[Headline] Why Now is the Time to Renew Our Push for
MiCASSA and Money Follows the Person

Many people with significant disabilities cannot live without supports, like attendant services.

Terri Schiavo's story brought into focus, in an extreme way, the reality of this need. It pointed a huge spotlight on this issue. Though it has quieted down for now, this issue is simmering in the background.

The visceral /but reaction of many in the disability community to Terri's story was a feeling of being deeply threatened. The fear comes from their current need for this support, or anticipation that they will need such supports in the future, combined with a sense that the general mood is to diminish just these types of supports. As one past leader of our nation has said: the cheapest way to serve is euthanasia.

Many politicians who spoke in sup-port for Terri's life have not shown the same support for the services that would allow people with disabilities to live with dignity in their communities.

Others who failed to see the importance of the value of Terri's life, sometimes even life with a disability in general, have also not shown strong support for legislation supporting us in the community.

The lack of understanding on both sides is chilling, to say the least. Congress is back in session but will be back in their

[Subheading] MiCASSA S 401 and HR 910: Money Follows the Person - S 528

Created on

Tuesday 23 July 2013

Posted on

Friday 4 December 2020

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