SB 449 - This act requires on or before December 31, 2013, the Department of Mental Health to submit a plan for transitioning the provision of services for residents of state developmental disabilities facilities, including intermediate care facilities for the mentally retarded, to the most integrated settings appropriate to their needs. Upon completion, the plan shall be submitted to the Governor, the Senate Appropriations Committee, the House Health, Mental Health and Social Services Appropriations Committee, the House Budget Committee and the Developmental Disabilities Advisory Council. While developing the plan, the department shall contract with a reputable independent third party to conduct a study and develop a plan identifying mechanisms to serve persons currently living in state institutions in the community. The plan shall also make certain recommendations and identify items as outlined in this act including containing recommendations for each resident identifying:
(1) Services in the most integrated setting appropriate for each resident in the community of his or her choice;
(2) The cost of providing necessary services in community settings for each individual;
(3) Barriers that prohibit the individual from being served in the community; and
(4) A timetable for making the transition.
The plan shall include recommendations for permanent full time state employees working at such facilities and alternative uses for state-owned facility property. The plan shall also include a proposed schedule for implementation of the plan with the goal of shifting provision of services to the community for every resident by January 1, 2019.
All long term admissions to state run intermediate care facilities for the mentally retarded shall cease upon the effective date of this act. Any plans started after August 28, 2012, to build or renovate state-owned facilities shall not be implemented, entered into contract to construct, or put out for bid until the completion of the plan.
This act is identical to SB 56 (2011).
ADRIANE CROUSE