Debate Over Institutions Flares As Feds Seek Comment - Disability Scoop

By Shaun Heasley

A government agency’s proposal to “eliminate congregate care” for people with disabilities is stirring strong reaction from advocates on both sides of the debate over institutions.

The issue came to the forefront as the Administration on Developmental Disabilities works to finalize a five-year strategic plan.

The federal agency plays an influential role over the state councils on developmental disabilities and the protection and advocacy organizations throughout the country in addition to other programs benefiting Americans with disabilities.

After holding listening sessions in five cities, the agency drew up a list of priorities — touching on everything from access to competitive employment to strengthening family support — which will be used to establish the final plan.

But a recommendation to support closing the nation’s remaining institutional care facilities seems to be evoking the greatest response in the final days of an online public comment period, which ends Friday.
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Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Voting Access Annual Report

Proposed Projects

Title: Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Voting Access Annual Report.
OMB No.: 0970-0327.

Description: This is a revision to include the application for the previously cleared Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Annual Report, Payments to States and Units of Local Government, 42 U.S.C. 15421.

The Help America Vote Act (HAVA) application to States and Units of Local Government is required by federal statute and regulation. Each State or Unit of Local Government must prepare an application to receive funds under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA), Public Law 107-252, Title II, Subtitle D, Part 2, Sections 261 to 265, Payments to States and Units of Local Government to Assure Access for Individuals
with Disabilities (42 U.S.C. 15421-25). The application is provided in writing to the Administration for Children and Families, Administration on Developmental Disabilities.

An annual report is required by Federal statute (the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) of 2002, Public Law 107-252, Section 261, Payments to States and Units of Local Government, 42 U.S.C. 15421). Each State or Unit of Local Government must prepare and submit an annual report at the end of every fiscal year. The report addresses the activities conducted with the funds provided during the year. The information collected from the annual report will be aggregated into an annual profile of how States have utilized the funds and establish best practices for election officials. It will also provide an overview of the State election goals and accomplishments and permit the Administration on Developmental Disabilities to track voting progress to monitor grant activities.