Disability Rights California - Hot Topics & Disability News

Governor's revised budget: mixed effects on people with disabilities takes bold steps forward on institutions, but doubles down on IHSS recipients

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:58:03 -0700

Personal data for home care workers, recipients lost in the mail: DRC advocate Deborah Doctor quoted

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:58:21 -0700

Deadline May 31: We want your help on Public Comment Survey

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:57:38 -0700

Please take 5 minutes to tell us what our priorities should be for the next 5 years - your opinion is important. This is your opportunity to partner with Disability Rights California in shaping the future of disability rights advocacy in California. Here is the survey in English or en Espanol or call us toll free 800 776 5746 and say you want help filling out the public comments survey.

The tattered safety net for the disabled (Recommended Reading, 5/12/12)

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:57:13 -0700

Read the Washington Post article here, 5/12/12

Recreational program for disabled at risk from Sacramento budget cuts (Recommended Reading, 5/10/12)

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:57:07 -0700

Read the Sacramento Bee article here, 5/10/12

Steve Gold: Community First Choice Regulations Published (Recommended Reading)

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:56:59 -0700

Read about it here

Center for Independent Living celebrates grand opening of new store on Telegraph (Recommended Reading)

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:56:52 -0700

Read about it here

In NY and CA, different approaches to patient abuse reform (Recommended Reading, 5/9/12)

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:56:46 -0700

Read the abc7news.com article here, 5/9/12

Increase in students with disabilities coincides with decreased funding (Recommended Reading, 5/8/12)

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:56:36 -0700

Read the Daily Sundial article here, 5/8/12

Former patients protest psychiatrist convention (Recommended Reading, 5/7/12)

Tue, 15 May 2012 19:56:30 -0700

Read the Philly.com article here, 5/7/12

DRC opposes Senate Bill 1186: 30 day notice requirement for accessibility suits infringes on civil rights

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:03:34 -0700

Disability Rights California finds some valuable components of the bill put forward by Senators Steinberg and Dutton and is continuing discussions around amendments. However, as it stands, we oppose the bill because: the 30 day notice required before bringing suit for lack of access infringes upon the civil rights of people with disabilities; the California Commission on Disability Access is not used to resolve issues that the bill proposes to remedy; and the Commission is given new requirements but insufficient funds to implement them. Read our letter opposing SB 1186.

L.A. Times study shows autistic children in California with least resources get fewest state services; Senators promise changes at hearing

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:03:18 -0700

Reporter Alan Zarembo continues his investigative series on the disparities in autism services provided through the state's 21 regional centers. Read the complete May 1 article.

Read DRC testimony to Senate Select Committee on Autism, April 30.

Disabled African-American students face frequent suspensions (Recommended Reading, 5/7/12)

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:01:41 -0700

Read the HealthyCal.org article here, 5/7/12

Near Melrose, a national healthcare predicament plays out (Recommended Reading, 5/7/12)

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:01:53 -0700

Read the LA Times article here, 5/7/12

New name for PTSD could mean less stigma (Recommended Reading, 5/5/12)

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:02:02 -0700

Read the Washington Post article here, 5/5/12

LAUSD Special Education Services Are Suffering, But Is It A Problem With The Records Or The Care? (Recommended Reading, 5/4/12)

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:02:10 -0700

Read the Huffington Post article here, 5/4/12

Assembly extends Laura's Law enabling forced treatment of people with mental health disabilities (Recommended Reading, 5/3/12)

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:02:17 -0700

Read the San Francisco Chronicle article here, 5/3/12

Report: SF School District Violated Special Education Laws (Recommended Reading, 5/2/12)

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:02:28 -0700

Read the Bay Citizen article here, 5/2/12

Disability Rights California is a proud member of the Campaign for Justice

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:25:32 -0700

This month they are featuring pro bono efforts and our Adult Day Health Care case (Darling v. Douglas), led by DRC attorney Elissa Gershon and our pro bono partner Morrison & Foerster LLP. Please take a moment to read the article about their terrific work and consider joining the Campaign.

Join our Southern California Latino Conference June 23, 2012, 9am-4pm, San Bernardino

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:25:14 -0700

Disability Rights California is providing a networking and information exchange opportunity for advocates, people with disabilities, service providers, parents of children with disabilities and community leaders interested in improving life for Latinos with disabilities. Read the conference details here.

AR 2011Check out our 2011 Annual Report

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:24:53 -0700

Read our success stories and how we helped: David find a more inclusive school; Joaquin to leave an institution and move to his own place; and Esther to hold on to her community-based services. Download and read the latest DRC Annual Report.

Video of the week: Autism and the iPad, 60 Minutes

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:24:35 -0700

Watch the video on YouTube.

Chen Guangcheng Escape: China Activists Inspired By Blind Dissident Lawyer (Recommended Reading, 4/29/12)

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:23:33 -0700

Read the Huffington Post article here, 4/29/12

White House Blog: success story in community living (Recommended Reading, 4/26/12)

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:23:40 -0700

Read the article here, 4/26/12

Actor Noah Wyle, Disability Advocates Arrested In DC Protest (Recommended Reading, 4/23/12)

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:23:48 -0700

Read the Disability Scoop article here, 4/23/12

DRC sponsors bills to improve reporting on injuries to people living in developmental centers

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:18:39 -0700

Read the 4/21/12 U-T San Diego article here.

Federal Administration on Community Living created from administrations on aging and developmental disabilities

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:18:22 -0700

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has created a new unit, the Administration for Community Living (ACL). The new unit combines the Administration on Aging (AoA) the Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) and the Office on Disability (OD) into one unit. See the organizational chart.

The Administrator of the ACL will also head the Administration on Aging division. The Principal Deputy Administrator will report to the administrator but will advise the HHS secretary directly on disability policy.

While this change looks more like a reorganization than anything else, the DHHS secretary said:

"For too long, too many Americans have faced the impossible choice between moving to an institution or living at home without the long-term services and supports they need. The goal of the new Administration for Community Living will be to help people with disabilities and older Americans live productive, satisfying lives." - Secretary Kathleen Sebelius

Please tell us what you want DRC to do next

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:17:44 -0700

Disability Rights California is now collecting suggestions of priorities for our next five years of advocacy work throughout the state. This is your opportunity to let us know what you think is most needed to improve the lives of Californians with disabilities. It's quick and easy: just go through checking boxes or adding additional ideas in the space for that. Or call us toll free 800 776 5746 and say you want help with the survey.

Video of the week: Public service announcement about "R" word wins Youtube award

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:17:19 -0700

Watch the YouTube video here.

Upcoming events: Webinar: Is Fulbright Right for You?

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:16:35 -0700

May 3, 2-3pm. A webinar on “Fulbrights for Persons with Disabilities,” explores how people with disabilities can teach or conduct research in other countries on Fulbright grants.

BART Honors Berkeley Accessibilty Advocate Hale Zukas (Recommended Reading, 4/20/12)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:16:10 -0700

Read the Berkeley Daily Planet article here, 4/20/12

Study: Direct Care Providers Struggle To Make Ends Meet (Recommended Reading, 4/18/12)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:16:02 -0700

Read the KQED article here, 4/18/12

Help for entrepreneurs with disabilities (Recommended Reading, 4/17/12)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:15:52 -0700

Read the Chicago Tribune article here, 4/17/12

Senate Votes Unanimously to Pass 'End the R-Word' Bill (Recommended Reading, 4/15/12)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:15:46 -0700

Read the Northridge-Chatsworth Patch article here, 4/15/12

California's mentally ill people need early diagnosis, not forced treatment (Recommended Reading, 4/13/12)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:15:37 -0700

Read The Guardian article here, 4/13/12

CA study shows much higher suspension rates of students with disabilities (Recommended Reading, 4/11/12)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:15:30 -0700

Read the California Watch article here, 4/11/12

Study says 54% of adults with disabilities do not use internet (Recommended Reading, 4/15/12)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:15:22 -0700

Read the Global Post article here, 4/15/12

1st Pulitzer Prize to new media: Huffington Post coverage of veterans with significant disabilities (Recommended Reading, 4/12)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:15:15 -0700

Read the article here

In-home services cuts would hit 13,460 people in Sacramento region (Recommended Reading, 4/10/12)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:11:19 -0700

Read the Sacramento Business Journal article here, 4/10/12

Please tell us what you want DRC to do next

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:38:35 -0700

Southern California Latino Disability Conference

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:38:19 -0700

One Voice! Strength through Advocacy.

June 23, 2012 9am-4pm 701 South Mount Vernon Ave. San Bernardino, CA

* No registration fee for this conference * Lunch will be provided to all registered participants * No child care will be provided * Scent free event * Space is limited *Pre-registration required

RSVP 1-800-776-5746 Mary Rios

Deadline April 19: This is your chance to suggest ways California can improve the path from school to work for young adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:37:53 -0700

Go here to respond to a short survey.

Have an idea about how to make the federal government more accessible?

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:37:37 -0700

Until April 9, ideas are being accepted in how to improve Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, requiring that all federal agencies' electronic and information technology be accessible to people with disabilities, both inside and outside of the government. There is a fascinating dialogue taking place as suggestions are posted to help draft a new strategic plan for 508 implementation. Check it out here.

DRC Los Angeles Office moved on March 26, 2012

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:37:20 -0700

The new address, phone and fax number are:

350 South Bixel Street, Suite 290, Los Angeles CA 90017
Telephone: (213)213-8000 Fax: (213) 213-8001

California court decision (Finley v City of Santa Monica) benefits people with disabilities in federally subsidized housing (Section 8)

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:35:53 -0700

Check out the Finley decision that provides a clear interpretation of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations, ensuring that people with disabilities who are beneficiaries of Special Needs Trusts will be able to access the housing and disability benefits they need.

Video of the week: Exclusive Interview with Lee Hirsch about "Bully" and Special Needs

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:35:33 -0700

Watch the youtube.com video here.

Feinstein seeks end to abusive suits against firms (Recommended Reading, 4/3/12)

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:33:46 -0700

Read the SFGate.com article here, 4/3/12

Article against Laura's Law by DRC Attorney Dan Brzovic published (Recommended Reading, 4/2/12)

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:33:55 -0700

Read the San Francisco Chronicle article here, 4/2/12

Link between PTSD and violent behavior is weak (Recommended Reading, 3/31/12)

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:34:02 -0700

Read the Washington Post article here, 3/31/12

Resources from the National Bullying Prevention Center (Recommended Reading)

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:34:11 -0700

Read the National Bullying Prevention Center Handouts, worksheets, and templates here

Ryan plan would hurt people with disabilities (Recommended Reading, 3/30/12)

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:34:19 -0700

Read the Sacramento Bee article here, 3/30/12

Woman featured in Book of Dreams honored for Sacramento City College achievement (Recommended Reading, 3/14/12)

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:34:29 -0700

Read the Sacramento Bee article here, 3/14/12

Deadline for hotel pools to be ADA-compliant extended (Recommended Reading)

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 23:34:40 -0700

Read the USA Today article here

Updated Tax Tips for people with disabilities

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:34:02 -0700

Here is an updated list of tax tips prepared by Dan Brzovic of DRC. Please also check out the new tax tip videos prepared by the IRS using American Sign Language (ASL).

DRC supports case in Marin calling for recognition of rights to refuse medication

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:33:46 -0700

Read the related Marin Independent Journal article here.

Disability Rights California now offering the Client Assistance Program (CAP) for people looking for help in resolving their issues with the Department of Rehabilitation

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:33:31 -0700

On January 1, 2012, Disability Rights California began providing services under the Client Assistance Program (CAP), serving as a vital link between the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) and the disability community. CAP provides advocacy to persons with disabilities who are seeking or receiving vocational rehabilitation (VR) services from DOR. CAP advocates are independent advocates for DOR clients and client applicants. Read more about CAP services.

Judge cites likelihood of harm caused by 20% IHSS cuts, violation of the ADA and deficiency of notice in award of preliminary injunction

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:33:12 -0700

In the linked March 2, 2012 orders for Preliminary Injunction and Class Certification in DRC's Oster v Lighthouse class action suit, Judge Claudia Wilken provides background for the decisions. In brief, the likelihood of harm to the many recipients of In Home Supportive Services by a 20% cut in their hours was demonstrated. This likelihood of harm to health and safety, could result in institutionalization, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act. The judge also found the notice being sent by the state about the cuts was deficient in important ways: through omission and misleading language, it failed to inform recipients of the reason their hours were being reduced or how to rebut it effectively. Read the preliminary injunction here and the class certification here.

DRC testimony to March 13 Senate Human Services Committee hearing on "Law Enforcement Practices within the CA Developmental Centers"

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:32:50 -0700

In response to California Watch investigations of abuse of people living in the state developmental centers, Senator Carol Liu, chair of the Human Services Committee, has called a hearing to review practices of the internal police force administered by the Office of Protective Services. Among presenters will be Leslie Morrison, directing attorney of the DRC Investigations Unit, to testify about her just concluded review of selected issues and make some recommendations for change. The hearing is taking place Tuesday, 1:30-4, Room 3191, State Capitol.

California court decision (Finley v City of Santa Monica) benefits people with disabilities in federally subsidized housing (Section 8)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:32:30 -0700

More people than expected are qualifying to transfer from ADHC to Community Based Adult Services

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:32:12 -0700

Catherine Blakemore of Disability Rights California testified March 7 to the Assembly joint hearing of the committee on Aging & Long Term Care and the budget subcommittee on Health and Human Services. Read a summary of her testimony and others at California Healthline.

Video of the week: Sterilization victims seek compensation

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:31:48 -0700

AC360's Elizabeth Cohen reports on California's history of forced sterilizations and its reluctance to pay reparations to the victims. Watch the CNN Video online.

Sen. Tom Harkin: Fixing Economy Starts With Early Education (Recommended Reading, 3/8/12)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:31:09 -0700

Read the Huffington Post article here, 3/8/12

Frequency, Severity and Cost of Brain Injuries Demand Increased Awareness (Recommended Reading, 3/5/12)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:31:01 -0700

Read the Market Watch article here, 3/5/12

Oversight of California nursing homes lacking, report finds (Recommended Reading, 3/7/12)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:30:55 -0700

Read the California Watch article here, 3/7/12

The View from Under My Desk (Recommended Reading)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:30:47 -0700

Read the California Daily Journal article here

Wheelchair Guys Are All Alike (Recommended Reading, 3/11/12)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:30:39 -0700

Read the New York Times article here, 3/11/12

Activists seek to curtail restraining students (Recommended Reading, 3/10/12)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:30:32 -0700

Read the AP article here, 3/10/12

U.S. recognizes Turkish parliament member with disability (Recommended Reading)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:30:25 -0700

Read the Hurriyet Daily News article here

Fran Pavley, California State Senator, Introduces Bill To Strip The Word 'Retarded' From State Laws (Recommended Reading, 3/7/12)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:30:16 -0700

Read the Huffington Post article here, 3/7/12

Parents of autistic children speak out on Sunnyvale murder-suicide (Recommended Reading, 3/9/12)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:30:08 -0700

Read the Contra Costa Times article here, 3/9/12

March 15 deadline: ATMs Fall Short on Disability Rule (Recommended Reading, 3/7/12)

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:30:00 -0700

Read the Wall Street Journal article here,, 3/7/12

At public hearings, DRC testifies that critical needs of people with mental health disabilities could get lost in the shuffle as state proceeds with realignment to a county-based system

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:28:08 -0800

Read the testimonies of Disability Rights California staff, Margaret Johnson and Dan Brzovic, to February hearings in Sacramento about the problems we foresee as the state changes to a system where most responsibility for services will be at the county level.

Disability Rights California now offering the Client Assistance Program (CAP) for people looking for help in resolving their issues with the Department of Rehabilitation

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:27:55 -0800

Tax Benefits for Disabled Taxpayers

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:27:09 -0800

Visit the IRS webpage for more information. In addition, the IRS You Tube channel offers tax tips in American Sign Language (ASL). Also, see more tips from disability.gov.

National schools survey shows students with disabilities suspended twice as often as peers (Recommended Reading, 3/6/12)

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:25:25 -0800

Read the PR Newswire article here, 3/6/12

New Fact Sheets from HHS.gov (Recommended Reading)

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:26:04 -0800

HHS.gov: Fact Sheet on Affordable Care Act & People with Disabilities (in English and en Español)

State Independent Living Council Speaks Out on the Need for Increased Awareness of the Impact of Living with Brain Injuries (Recommended Reading, 3/5/12)

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:26:13 -0800

Read the PR Newswire/Sacramento Bee article here, 3/5/12

U.S. Pushes Target for Hiring Disabled People (Recommended Reading, 2/29/12)

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:26:22 -0800

Read the Wall Street Journal article here, 2/29/12

IHSS Patients, Caregivers Rally Against More Budget Cuts (Recommended Reading, 2/28/12)

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:26:29 -0800

Read the KPBS article, 2/28/12

The 2012-13 Budget: Oversight and Accountability at State Hospitals (Recommended Reading, 3/1/12)

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:26:39 -0800

Read the info from the Legislative Analysts Office here, 3/1/12

CA Watch reports on hundreds of abuse cases at developmental centers; Senator Liu and Assembly Member Beall call for investigative hearings

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:38:42 -0800

On February 23 California Watch released its investigation, citing more than 850 cases over the last few years of abuse and unexplained injuries of people with developmental disabilities living in the state's remaining residential centers. Hardly any of the cases have led to prosecution. The investigation focuses on the state's reliance on an in-house police force, operated by the Office of Protective Services, that has overseen a steep rise in injuries while the actual population at the centers has declined. Although many cases of abuse were documented, few appear to have been reported to the police.

The lead article by Ryan Gabrielson (www.CaliforniaWatch.org) mentions a 2005 DRC study of unexplained genital lacerations among male residents of one of the developmental centers and quotes DRC investigations director Leslie Morrison. On February 24, during a KQED panel discussion of the findings, Assembly Member Jim Beall said he will explore holding field hearings at the centers, together with the Attorney General's office. State Senator Carol Liu announced her interest in investigative hearings as well. The five state centers house around 1800 people and are based in Sonoma, Riverside, Los Angeles, Tulare and Orange counties.

Disability Rights California now offering the Client Assistance Program (CAP) for people looking for help in resolving their issues with the Department of Rehabilitation

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:38:06 -0800

Memorial for David Rosenbaum Alfandary set for March 31 at Ed Roberts Campus, Berkeley

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:37:48 -0800

The memorial service for David, who died unexpectedly after a short hospitalization, is being organized for his friends, family and community at the Ed Roberts Campus, located at the Ashby Bart station in Berkeley. The Bay Area office of Disability Rights California welcomed David as one of its young volunteers, 2008-2011. David's father, Steven Rosenbaum, is an attorney, formerly with DRC, who in 2011 was taking part in voluntary activities to support the accessibility of Egypt's elections.

Tools to help you transition from ADHC to Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS)

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:37:29 -0800

Have you or someone you know been denied CBAS--the program that replaces MediCal Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) on April 1? DRC has put together a set of materials to help you understand your rights and how to file an appeal of the denial:

1. Fair Hearings Powerpoint
2. Fair Hearing Packet
3. Attachment 1.1.: Definitions
4. Attachment 1.2.: Eligibility Criteria
5. Attachment 1.3.: Assessment Process
6. Attachment 1.4.: Due Process
7. Attachment 2: Sample Notice of Action and Hearing Request
8. Attachment 3: Sample Position Statement
9. Attachment 4: Self-Assessment Worksheet
10. Attachment 5: Definitions and Eligibility Criteria

ADHC Services extended to March 31

California Gov. Jerry Brown takes case for Medi-Cal cuts to Washington (Recommended Reading, 2/24/12)

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:36:33 -0800

Read the Bellingham Herald article here, 2/24/12

HUD: Bank of America violated Fair Housing Act (Recommended Reading, 2/27/12)

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:36:41 -0800

Read the CBS News article here, 2/27/12

Barack Obama and the state of race in America (Recommended Reading, 2/27/12)

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:36:47 -0800

Read the Washington Post article here, 2/27/12

New Book Finds UCSB Surpasses Federal Standard (Recommended Reading, 2/2/12)

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:36:54 -0800

Read the Daily Nexus article here, 2/2/12

Tammerlin Drummond: Mentally ill man falls through cracks with tragic results (Recommended Reading, 2/26/12)

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:37:05 -0800

Read the Mercury News article here, , 2/26/12

Tax Benefits for Disabled Taxpayers

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:03:15 -0800

Visit the IRS webpage for more information.

Disability Rights California now offering the Client Assistance Program (CAP) for people looking for help in resolving their issues with the Department of Rehabilitation

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:02:50 -0800

Michael Stortz recognized for cutting edge mental health work

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:02:31 -0800

Michael Stortz, senior attorney in the Disability Rights California San Diego office, has received the Legal Services Provider of the Year award, given by the California Association of Mental Health Patients' Rights Advocates. DRC executive director Catherine Blakemore said, "This honors Mike's great client work over the years and his cutting edge thinking about how to improve mental health systems to better protect clients' rights."

Tools to help you transition from ADHC to Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:02:13 -0800

1. Fair Hearings Powerpoint
2. Fair Hearing Packet
3. Attachment 1.1.: Definitions
4. Attachment 1.2.: Eligibility Criteria
5. Attachment 1.3.: Assessment Process
6. Attachment 1.4.: Due Process
7. Attachment 2: Sample Notice of Action and Hearing Request
8. Attachment 3: Sample Position Statement
9. Attachment 4: Self-Assessment Worksheet
10. Attachment 5: Definitions and Eligibility Criteria

ADHC Services extended to March 31

Case settles: Sacramento County mental health clients will continue receiving support from their service providers

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:01:49 -0800

Approximately 5000 people receiving critical mental health services from Sacramento County will receive "continuity of care" from their regional support teams, thanks to a case settled January 23 by Disability Rights California, the Western Center on Law and Poverty and Cooley LLP. The case, Napper et al v. Sacramento County, was filed in 2010 in response to a County plan to abruptly close successful outpatient services and offer alternative services by County employees. See press release for full details and the Stipulation of Parties to a Resolution of All Matters of Issue.

Video of the week: Zona Roberts accepts California Hall of Fame induction for her son, Ed Roberts, disability rights pioneer

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:01:21 -0800

DRC recommended Ed Roberts for the Hall of Fame and this 5 1/2 minute summary of his life and thanks to Governor Brown for taking a chance on him is well worth watching.

DRC receives grant to address stigma against people with mental health disabilities

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:00:54 -0800

Disability Rights California (DRC) was awarded a 3-year grant by the California Mental Health Services Authority to address stigma and discrimination affecting people with mental health disabilities. An Advisory Group will help DRC develop strategies to reduce discrimination and implement project activities.

Missing from the Presidential Debate: Long-Term Care (Recommended Reading, 2/21/12)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:59:38 -0800

Read the PR Newswire article here, 2/21/12

Crowding hampers L.A. County hospitals' handling of mentally ill (Recommended Reading, 2/11/12)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:59:13 -0800

Read the LA Times article here, 2/11/12

Cracking down on parking meter cheaters (Recommended Reading, 2/15/12)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:59:22 -0800

Read the LA Times article here, 2/15/12

‘Switched at Birth’: ABC Family’s Groundbreaking Deaf/Hearing Drama (Recommended Reading, 2/14/12)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:59:30 -0800

Read the The Daily Beast article here, 2/14/12

Braille comes unbound from the book: how technology can stop a literary crisis (Recommended Reading, 2/14/12)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:59:47 -0800

Read the The Guardian article here, 2/14/12

Electronic signing (e-signing) and Social Security: the latest information (Recommended Reading)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:59:57 -0800

Read the ssa.gov article here

H-Net Review Publication: Goldberg on Schweik, 'The Ugly Laws: Disability in Public' (Recommended Reading, 2/12/12)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:00:10 -0800

Read the H-Net article here, 2/12

Sacramento County aims mental health effort at hard-to-reach groups (Recommended Reading, 2/13/12)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:00:28 -0800

Read the Sacramento Bee article here, 2/13/12

Help design a more accessible LA County election experience

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:56:28 -0800

The public at large is invited to participate in a challenge to find ideas, concepts, and voting experience to "design an accessible election experience for everyone." The challenge takes place in stages. The first stage "Inspiration" is open for 2 more weeks. There are 4 stages total which will end in March 2012. The Registrar is also looking for Advisory members to help w/ outreach. Visit www.openideo.com and read the flyer for more information.

DRC and other advocates attend San Gabriel city council meeting to discuss proposed group home

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:57:48 -0800

Following a demonstration earlier in January against a proposed group home, the January 17 meeting of the San Gabriel city council heard comments from 26 community members and advocates, including Disability Rights California. The proposed home for 4 adults with developmental disabilities is intended for current residents of the Lanterman Developmental Center who have decided they want to move to more integrated settings.

The DRC representatives drew attention to some "Myths and Realities" about supported housing. For example, although there are no studies showing that realty around supported housing loses value or that the surrounding neighborhood deteriorates in any way, these are commonly held beliefs. In this case, some of the individuals in opposition were considering the group home as a business being wrongly sited in a residential zone.

Speakers representing DRC, Area Board 10 and other disability advocates emphasized that the individuals who would be moving into the group home had the same rights as anyone else to live in any neighborhood they chose.

Read the materials DRC provided to the meeting and a newspaper report from the Pasadena Star News (1/19/12) of the meeting.

Video of the Week: Disability Access Tips for the Small Business

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:55:53 -0800

Here is a helpful little gem--spend 11 minutes and come away with solid information about the most common obstacles keeping people with disabilities from entering and using a small business. Helps business owners decide if they need a California Access Specialist (CASP) to advise about compliance with accessibility laws. Produced by Consumer Attorneys of California: www.caoc.com/CA/

Judge calls settlement of Adult Day Health Care case "fair, reasonable and win-win for both sides"

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:55:38 -0800

On January 24 Judge Saundra Brown Armstrong approved settlement of our lawsuit to preserve ADHC services for tens of thousands of Californians who need them to avoid being institutionalized. Read details of the settlement and about the new center-based services, similar to ADHC services, that the State will offer to those eligible.

Sterilized by North Carolina, she felt raped once more (Recommended Reading, 1/25/11)

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:54:19 -0800

Read the Los Angeles Times article here, 1/25/12

Fair Housing Tip of the Month: Breaking a Lease as a Reasonable Accommodation (Recommended Reading, 1/26/11)

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:54:27 -0800

Read them here, 1/26/12

Autism roundtable, Part I: Angry parents, disability rights, and living in a neurotypical world (Recommended Reading, 1/25/11)

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:54:34 -0800

Read the Plos Blog article here, 1/25/12

The Battle Against IHSS Budget Cuts (Recommended Reading, 1/25/11)

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:54:43 -0800

Read the San Diego Entertainer Magazine article here, 1/25/12

Community celebrates Ed Roberts Day (Recommended Reading, 1/24/11)

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:54:49 -0800

Read the UC Berkeley article here, 1/24/12

Officials oppose extended federal oversight of 2 mental hospitals (Recommended Reading, 1/24/11)

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:54:57 -0800

Read the Los Angeles Times article here, 1/24/12

Case settles: Sacramento County mental health clients will continue receiving support from their service providers

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:40:17 -0800

Read related story from the Sacramento Bee: Mental health advocates reach court settlement with Sacramento County, 1/23/12

Court gives preliminary approval to ADHC settlement; sets Fairness Hearing for January 24, 2012

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:39:56 -0800

The court has taken the next steps in the settlement of the Adult Day Health Care class action case (Darling et al v. Douglas et al) filed by Disability Rights California and other advocates. Preliminary approval of the settlement terms has been given and you can read the notice explaining your rights, options and deadlines to act. You can also read the court order outlining the terms of the settlement. A Fairness Hearing about the settlement is scheduled for January 24.

ADHC Services Extended to February 29: See press release.

Judge grants preliminary injunction, stopping IHSS across-the-board cuts from going forward

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:39:28 -0800

Judge Claudia Wilken today issued a preliminary injunction, barring the State of California from going forward with the 20% cuts in home care hours for hundreds of thousands of seniors and people with disabilities. She had previously issued a Temporary Restraining Order on December 1, stopping the cuts until yesterday’s hearing. Read the complete press release here.

Golden opportunity: California high school juniors and seniors with disabilities can apply to be part of 5-day Youth Leadership Forum, July in Sacramento

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:38:10 -0800

See application materials to apply by February 10 or go directly to www.dor.ca.gov/YLF

Dual Eligibles: read all about it

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:37:53 -0800

Enrollment process for dual eligibles: people eligible for both Medicare and Medi-Cal. This is the topic of the January 12 roundtable, organized by California Healthline. Deborah Doctor, DRC legislative advocate, is one of 6 participants who contributed.

DRC legislative advocates summarize disability-related components of Governor's budget

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:37:36 -0800

DRC's legislative advocates prepared this quick summary of how the Governor's 2012-2013 budget, released on January 5, will negatively impact Californians with disabilities. In short, we are disappointed by the severe undercutting of the services and supports Californians with disabilities need to remain independent in the community.

People with Disabilities: Law Reform Needed (Recommended Reading, 1/22/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:35:40 -0800

Read the Human Rights Watch article here, 1/22/12

Former Monroe teen writes, illustrates book (Recommended Reading, 1/19/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:35:48 -0800

Read the Monroe News Star article here, 1/19/12

Community voices opinions on group home for the disabled in San Gabriel (Recommended Reading, 1/19/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:35:59 -0800

Read the Pasadena Star News article here, 1/19/12

My So-Called Bipolar Life (Recommended Reading, 1/17/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:36:12 -0800

Read the NY Times article here, 1/17/12

Calif. Clinic Brings Free Dental Care to Developmentally Disabled (Recommended Reading, 1/18/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:36:21 -0800

Read the ABC News article here, 1/18/12

Court settlement makes more vets with PTSD eligible for health benefits (Recommended Reading, 1/17/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:36:25 -0800

Read the Sacramento Bee article here, 1/17/12

In-Home Supportive Services helps Tulare County's elderly, disabled stay in homes and faces more cuts (Recommended Reading, 1/13/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:36:33 -0800

Read the Visalia Times-Delta article here, 1/13/12

Disabled inmates denied crucial access, judge says (Recommended Reading, 1/14/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:36:42 -0800

Read the www.sfgate.com article here, 1/14/12

Experts Call 'Scream Rooms' Untherapeutic, Harmful To Children And Others At School (Recommended Reading, 1/14/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:36:52 -0800

Read the www.courant.com article here, 1/14/12

Deaf sign language users pick up faster on body language (Recommended Reading, 1/12/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:36:58 -0800

Read the UC Davis article here, 1/12/12

Cliff Allenby: Called out of retirement to help restructure Dept of Mental Health (Recommended Reading, 1/15/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:37:05 -0800

Read the Sacramento Bee article here, 1/15/12

U.S. Report Criticizes New York on Monitoring Care of Developmentally Disabled (Recommended Reading, 1/10/11)

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:37:13 -0800

Read the N.Y. Times article here, 1/10/12