End the Wait!
More than 9,000 people with developmental disabilities in Louisiana are waiting up to nine years for the waiver services they need now.
The 2009 Legislative Session was very difficult for people with disabilities and their families. The Executive Budget the Governor first presented to the legislature contained no additional waiver slots, no closures of developmental centers and an actual increase in the developmental centers’ budgets! After a two month legislative session, nothing had changed. No additional waiver slots were included in the budget even though the NOW Trust Fund has funds available for new slots and more than 9,000 people remain on the waiting list. No plans were made to consolidate or close developmental centers even though on average, over three people can be served from the waiting list for the average cost of supporting one person in a developmental center.
Although there were few successes for people with disabilities in the 2009 session, it is extremely important to channel your frustrations into constructive actions so we can build our advocacy strength for the future. Use this opportunity to educate our policy makers.
What you can do now if you wish to advocate for community-based services
- If you, or your child, are on the waiver waiting list, let your state legislators and Governor Jindal know that you are still waiting, how long you have been waiting, and that you/your child need services. Contact information for your Senators and Representatives.
- Building personal relationships with your legislators is vital to our future success. Visit your legislators face-to-face in their district office or invite them to visit you in your home to share your personal story.
- Write to Governor Jindal to let him know your feelings and concerns. Contact the Governor by email.
Are You Tired of Waiting?
If you are one of more than the 9,000 people waiting for a waiver slot and want to know when your number will be up contact the Louisiana Waiver Registry at 1-800-364-7828 to see where you are on the waiting list!
Get involved! Help end the wait!
It’s Time for Louisiana to Reform the System Serving People with Developmental Disabilities- Fact Sheet
Institutionalization vs. Home and Community Based Services
- Shattering Myths: Quality of Life
- Shattering Myths: Outcomes of People Leaving Institutions
- Shattering Myths: People with Intensive Needs in their Communities
End the Wait! Stories/Videos- please click here to view
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