The bill establishes that public and governmental entities (entities)
shall administer services, programs, and activities in the most integrated setting that is appropriate to the needs of individuals with disabilities. The bill establishes when entities are required to provide home- and community-based services (services) to individuals with disabilities.
If an entity cuts services, the entity shall assess whether the service cut increases the risk of institutionalization for individuals receiving services. If so, the entity must develop a plan to reduce that risk.
The bill directs the department of health care policy and financing
to develop a comprehensive community integration plan (plan) for implementing its obligation to provide individuals with disabilities with opportunities to live, work, and be served in integrated settings. The plan must be reviewed and updated every 3 years.
An entity is not required to comply with the provisions of the bill
if it can establish that doing so would require a fundamental alteration of its program, services, or activities.
