The impact of the U.S. Supreme Court decision Olmstead v. L.C. continues to generate concerns from family members, caregivers, community organizations and individuals with developmental disabilities throughout the transition process into more integrated work settings. As a result, the Assembly Minority Task Force on Protecting the Rights of People with Developmental Disabilities has been created to evaluate the effectiveness of current transition plans for those in sheltered workshops, developmental centers, and community homes and to ensure that the input and desires of people with developmental disabilities are being considered.

The task force will be hosting regional forums across the state in an effort to better address the current transition plans and other important issues facing individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. This forum, the third in a series of statewide events, will take place on Monday, April 18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Corning-Painted Post High School Cafeteria, 201 Cantigney St., Corning.

“I am looking forward to listening to the thoughts and concerns of our local community on the best ways to improve programs and services for those with developmental disabilities,” said Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning). “This task force will ultimately help us as lawmakers develop solutions to better support the rights of people with developmental disabilities and improve their quality of life.”

“Individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, caregivers and professionals have expressed real concerns with changes to services and programs across the state,” said Assemblyman Christopher S. Friend (R,C,I-Big Flats). “As legislators, we have a responsibility to ensure that the rights of those with developmental disabilities are being considered. I am proud to be part of this task force event, which will provide an opportunity to give every stakeholder a voice on these critical concerns.”

Representatives from non-profit organizations and facilities, community leaders and mental health experts have been invited to attend and provide testimony. The task force is also encouraging individuals with disabilities and their families to share their firsthand experiences as a result of the Olmstead Decision.

“A concerted, statewide effort to improve services for those with developmental disabilities is the only way to make certain every New Yorker is fairly represented,” said Assemblyman Clifford W. Crouch (R-Bainbridge), task force chairman. “No New Yorker should be marginalized, and it is our job to make sure that never happens. Together, we will address the concerns of those with developmental disabilities and aggressively tackle those concerns head-on.”

For more information on the task force, please contact the Assembly Minority Office of Public Affairs at 518-455-5073.