Home > Advocacy in Action > Legislative Priorities 2009
The Olmstead Council has identified priorities and issues to be addressed in 2009. The overarching goal for 2009 is the implementation of West Virginia's Olmstead Plan. The Olmstead Council is committed to working with state officials and stakeholders to address the following priorities and issues.
The West Virginia Olmstead Plan: Building Inclusive Communities was formally endorsed by Governor Joe Manchin III through Executive Order 11-05. The Plan must be implemented to fully address the State's obligation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the U.S Supreme Court decision.
Implement the study recommendations issued by the Public Consulting Group through the "Money Follows the Person and Rebalancing Long Term Care Study" report. At least forty-three (43) states across the country are implementing MFP and Rebalancing initiatives. It is critical to utilize existing funding in a more effective and efficient manner to implement the Olmstead Plan.
Develop or enhance services to support people who are under-served or un-served throughout West Virginia. This includes people with support needs for: mental illness, substance abuse, traumatic brain injury, physical disability, developmental disability, ventilator dependency, and co-occurring disabilities.
Waiting lists for home and community-based services severely diminish an individual's independence and freedom to remain at home.
The Aged and Disabled Waiver Program does not provide a realistic and functional alternative to nursing facility care.
The Transition Navigator Program needs to be expanded to cover all 55 counties in West Virginia. This program addresses several components of the Olmstead Plan.
Olmstead Council
State Capitol Complex
Building 6, Room 850
Charleston, West Virginia 25305
304-558-3287 or 866-761-4628
