lives of Ohioans with disabilities and their families. I am sure this group of advocates will continue Ohio's tradition of excellence."

Committees and Projects

ODDC uses a committee structure to conduct business activities. Eight committees are established to fulfill ODDC's mission to create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life. Each committee is responsible for monitoring relevant issues and for establishing ODDC priorities. ODDC professional staff provide support to the committee chairs.

ODDC funds and administers grant projects to address priorities identified by committees. The projects funded in 2008 involved a variety of issues including health, employment, housing, transportation, education, early intervention, child care and recreation.

For more information, visit the ODDC Web site.

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General Assembly Approves Meeting Options

ODDC members now have an option to join in committee and business meetings, grant review panels and other Council work groups by telephone or interactive video teleconference. House Bill 129, signed by the Governor on January 7, 2009, authorizes a pilot program that allows ODDC members to participate in meetings and vote via teleconference and be considered present when establishing a quorum.

Current and former Council members met with legislators over the past 24 months to educate and inform policymakers about the value of this pilot project. Glenda Pope, former ODDC member, in her proponent testimony to the House Judiciary Committee said, "Because of my mobility challenges, I was often faced with the tough decision of whether to travel to Columbus during the harsh winter months or stay home. Medical complications resulting from my disability have sometimes restricted me to a hospital bed or to my home." Pope also articulated that House Bill 129 would liberate people with disabilities and family members of people with disabilities by giving them an opportunity to participate in activities even though they are not physically at the meeting.

According to Carolyn Knight, interim executive director at ODDC, "Our members face barriers to participation that many other organizations do not experience. Through no fault of their own, a member of Council may miss a meeting because a support professional or transportation service provider has cancelled." Knight believes House Bill 129 will help members overcome these barriers to participation and will ultimately improve the efficacy of ODDC.

Other entities specifically included in HB 129 are the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council, the Governor's Council on People with Disabilities and the STAR Community Justice Center.

House Bill 129 requires ODDC to:

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Chairman's Message

by Peter Keiser, Chairman of ODDC

Recently the Governor appointed me as Chair of ODDC and it is an honor to receive this designation. I have been a member of ODDC since 1989, appointed first as a self advocate and then as a representative from the Cincinnati University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities.

I was born with cerebral palsy at a time when parents were advised to place their child with a disability in an institution. Fortunately my parents did not take that advice, but there were few services for children with disabilities. My mother joined with other parents to start United Cerebral Palsy of Cincinnati. She was a "professional volunteer" advocating for people with disabilities on the local, state and national levels. Growing up in that environment led me to the field of social work. I am a licensed independent social worker and following my mother's example, I serve on numerous boards and committees that address issues that are important to people with disabilities.

When I am on boards or committees, I always review the organization's mission statement because the mission statement is the foundation that guides the actions and deliberations of the board or committee. ODDC's mission statement is clearly stated:

To create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life.

How do we as a council accomplish this mission? First, it is essential that ODDC's mission statement and state plan, which is the blueprint for systematic change, capacity building, and advocacy activities, are aligned. Second, ODDC's grant funded projects must create change to assure that people with developmental disabilities and their families are included in community life. Finally, ODDC should provide a forum to discuss public policy issues affecting Ohio's children and adults with disabilities. An atmosphere must be created where stakeholders in the disability community share the problems and solutions to improve independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities.

I look forward to chairing this Council and working with Carolyn Knight, interim executive director, Council members, and Council staff. Together, we can build on ODDC's 30 years of experience and successes to create change and improve the lives of Ohioans with disabilities.

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ODDC Receives Positive Approval Rating

by Amy Hess and Paula Rabidoux, Nisonger Center, UCEDD

People with disabilities, family members and other stakeholders in Ohio are satisfied with the activities and outcomes of ODDC, according to the results of a consumer and stakeholder satisfaction survey.

The Nisonger Center, University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, implemented the satisfaction survey for ODDC. The survey, required by the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000, evaluated consumer satisfaction with Council supported or conducted activities and was designed to assess effectiveness and to provide information to plan for systems change.

Based on the state's population, Ohio was required to complete 100 surveys: 85 from individuals with developmental disabilities and 15 from stakeholders. Responses were gathered from paper and email surveys, phone interviews and focus groups.

One hundred percent of those surveyed strongly agreed or agreed that they are satisfied with project activities. Ninety-seven percent reported that their lives are improved in the areas of respect, choice and community involvement as a result of their participation in ODDC project activities. "We have gained so much knowledge that will empower us," wrote one respondent. Another wrote, "I have learned a lot about being independent and taking care of myself."

The survey included a section to provide written responses to the question, "What has been helpful or not helpful about the project activity?" Written responses from consumers reflected how participation in ODDC project activities improved their access to resources and increased their advocacy skills. For example, a sibling wrote, "The quality of my life has increased substantially since I attended my first Ohio Adult Sibs Conference. I am a better advocate for my brother."

Survey respondents also provided suggestions for changes that would improve ODDC grants and activities, such as assuring projects are multicultural and hosting certain activities on a regular basis.

Overall, the survey results suggest a high level of satisfaction with ODDC activities across the state. The consumer and stakeholder satisfaction survey will be completed annually to inform ODDC about satisfaction of its constituencies and to help guide program development.

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ODDC Announces New Grant Projects for 2009

ODDC is funding 23 continuation grants and three new grant projects during the 2009 calendar year. The following is an overview about each new grant.

Transition $100,000 - The transition project, awarded to Easter Seals Work Resource Center in Cincinnati, targets inner city youths and seeks to implement a family-centered transition planning process that leads to vocational or post-secondary education or employment.

Health Care $125,000 - The Every Healthy Person Initiative Grant was awarded to Hard- Wired for Health, Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland to improve the health and health care of individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

Legislative Day Coordinator $25,000 - This grant was awarded to Carmen Shelton in conjunction with the Nisonger Center to organize advocates with developmental disabilities and their family members to educate policymakers about select public policy issues.

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SOLIDARITY's 10th Anniversary

Ohio's largest conference planned by and for people with disabilities will take place in Columbus, Ohio April 14-16, 2009. Solidarity is the place to be for current information on legislation, advocacy efforts, and a wide variety of practical and topical workshops that seek to improve daily life for people with all types of disabilities.

Solidarity first took place in 1991 after a core group of advocates from around the state organized as Solidarity Ohio. In 1993, the group became the Disability Network of Ohio-Solidarity, Inc. (DNOS), and continues to host the conference every two years.

"I was there with people like Jerry Snyder, Ken Campbell, Frank Gattas and Ken Morlock," said Frank Anderson, chair of DNOS, and government relations director for the Buckeye Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA). "They asked what they could do to help people with disabilities throughout the state and they decided on having a conference. The impact it has had in Ohio has been phenomenal. People go away from Solidarity with a wealth of information and take it back to their communities and make those places better, too."

Throughout the years, the conference has become more diverse in its scope, attracting adults with all types of disabilities. Attendees began making legislative visits during the conference four years ago in an effort to influence public policy, and will again visit the Ohio Statehouse during this year's conference to speak with elected officials.

The '09 conference will feature more than 30 workshops, a health fair, technology exhibits, and keynote addresses by Joyce Bender, host of the international radio talk show "Disability Matters" and Matt Roloff, star of The Learning Channel's "Little People, Big World." Actor Chris Burke and band members Joe and John DeMasi will provide evening entertainment.

The benefits of Solidarity are numerous — from developing new friendships with people of similar disability-related backgrounds, to strengthening self-advocacy skills, and learning from experts in a variety of fields such as Social Security, housing, employment, legal rights awareness and much more.

"I attribute a lot of my success and leadership skills to the empowering and informative workshops and speakers at Solidarity conferences. It is one of the best tools for people with disabilities to do networking, and become employed, tax-paying citizens and leaders of the communities they live in," said Dayton resident Shari Cooper, Ms. Wheelchair Ohio 2008.

Regenia Huffman, of the Medina County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (MRDD), is a Solidarity planner. "When this conference is held every two years and 600 or more individuals with disabilities come together from all over Ohio, you no longer feel like a minority. You realize the strength in numbers and how you can make a difference," she said.

Major Solidarity funders include the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission, ODDC, Buckeye Chapter of PVA, Ohio Legal Rights Service and the Ohio Department of MRDD. Many corporations and disability groups sponsor at various levels to provide scholarships to people with disabilities.

Register Today

For a registration packet, visit the Solidarity Web site or call toll-free (866) 966-2028.

Registration fee is $175. Registration fee for a person with a disability and an assistant is $225. Fees cover all conference meals and activities.

Solidarity is offering a limited number of scholarships. To request a scholarship, register by March 1.

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Advocacy in Northeast Ohio Grows by LEAPs and Bounds

by Paul Jarvis, ODDC

Editor's Note: This is the third in a series of articles about ODDC's Centers for Public Policy. Previous articles featured the Centers in Cincinnati and Southeast Ohio.

Linking Employment, Abilities and Potential (LEAP), a Center for Independent Living (CIL), is an ODDC Center for Public Policy located in Cleveland and is in its second year as a public policy grassroots development grantee. Like most CILs, LEAP brings a tremendous amount of knowledge to the community and to policymakers on issues such as housing, employment and transportation. According to Deborah Nebel, Director of Public Policy for LEAP, these three issues are inseparable and LEAP's growing list of advocacy activities continues to promote change. The following are examples of LEAP's accomplishments in 2008.

Pushed for Medicaid Buy-In

When the Medicaid Buy-In program appeared in trouble of being implemented, LEAP advocates sprung into action, continuing to communicate the importance of the program with members of the Governor's Office and other public policymakers. After the program began, LEAP continued to provide training on this important employment incentive for workers with disabilities.

Marched for Passage of the ADA Amendments Act

At the National Council on Independent Living Conference held in Washington, D.C., LEAP staff and advocates participated in the march to support the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act and met with Senator George Voinovich, who signed on as a co-sponsor of the bill.

Advocated for Better Public Transportation

With the support of LEAP, advocates at the state level were able to participate and testify during regional meetings conducted by the Ohio Department of Transportation. The goal of the meetings was to seek public input on developing a sustainable, efficient and affordable public transportation system in Ohio.

Developed Training and Resources

LEAP's Assistive Technology Center developed classes on the use of the computer in advocacy, including assisting people in getting free email accounts and learning where to access computers in the community. LEAP's public policy page on its website continues to provide advocates with up-to-the-minute updates and action alerts on state and federal issues.

Recognized Nationally

LEAP's advocacy work has not gone unnoticed. In October, LEAP was recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor as one of eight winners of the New Freedom Initiative Award for their outstanding efforts to improve employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The New Freedom Initiative is a government-wide effort to accelerate the full inclusion of people with disabilities into mainstream American life. While in Washington D.C. to receive their award, LEAP advocates wasted no time, using the opportunity to meet with U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown and Voinovich and other members of Congress to discuss the issues facing individuals with disabilities that need their attention in the next Congress.

Want to get involved?

Consider joining a regional Center for Public Policy. Learn more by contacting:

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Individual and Family Involvement Leads to Better Programs

People with disabilities and their families in Sandusky County are involved in important decision making and other influential roles at the Sandusky County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (SCBMRDD). Changes to the board's policies and procedures now assure that individual and family voices are heard when deciding the design, development, implementation and evaluation of services provided by SCBMRDD.

The SCBMRDD distributed a self-assessment tool, the Family Friendly Check List, to people with disabilities, their families and staff members. The Family Friendly Check List, developed by an ODDC grantee, the Family Support Council, assesses an organization's family friendly approaches. Using the survey results, SCBMRDD made immediate procedural changes assuring that people with disabilities and family members are actively involved in board activities. The leadership team at SCBMRDD also developed a series of recommendations, based on survey outcomes, to increase family involvement and to make the agency more family friendly and incorporated them into the board's strategic plan.

Cheryl Cotter, SCBMRDD superintendent, indicated that the information gained from the check lists was very helpful in making staff more sensitive to including families. She said, "Our whole philosophy has changed and now, before we do anything, we always ask, 'how can we involve more families?' The check lists were very helpful and raised our awareness of the need to involve families and how to involve families."

There are many strategies an organization can use to increase opportunities for people with disabilities and their families to be involved.

The Family Friendly Check List offers a way to discover examples and solutions, many that will not require additional funds. Instead, a commitment from the administration and staff to value input from people with disabilities and their families is the investment. According to Cotter, "The changes made at SCBMRDD did not cost the program anything, but we have gained so much by involving and listening to people with disabilities and their families — our program is better because of their involvement."

How Sandusky County Board of MRDD Increased Individual and Family Involvement

Read the SCBMRDD check list results: Sandusky County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities - Family Friendly Survey (PDF file).

Check Lists Available

Copies of the Check Lists are available by contacting Tom Hemmert at (800) 282-9181 or themmert@olrs.state.oh.us. PDF copies of the check lists are on OLRS' website: Family Friendly Check List - Family Version (PDF file)

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Meet ODDC's New Members

Renee Wood

Renee Wood has worked in systems advocacy for the last ten years. She currently is an accessibility consultant for the Diocese of Toledo and prior to that, she was employed at The Ability Center of Toledo.

Wood participates in several community committees where she advocates for and increases the awareness of the concerns of people with disabilities.

"I am primarily interested in ensuring that people with disabilities live, learn, work and play in the least restrictive community settings," said Wood.

Fawna McWilliams

Fawna McWilliams is an instructor and academic advisor at two community colleges where she teaches communications courses. She is also pursuing a doctorate degree in educational leadership, with an emphasis in research in post-secondary education success for individuals with disabilities.

"Being born with significant visual impairments taught me to be resourceful and to advocate for myself," said McWilliams. These skills have helped her advocate for her son who has multiple developmental disabilities and three other children she and her husband adopted.

McWilliams' disability interest areas include promoting equality, human rights and independence of individuals with disabilities. McWilliams states that she enjoys her advocacy work and that "doing something you are passionate about is the key to true fulfillment."

Helen Dunlap

Helen Dunlap is serving on ODDC as a parent representative of a child with a disability. She is a city councilwoman for Broadview Heights.

Dunlap is involved in advocacy activities on the state and local levels. Her success as a parent advocate for her son who has a traumatic brain injury is recognized by other families who seek her advice when advocating for improved educational services for their children.

One of Dunlap's disability priorities is to assure that first responders from police and fire departments know about people with disabilities. First responders, according to Dunlap, "must be prepared, in emergency situations, to understand needs presented by people with disabilities, especially those in the armed services returning from war with traumatic brain injuries."

G. Marty Martinek

G. Marty Martinek is a well know advocate throughout the state of Ohio. He served two terms on the Governor's Council for People with Disabilities and 18 years on the local and state Consumer Advisory Council for the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission. In addition, he participates on several local and state committees and initiatives on transportation, transition from nursing homes to community settings and other issues important to people with disabilities.

Martinek is interested in ODDC's grant programs, especially those that "provide funds that help people with disabilities to better their life through employment, living in the community and recreational opportunities."

Martinek is currently working part-time at the Recycling Division of Mahoning County.

Mark D. Greenblatt

Mark D. Greenblatt is serving on ODDC as a parent representative of a child with a disability. He is the father of a two-year old son who was a micro-preemie and has a hearing loss and an eye disorder.

Greenblatt is a financial representative whose practice focuses on serving families who have children with disabilities.

Greenblatt is most interested in ODDC's children's issues, public policy and leadership development committees.

Tanya Benore

Tanya Benore is currently employed at the Quest program in Sylvania and she has worked at Sunshine Inc. where she assisted residents with activities.

Benore is a graduate of the Partners in Policymaking program, is involved with People First of Greater Toledo and is on the Building Allies Committee.

Benore is most interested in disability issues affecting people who have a dual diagnosis.

Emily Schmidlin

Emily Schmidlin is a senior at Kent State University, majoring in sociology.

During breaks in her academic schedule, Schmidlin enjoys traveling. She has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe.

Schmidlin is interested in all disability issues but her special interest is inclusion for people with disabilities in school, community and employment.

"I have cerebral palsy, and strive to see the challenges that my disability brings as opportunities to triumph," said Schmidlin.

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Legislative Event and Rally

The Voice of One — The Power of Many

You are invited to join Ohio's Disability Community to present a unified voice while rallying together for change.

Date: March 31 - April 1, 2009

Location: Hyatt on Capital Square, Columbus, Ohio and the Ohio Statehouse Lawn

Activities: All-day conference on March 31 including an awards luncheon, guest speakers, breakout sessions and an evening reception for legislators. A legislative rally on the Statehouse Lawn and individual legislative visits are planned for April 1.

Registration: Contact The Arc of Ohio at (800) 875-2723 or by email at arcohio@rrohio.com. For more information about the event, visit The Arc's website.

Sponsors: The Arc of Ohio, ODDC, Ohio Legal Rights Service and many other disability organizations in Ohio.

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Tax Benefits and Credits for Qualifying Taxpayers with Disabilities

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued a fact sheet on tax tips for qualifying taxpayers with disabilities. Examples of tax credit and other benefits include:

For more information, call the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 or visit the IRS website.

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Cincinnati UCEDD Supports Leadership Network

by Brady Sellet, Self-Advocacy Coordinator for the Outreach Program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD)

The Advocacy Leadership Network of Hamilton County is influencing policy in Southwestern Ohio and is a model for advocacy groups across the country. Members from this group participate on boards and panels that address housing, transportation and other critical issues important to people with disabilities.

The Network was established when Cheryl Phipps, superintendent of the Hamilton County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (HCBMRDD),coordinated a meeting of advocates and directors from local agencies in March, 2007. Phipps' goal was to "take advocacy to the next level in Hamilton County." Phipps provides support for the group while I, as the Self-Advocacy Coordinator for the Outreach Program at the Cincinnati UCEDD, support self-advocates to participate effectively in state and local systems change efforts. The following are examples of the group's recent leadership activities.

Surveys and Focus Groups

Members of the Advocacy Leadership Network implemented a peer to peer survey, called the Blue Ribbon Project, designed to assess customer satisfaction with service facilitators at the HCBMRDD. Through this project, self-advocates learned to interact professionally with their peers and bring their voices forward.

Members also hosted focus groups to gather input and listen to the concerns of people who access services from the HCBMRDD. Focus group feedback was used to help shape the board's five-year plan.

Community Projects

Diana Mairose and I are members of the "Home Think Tank" which promotes affordable and accessible housing in Hamilton County. We provide input to builders, landlords, housing authority leaders, disability residential providers and representatives from the Area Agency on Aging when they meet to expand housing options in Hamilton County.

Training

Network members, Robert Shuemak and Mairose, are part of the Queen City Metro Coach Operator's training program. Based on their years of experience as regular Metro riders, they provide tips on making the ride experience easier and less intimidating for individuals with disabilities.

The advocates, through The Arc Hamilton County, started a new committee, Advocacy in Media (AIM), to train members of the media about the importance of People First Language. Network member Marvin Moss is the leader of this campaign.

The Advocacy Leadership Network is also developing a national reputation, providing trainings on their successful advocacy model and teaching advocacy and leadership skills. Group members presented at the Self Advocates Becoming Empowered conference in Indianapolis, Indiana and the Building a Better Tomorrow conference in Kansas City, Missouri. In Ohio, they have presented at many conferences and universities.

New Leaders

The HCBMRDD and Cincinnati UCEDD will continue to support the Advocacy Leadership Network. According to Phipps, "The Network gives us an opportunity to support people we know are leaders — to help them become leaders who are known in their community."

For more information about the Advocacy Leadership Network contact: Brady Sellet at Cincinnati Children's Hospital (513) 636-1245 or by e-mail: brady.sellet@cchmc.org.

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Ohio's Coordinating Center of Excellence in Dual Diagnosis

by Betsey Benson, Ph.D., Nisonger Center, University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

Studies report that as many as 30% of people with developmental disabilities experience symptoms of mental illness. The Ohio Coordinating Center of Excellence (CCOE) in Dual Diagnosis was established in 2004 to improve services and supports for people with the diagnosis of both mental illness and developmental disability. The mission of the CCOE is to identify best practices, train professionals in mental health, mental retardation/developmental disabilities and related service systems, and provide systemic and clinical consultation across Ohio. The CCOE is accomplishing these goals through education programs, community development activities, specialized clinical consultation services and research.

The CCOE is administered from the Department of Psychiatry at Wright State University by Ed Comer and Julie Gentile, M.D. Participating partners in the Center are The Ohio State University Nisonger Center (Betsey Benson, Ph.D.), Case Western Reserve Department of Psychiatry (Steve Ruedrich, M.D.) and Ascentia, Inc. (Steve Schwartz, Ph.D.) The CCOE is supported by ODDC, the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities and the Ohio Department of Mental Health.

Programs and Clinics

The CCOE has sponsored or participated in nearly 200 education programs including statewide and regional conferences. The CCOE facilitated the organization of 38 community development teams covering 70 counties. The teams are composed of professionals from developmental disabilities programs, mental health programs and other key community representatives. Community team members work together to problem solve and to efficiently utilize existing resources to provide needed services and supports for people with dual diagnosis.

The CCOE established six regional assessment clinics to provide psychiatric consultation services. The regional clinics work with local care providers to offer psychiatric diagnostic and assessment services. The assessment process results in a diagnostic report and recommendations.

Through statewide, regional and local activities, the CCOE is working to improve the lives of people with dual diagnosis. For more information, see the CCOE website.

Regional Assessment Clinics

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Around the Statehouse

House Creates Aging and Disability Services Committee

Speaker of the House, Armond Budish (D-Beachwood) has established a new Aging and Disability Services Committee chaired by Deborah Newcomb (D-Conneaut). In creating the committee, Speaker Budish stated "In this unique and trying time in Ohio's economy, it is imperative that we find solutions to Ohioans' pressing needs. Among those needs is the provision of appropriate care for older Ohioans and the pursuit of quality care for people with disabilities, regardless of age, so they may live productively and with dignity. This year, we've created the Aging and Disability Services committee in order to pay attention to those needs, and to work towards helping all Ohioans have the chance to live and work in their own communities."

Deborah Newcomb, a second term state representative from Ashtabula County, will chair the committee. According to Rep. Newcomb the creation of the committee is very timely. "This committee will give millions of Ohio's elderly citizens and people with disabilities a strong and needed voice in the Statehouse," Rep. Newcomb stated. "The work of this committee will address topics that link disability and aging issues, including guardianship, home based care and community inclusion. I am currently meeting with leaders of state agencies who are involved with the care of senior citizens and people with disabilities, and I look forward to working with organizations and concerned citizens as the committee begins to deliberate legislation that affects the lives of Ohioans."

Bev Johnson, executive director of the Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio, welcomed the establishment of a legislative committee that focuses on aging and disability issues. "There are significant public policy issues that this committee can and should address, such as allowing people with disabilities or the elderly to live in their own homes and communities," Johnson explained. "It is a golden opportunity for consumer stakeholders to advocate for social change at the state level," Johnson emphasized.

The Aging and Disability committee consists of eleven members, six democrats and five republicans. The ranking minority member is Rep. Peggy Lehner (R-Kettering). For more information about the committee members: Committee Details for Aging and Disability Services

"Priority" Legislation Introduced; Two Impact on Children with Disabilities

The members of the House and Senate leadership recently announced legislative priorities that will be the focus of their legislative efforts in the coming months. In addition to the biennium budget bill, the House outlined 13 pieces of legislation. House Bill (HB) 8 is the only bill selected as a priority by the House that has a direct impact on children and adults with disabilities. HB 8 prohibits health insurers from excluding coverage for specified services for individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. The bill is sponsored by Representatives Nancy Garland (D-New Albany) and Ted Celeste (D-Grandview Heights).

In the Senate, majority leaders identified 11 legislative initiatives. Senate Bill 6, introduced by Senator Kevin Coughlin (R-Cuyahoga Falls), establishes a special education pilot program within the Ohio Department of Education and provides scholarships to families of students receiving special education services to choose a school that best fits their child's individual needs.

For more information about these bills: General Assembly website

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Administration Submits 2010-2011 Budget Bill

The Strickland administration has unveiled the Executive Budget proposal for state fiscal years 2010-2011. Commonly referred to as the "Blue Book," the executive proposal sets forth the budget priorities of the administration over the next two years.

Earlier this month, Pari Sabety, Director of the Ohio Office of Budget and Management laid out the challenges of submitting a balanced budget and outlined the budget's priorities before the House Finance and Appropriations Committee. Sabety noted that the budget proposal addresses three key challenges. "First, we must assure that basic services for Ohio's citizens are maintained while the economy recovers from the deep recession we have been experiencing. Second, it is critical that we continue momentum on key investments that will position our state for success as the national economy returns to growth. Finally, we need to assure that we are managing our resources for sustainability," said Sabety.

Use of One-time Funds and Federal Stimulus Funds to Balance the Budget

The Executive Budget proposal uses federal stimulus funds and other one-time funds to balance the two year budget. There is considerable debate as the bill moves through the General Assembly about how the state budget can be sustained using one-time funds. One time General Revenue Funds (GRF) include $285 million from unclaimed funds, $948 million from the rainy day fund, a $200 million loan from funds at the School Facilities Commission and $35 million in transfers from other special funds.

The Executive Budget proposal also assumes resources will be made available to Ohio from the federal stimulus package. The stimulus bill, recently enacted by Congress and signed by the President, will benefit GRF supported programs. This includes $410.2 million per year for special education and economically challenged districts, $1.353 billion over the biennium for primary, secondary and higher education, $460 million per year for general government services, and $283.6 million in increased federal match for Medicaid spending. Ohio anticipates about $2.54 billion in federal Sabety mentioned that without the use of state and federal one-time resources, there would have been reductions in education, higher education, mental retardation and developmental disabilities, mental health, drug and alcohol and other state services. Despite the use of one-time funds, 33 of the 59 state agencies that receive state GRF are projected to receive less in fiscal year (FY) 2010 compared to their FY 2009 appropriations.

Budget Bill to be Introduced Soon

While a legislative bill has not been introduced at the time the DD Quarterly went to press and many details are not available, the "Blue Book" does reveal some prominent initiatives contained in this budget.

Unified Long term Care

The Executive Budget continues implementation of a Unified Long Term Care Budget Initiative. The Department of Aging convened a Unified Long Term Care Budget workgroup comprised of hundreds of participants, held hearings throughout the state and solicited input from thousands of Ohioans, providers and consumers of long-term care to consider ways to build a balanced system for long term care in Ohio.

In this budget, the Administration moves forward on a number of the workgroup's recommendations and makes a number of other reforms in Ohio's long term care system. Most notably, the Executive Budget provides full funding to avoid waiting lists for community care programs administered by the Department of Aging, implements a price-based nursing home reimbursement system and establishes a new certificate of need to enable the supply of nursing home beds to align more closely with the demand for acute care services.

Health Care Expansion/Medicaid

The Executive Budget proposal continues to build on access to affordable health care through the state's Medicaid program and State Quality and Coverage Initiatives. The Executive Budget proposal provides access for children up to 300 percent of poverty. Other budget initiatives have the potential to cover an additional 110,000 uninsured Ohioans when fully phased in.

Education

The Executive Budget proposal creates a Preschool through Sixteen System of Education, and creates a Center for Early Childhood Development in the Department of Education. Staff from multiple state departments will be brought together as will a variety of functions including licensing, research, professional development, communications and accountability. The Executive Budget also codifies the role and responsibility of the Early Childhood Advisory Council to ensure comprehensive focus on programming for young children.

The Executive Budget proposal also includes a set of reforms in the state's primary and secondary education system and uses an evidence-based methodology which links educational research, academic achievement and successful outcomes with funding components to achieve results.

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Emergency Management Materials Available

Copies of the popular Emergency Management Be Prepared Kit are available to individuals with disabilities and community organizations. The Be Prepared Kit provides valuable information and serves as a planning tool for people with functional needs to help them prepare for emergencies.

Ohio Legal Rights Service (OLRS) wrote the Be Prepared Kit in partnership with representatives from the DD Alliance, and the Ohio Departments of Health, Aging, and Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, and the Governor's Council on People with Disabilities. For copies of the Be Prepared Kit, contact OLRS by phone at (614) 466-7264 or (800) 282-9181 TTY: (614) 728-2553 or (800) 858-3542

An online version is also available: Emergency Management Be Prepared Kit

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ADD Commissioner Retires

Patricia Morrissey, commissioner of the U.S. Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD), recently announced her retirement. The ADD provides federal oversight and funding for Ohio's DD Network partners: ODDC, Ohio Legal Rights Service and the University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities.

Morrissey was appointed commissioner of ADD by former President George W. Bush in August 2001. Prior to her appointment, Morrissey worked in both the public and private sector where she played a central role in the drafting of major disability legislation.

Morrissey stated in her retirement announcement, "I am ready to try new adventures. I am looking forward to this new phase in my life." She closed by saying that she remains passionate about the power that the Developmental Disabilities Act represents and the principles it affirms.

Carolyn Knight, interim executive director at ODDC, commenting about Morrissey said, "Pat was a true advocate for the disability community. I particularly appreciated her passion for children's issues. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her."

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News from Ohio Legal Rights Service

OLRS Calls for State Agencies to Ban Restraints

OLRS' Ombuds section sent formal written complaints in mid-January to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) and the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) regarding the use of restraints in facilities and schools. OLRS and other state and national organizations have advocated for many years that licensed and certified providers across all settings — education, residential treatment facilities, community residential, and hospitals — that serve children and adults with disabilities should reduce or eliminate the use of physical restraints.

The complaint letter to ODJFS called for a ban in children's facilities licensed by the Department on the use of prone restraints or other restraints that restrict breathing. OLRS investigated the death of a 17-year-old girl who died following a prone restraint episode at a children's residential treatment center in northeast Ohio. OLRS also recommended to ODJFS the need to improve reporting and state-level monitoring of restraints in all settings, including oversight of all injuries sustained during restraint episodes. Agencies responsible for monitoring facilities are often unaware of restraint related injuries due to the lack of a comprehensive reporting and monitoring requirement.

Michael Kirkman, executive director of OLRS, said, "The goal should be to stop the use of prone restraints immediately and to eventually reduce or eliminate the use of all other restraints because of their lethal and traumatizing effects." Kirkman said there is a need for standardization across all state departments regarding restraint use. Currently, there are multiple state departments that license and certify facilities and each system establishes its own standards and rules governing restraints. ODE has no regulations or standards for restraint of children in schools.

Deficiencies identified during the course of OLRS investigations into the use of restraints in public schools led to the ODE complaint letter. Investigators, acting on complaints, found school staff used a mechanical restraint (Humane Body Wrap) to transport a student to a concrete block room in the building. The use of inappropriate behavioral interventions in a self-contained classroom and the lack of written policies or guidelines related to the use of emergency behavioral interventions — seclusion, time out, physical or mechanical restraints — were found in the other investigation. Both schools and ODE were notified of the deficiencies.

The complaint sent to ODE recommended that the Department address the lack of administrative rules regarding the use of physical or mechanical restraints, seclusion and time out for classrooms in Ohio. OLRS urged ODE to take immediate steps to promulgate rules that (1) require schools to prohibit the use of prone restraints or any other restraints that restrict breathing, (2) require school personnel to receive ongoing training on the use of positive behavioral interventions and (3) require schools to maintain a log that records each incident of an emergency behavioral intervention and report serious injury or death.

Governor Calls for a Single, Statewide Policy on Restraint

Governor Strickland, on January 23, 2009, requested John Martin, director of the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities to chair an interdepartmental group of representatives from relevant state agencies, to create a statewide policy on the use of restraints.

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Southeast Ohio Arc Family Members Join Winter Olympics Initiative

by Margaret Demko, ODDC member

Some of the athletes at the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games will receive a handmade scarf, courtesy of a group of parents from The Arc of Southeast Ohio. This group of family members gathers weekly to participate in a nationwide initiative to knit or crochet scarves for the athletes participating in the competition in Boise, Idaho.

The family members knit or crochet scarves using a pattern of their choice and yarn colors specified by the World Winter Games organizers. The athletes, however, are not the only ones benefiting from this activity. The rewards for The Arc group are immeasurable. While they are knitting or crocheting, the families are also discussing issues concerning their children who have disabilities. This weekly time together provides them an opportunity to plan other family Arc events and most importantly, to share their personal stories with other families. There is no better way to spend time when you are a parent of a child with a disability than sharing and coping together with other families.

The national goal is to distribute scarves to each of the 3,000 athletes from more than 100 countries who are participating in the winter games. The Southeast Ohio Arc families hope the athletes appreciate the scarves.

The scarf project is sponsored by Coats & Clark, Inc., a sewing and needlecraft products company. They have chosen Special Olympics as a featured organization in their creative giving program.

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Contact Information

DD Quarterly is produced by the Ohio Legal Rights Service. To share your comments or suggestions about the newsletter, or to sign-up to receive email notification when the DD Quarterly is published, contact:

Ohio Legal Rights Service
Attn: Tom Hemmert
50 W. Broad Street, Suite 1400
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Voice: (614) 466-7264 or (800) 282-9181
TTY: (614) 728-2553 or (800) 858-3542
Fax: (614) 644-1888
Email: Newsletter@olrs.state.oh.us

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About ODDC

The Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council is a group of 35 people, appointed by the governor, who plan and advocate for Ohioans with disabilities. ODDC receives federal funds and distributes those funds by awarding grants for projects and activities that create visions, influence public policy, pilot new approaches, empower individuals and families, and advocate system change. Contact information for ODDC is: 8 East Long Street, Suite 1200 Columbus, Ohio 43215, Voice phone: (614) 466-5205 (800) 766-7426 (Toll free in Ohio); TTY: (614) 644-5530; Fax: (614) 466-0298; Web site: www.ddc.ohio.gov

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DD Quarterly Collaboration

The DD Quarterly newsletter is an ongoing collaboration among the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, Ohio Legal Rights Service, the Nisonger Center and the University of Cincinnati, University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities.

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