Extends for two years the requirement for OPWDD to give a 90-day notice to the Senate, Assembly, and labor organizations of any closures or transfer of a state operated individualized residential alternative.
Summary
Bill S04845 aims to amend the mental hygiene law concerning the closure or transfer of state-operated individualized residential alternatives. Specifically, it extends the requirement for the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to provide a 90-day notice to the Senate, Assembly, and relevant labor organizations prior to any such closure or transfer. This extension is set for an additional two years, pushing the expiration date of the current requirement from March 31, 2026, to March 31, 2028.
Impact
The bill's passage will reinforce the existing protocol for notifying legislative bodies and labor organizations about changes to state-operated residential facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities. This could enhance oversight and allow for better planning and support for affected residents and their families, thereby impacting state laws related to mental hygiene and disability services.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be supportive, as it aims to protect the rights and welfare of individuals residing in state-operated facilities. However, there may be some concerns regarding the operational implications for OPWDD and the potential delays in implementing necessary changes to residential services.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from stakeholders who argue about the operational burden this extended notice period places on the OPWDD, potentially hindering their ability to respond swiftly to changing needs. Conversely, advocates for individuals with developmental disabilities emphasize the importance of transparency and adequate notice to ensure that residents and their families can prepare for any transitions.
Extends the effectiveness of the requirement that upon the closure or transfer of a state-operated individualized residential alternative the commissioner of the office for people with developmental disabilities shall provide appropriate and timely notification to the temporary president of the senate, the speaker of the assembly, and appropriate representatives of impacted labor organizations, and shall make reasonable efforts to inform the affected workforce, residents and family members of the proposed closure or transfer plan.
Provides that an adult individual who has transferred into the OPWDD system of care from a transitional care placement at an out-of-state or in-state residential school or adult program associated with a residential school, and whose health, safety, or welfare are being adversely affected in the OPWDD system of care, is allowed to return to their prior transitional care placement, funded by OPWDD, under certain conditions.
Provides that an adult individual who has transferred into the OPWDD system of care from a transitional care placement at an out-of-state or in-state residential school or adult program associated with a residential school, and whose health, safety, or welfare are being adversely affected in the OPWDD system of care, is allowed to return to their prior transitional care placement, funded by OPWDD, under certain conditions.