SCS/SB 957 - This act expands the ability of SB 40 boards to fund sheltered workshops, residence facilities, and other services or programs for persons with developmental disabilities. This act provides a new definition for "handicapped person" with a detailed description of developmental disabilities.

Currently, Section 205.968 allows a SB 40 board to establish and operate a sheltered workshop, residence facilities, and related services. New language removes the reference to "related services" and replaces it with "any other services or programs for persons with developmental disabilities and their families". Boards may conduct needs assessments and may provide funds as deemed appropriate. The assessment must allow for input from persons with developmental disabilities and their families.

Section 205.969 currently allows the board to provide a sheltered workshop and residential program. The new language allowing the board to provide any other services or programs has been deleted.

Section 205.970 currently allows the board to set rules for the board's services and programs. New language provides that rules for admission to sheltered workshops will be established by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Finally, Section 205.971 modifies the ballot language which is used to approve the establishment of sheltered workshops and residence facilities. "Related services" are replaced in the ballot language by "other services or programs for persons with developmental disabilities and their families".

This act is substantially similar to HB 1561 (2000).
ERIN MOTLEY

SA 1 - REMOVES THE NEW DEFINITION OF "DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY" AND RETURNS TO THE DEFINITIONS OF "DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY" AND "HANDICAPPED PERSON" AS THEY EXIST IN CURRENT LAW.