The NC House is Also in Session Now

Just in case you are curious..we are sitting in the Senate Chamber but over in the House the same events are taking place.  Both chamber floors are filled with elected officials, their families, and friends.  And yes the media is packed into the corners of the room.

With a Hit of a Gavel

The North Carolina General Assembly today gaveled in their 2009 session. This day is full of pomp and circumstance.  We are blogging live right now from the NC Senate Chamber as the senators take their oath of office.  Lt. Governor Walter Dalton is now President of the Senate and will be directing the events today.

Here's a quick run down on what has happened so far.  Lieutenant Governor Dalton did a welcome to the guests and Senators.  

Then fourth grader Katherine Fritsch sang an amazingly moving rendition of our national anthem. It was met with great applause from the Senators and visitors to the chamber.

The Senators then rose to take their oath which was administered by the Honorable Patricia Timmons-Goodson, Associate Justice Supreme Court of North Carolina.

The Senators have been sworn in now and Lt. Governor Dalton has declared a quorum.

Now we begin the process of voting on Senate leaders.

The Arc of North Carolina Twitters!

The Arc of North Carolina will begin to Twitter on Wednesday, January 28th and we want you to follow us as we Twitter the opening of session!

Here is how you can follow us. Head on over to www.twitter.com and open an account. Then search for thearcnc.  You can set your account to receive our Twitter posting (tweets) on either your email, your phone, or both.

Please note that if you opt for your phone usual text charges will apply. (It says this when you register for the service.)

We will be using Twitter to let you know about blog updates, cool happenings at the General Assembly and for important action alerts.  

Twitter will join this blog and our Facebook fan page as we continue to use technology to reach out to our community.

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina:

We are two days away from the start of the new legislative session. We will be there to follow all of the events. Session opens on Wednesday at 12:00pm.
One interesting meeting this week will be on Tuesday, January 27th when the Joint Legislative Program Evaluation Oversight Committee meets to hear the study on North Carolina's education system structure.

This week:

Monday, Jan. 26
2 p.m. | The Joint Study Committee on Housing meets, 1124 LB.
2 p.m. | The Joint Urban Growth and Infrastructure Issues Committee meets, 414 LOB.
3 p.m. | The House Select Committee on a Comprehensive Rail Service Plan meets, 1228 LB.

Tuesday, Jan. 27
9:30 a.m. | The Revenue Laws Study Committee meets, 1228 LB.
10 a.m. | The House Select Committee on High Speed Internet in Rural Areas Committee, 544 LOB.
1 p.m. | The Joint Legislative Program Evaluation Oversight Committee meets, 544 LOB.
2 p.m. | The Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Information Systems meets, 421 LOB.

Wednesday, Jan. 28
Noon | The legislative session convenes, House and Senate Chambers.

Federal:

Two key topics on the Hill this week are the economic stimulus bill and TARP.  We will be posting later more details on the economic stimulus bill and how it may affect people with disabilities.

Dispatch from Jones St: Transportation Secretary Addresses Committee

The Transportation Committee will meet today at 10:00 am. The agenda includes an introduction and comments by Secretary of Transportation Gene Conti. We will be at this meeting to hear what he has to say. O

Hill Report: Economic Stimulus and SCHIP

Economic Recovery Legislation

The House Democratic leadership unveiled the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, an $825 billion package which includes $550 billion in spending and $275 billion in tax cuts. The legislation includes many increases in disability related programs. A summary is included in the action alert above.

We will be posting a breakdown of the disability related money later today.

Health Care

By a vote of 289-139, the House of Representatives passed the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (H.R. 2), legislation to reauthorize the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) through FY 2013. It expands the program to cover approximately 4 million more children than currently covered. The bill includes a provision that would allow states to waive the federally mandated five-year waiting period for legal immigrants to receive SCHIP benefits. By vote of 12-7, the Senate Finance Committee approved a similar bill.


North Carolina has been working to expand our SCHIP program to cover more children but had been stopped due to the lack of support from the former administration. Former President Bush vetoed the expansion of SCHIP multiple times during the 110th Congress.

Hill Report: President Obama's Cabinet Update Senator Clinton

Senator Clinton was confirmed late this afternoon as the new Secretary of State. Vote was 94 -2.

Dispatch from Jones St: Seven Days and Counting

The North Carolina General Assembly will be back in session in just seven days. There are some serious issues facing the 170 elected officials who will be sworn in on January 28, 2009.

There is real concern about the health and stability of the State Health Plan. Many news outlets are reporting that to keep the health plan "healthy" we will need to see a $300 million dollar infusion.

Then there is Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse needs. Our state has watched people with developmental disabilities in the south east loose all of their supports and services. This has sent families into crisis. We have witnessed two LMEs falter.

There is a real need to stabalize these systems and to promote and expand community based services for all three populations served under the Division of MH, DD, SA.

The next big issue is going to be affordable housing. We need more of it. There is a shortage of it. Investing in housing options is an economic stimulus plan.

Last but not least is addressing the dropout rates of students with disabilities in our public school system.

Lots to do and not a lot of money to do it with. Still these are the times of great leadership and innovation. Let's get to work.

Hill Report: Regulations on Hold

First order of business was to freeze all of the former President Bush's executive orders for 120 days as they are now under review by President Obama's team.

Hill Report: President Obama's Cabinet Update

The members were confirmed by unanimous vote. They were: Steven Chu (Energy), Arne Duncan (Education), Janet Napolitano (Homeland security), Ken Salazar (Interior), Eric Shinseki (Veterans Affairs), Tom Vilsack (Agriculture).

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina:
We are just eight days away from beginning the new legislative session. We will be both blogging and twittering the opening day ceremonies. More about that later. But for now here is the weeks schedule:

Tuesday, Jan 20
There are no meeting scheduled.


Wednesday, Jan. 21
9 a.m. | The Justus Warren Heart Disease & Stroke Prevention - Prevention Subcommittee meets, 1124 LB.
9 a.m. | The Justus Warren Heart Disease & Stroke Prevention - Management Subcommittee meets, 1228 LB.
9 a.m. | The Justus Warren Heart Disease & Stroke Prevention - Public Awareness Subcommittee meets, 1425 LB.
11:30 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Commission on Dropout Prevention and High School Graduation meets, 643 LOB.
2 p.m. | The Joint Select Committee on Economic Development Incentives meets, 1228 LB.


Thursday, Jan. 22
9:30 a.m. | The Environmental Review Commission meets, 544 LOB.
10 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Transportation Oversight Committee meets, 1228 LB.
1 p.m. | The House Select Committee on Sex Offender Issues meets, 1228 LB.

Today is the day! Join us as we watch TV!

Today is the historical culmination of two years of election news. Today President Elect Barack Obama becomes President Obama. This is the largest crowd for an inauguration. This is the truly shaping up to be the people's inauguration and believe me when I tell you the world is watching.

This is also shaping up to be the most accessible inauguration. The President Elect Barack Obama has already addressed the needs of people with disabilities in his speech on election night, on the first whistle stop on his train tour and in his campaign platform.

We will be watching all the major channels and we will be reading Twitter feeds from Ryan Beckwith (Under the Dome) who is now in DC!

We will be bringing you our comments on our Election 2008 blog. Join us there starting at 10:00am this morning!

The Arc of NC Policy Blog: MLK Day

The Arc of NC Policy Blog will not be updated on Monday, January 19th in honor of MLK Day.

On Tuesday, January 20th we will be blogging the inauguration on our sister blog, The Arc of NC Election 2008.

Second Study Meeting Today For Capital Procedures

Today this study commission will meet again to discuss exempting people with severe profound mental illness  and mental disabilities from receiving the death penalty in capital cases.  The discussion on Tuesday included testimony from Dr. James Ellis who has worked on this issue for many years. 

Action Alert: Email Your Congressional Representative and Senators Today

Take Action!  Ask Congress to Include Disability Programs in the Economic Recovery Plan


People with disabilities will help to put money back into the economy

Background

The U.S. economy is in crisis. So are most state budgets. Currently North Carolina is looking at a $2 billion dollar deficit as we begin the 2009 legislative session.


Congress and the Obama Administration are in the process of developing an $800 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan. Parts of this plan can help states maintain disability services and other parts directly help people with disabilities.


President-elect Obama's key criteria for the economic recovery bill are to create jobs and put money into the hands of people who are likely to spend it. Investments in programs and services that help people with disabilities can play an important role in putting money back into the economy through:

1) Temporary assistance to help states provide health care and long term services and supports. All Medicaid stakeholders are seeking a temporary increase in the Medicaid Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP), the federal government's share of Medicaid spending. A temporary increased FMAP will assist states in addressing their budget gaps caused by the economic downturn. These state budget crises are resulting in significant cuts in services and supports for people with disabilities. We must ensure that the economic recovery package includes an FMAP increase of at least $100 billion over two years.

2) A one time cash payment to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries. There are more than 7 million poor people who are elderly and/or have disabilities who receive SSI. People who rely on SSI are among the poorest in the country, subsisting on cash benefits averaging $477 a month. Providing these beneficiaries with an extra monthly payment is being considered as part of the recovery plan. Because these beneficiaries are so poor they are very likely to spend the money quickly.

3) Strengthening employment programs. People with disabilities continue to experience extremely high rates of unemployment. The economic recovery plan should ensure that when jobs are created people with disabilities benefit through enforcement of the affirmative action provisions of Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. It should also include significant investments in the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and Supported Employment State Grant programs. New funding must also focus on improving services for youth who are transitioning from special education to work.

4) Requiring ADA accessibility compliance in school construction projects. The recovery plan presently includes funding for school repair, renovation and construction. It is imperative that any schools that receive such funds are required to make schools accessible for students with disabilities.


Status of the Economic Recovery Plan

January 15, 2009 - The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan is expected to be introduced.
Early February, 2009 - The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan is expected to be sent to President Obama for his signature.

Take Action:

Email your Representative and our state Senators today!  

For sample language please visit The Arc of the US Capwiz site.

New Study Commission for Today: Capital Procedures Study Commission

There will be a new study commission starting today at 12:30pm.  This study commission will begin the discussion on sentencing people with severe mental deficiencies to the death penalty.

The proposed legislation would cover people with severe and profound mental illness, brain injury and in some cases Autism.  The proposed legislation would not remove the option of life in prison for the convicted but would remove the sentence of death.  This legislation is very similar to the Mental Retardation Death Penalty Exemption legislation that passed several sessions ago.

We will be covering this commission meeting today.

Legislative Oversight Committee Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities/Substance Abuse Thursday Agenda

AGENDA

Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on 

Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services 

January 14, 2009, 10:00 A.M.; Room 643, Legislative Office Building 

Representative Verla Insko, Co-Chair, Presiding 

1. Greetings and Opening Comments 10:00
Senator Martin Nesbitt, Co-Chair
Representative Verla Insko, Co-Chair

2. Remarks from Newly-Appointed DHHS Secretary 10:00 – 10:10
Lanier Cansler, Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services

3. Final Report of the Taskforce on Substance Abuse Services 10:10 – 11:30
Pam Silberman, JD, DrPH, President & CEO, North Carolina Institute of Medicine

4. Reporting Deaths in State Facilities; Rulemaking Process 11:30 – 12:00
John R. Corne, Chairman, Commission on MHDDSA

5. Outcomes for Previously Hospitalized Consumers 12:00 – 12:30
Carol Ripple, Ph.D., Program Evaluation Division


LUNCH 12:30 – 1:30

6. Local Management Entities 1:30 – 2:30
a. Pathways
Rhett Melton, Area Director
b. Orange Person Chatham
Judy Truitt, Area Director
c. The Beacon Center
Karen Salacki, Area Director

7. Expenditure of Service Dollars 2:30 – 2:45
Leza Wainwright, Director, Division of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS

8. State Psychiatric Hospital Update 2:45 – 3:00
Dr. Jim Osberg, Chief, State Operated Services
Division of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS

9. Update on DHHS Involuntary Commitment Workgroup 3:00– 3:15
Flo Stein, Chief, Community Policy Management

ADJOURN 3:30

Dave Richard, Executive Director of The Arc of North Carolina-Letter to the Editor News and Observer

Cansler Fits Criteria

Your Jan. 6 article and Jan. 8 editorial concerning the appointment of Lanier Cansler as secretary of DHHS raised questions focused on his work as a lobbyist for clients doing business with the state. Unfortunately, the article and editorial missed the point that he is a highly qualified leader who has the experience both as an elected and appointed public official to manage the massive DHHS during highly challenging times.
The Arc of NC is an advocacy and service organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

You implied that The Arc hired Cansler as a lobbyist, which is misleading. The Arc hired Cansler as a consultant to help us develop a more progressive, cost-effective method of supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. We hired his firm for its expertise in fiscal and systems management, not for its lobbying expertise. Certainly this is the type of understanding and knowledge North Carolina citizens with developmental disabilities deserve.

We appreciate and respect the role of the press in bringing forth concerns about conflicts but at the same time encourage all concerned to see this as an opportunity for a fresh start. North Carolina citizens with disabilities and all who are served through DHHS need strong competent leadership. Cansler fits these criteria.

Dave Richard

Executive director, The Arc of North Carolina, Raleigh

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina:

Governor Bev Perdue starts her first day as our state's executive today. First up is the swearing in of her cabinet followed by a series of executive orders. Her first term will start as our state is dealing with serious budget concerns and as the federal government is debating a comprehensive economic stimulus package.

Here are some suggestions for what our state may want to look at in that economic stimulus package: increase in Medicaid through FMAP, increase in IDEA to ensure a high quality educational experience for students with disabilities, job incentives for businesses to hire people with disabilities and get us back to work, and more support for affordable housing options.

The General Assembly is also back at work. There are a series of meetings this week including on Wednesday another Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, Substance Abuse Legislative Oversight Committee meeting.

Here they are:

Monday, Jan. 12
10 a.m. | The Child Fatality Task Force meets, 1228 LB.
2 p.m. | The Joint Legislative Commission on Seafood and Aquaculture meets, 544 LOB.

Tuesday, Jan. 13
10 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Corrections, Crime Control and Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee meets, 643 LOB.
10 a.m. | The Legislative Commission on Global Climate Change meets, 1228 LB.
10 a.m. | The Joint Select Committee on Economic Development Incentives meets, 544 LOB.
12:30 p.m.| The Joint Select Committee on Capital Trial, Sentencing, and Post Conviction Procedures for Persons Who Suffer Severe Mental Disabilities Committee meets 421 LOB.

Wednesday, Jan. 14
9 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee meets, 544 LOB.
10 a.m. | The Legislative Study Commission on Children and Youth meets, 643 LOB.
10 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse meets, 643 LOB.
1 p.m. | The House Select Committee on a Comprehensive Rail Service Plan for NC meets, 1228 LB.

Thursday, Jan. 15
9:30 a.m. | The Environmental Review Commission meets, 643 LOB.
10 a.m. | The Joint Select Committee on Mandatory Boating Safety Education meets, 415 LOB.
10 a.m. | The House Study Committee on Unbanked and Underbanked Consumers meets, 1425 LB.
10 a.m. | The North Carolina Study Commission on Aging meets, 544 LOB.
1 p.m. | The North Carolina National Guard Pension Fund Study Commission meets, 1425 LB.
2 p.m. | The Joint Select Committee on Capital Trial, Sentencing, and Post Conviction Procedures for Persons Who Suffer Severe Mental Disabilities Committee meets 421 LOB.

Friday, Jan. 16
10 a.m. | The Legislative Study Commission on Poverty Reduction and Economic Recovery meets, 643 LOB.

Deputy Secretary of DHHS Announced

Allen Feezor has been named the new Deputy Secretary of HHS. Some of us worked with Allen in the early 1990s when he was the Deputy Insurance Commissioner and was the first administrator of the State Health Plan until a permanent administrator was found. He was very helpful in instituting a parity mental health benefit in the plan.


Special Thanks to Sally Cameron for this information.

More News Coverage on the Choice of Lanier Cansler as Secretary of DHHS

The News and Observer has written an article on the choice of Lanier Cansler as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.

There is also a good video of the announcement on WRAL.

More Announcements from Governor-elect Bev Perdue

Today Governor-elect Bev Perdue completed her announcements regarding her cabinet choices.
Here are the final picks:

Revenue: Ken Lay, a marketing executive with Bank of America in Charlotte.

Environment: Dee Freeman, former executive director of the Triangle J Council of Governments.

Administration: Britt Cobb, the only member of Gov. Mike Easley's cabinet to keep his job.


As always we encourage you to visit Under the Dome for more information.

North Carolina Secretary of DHHS-Lanier Cansler

Today Governor-elect Bev Perdue announced that the new Secretary of the Departments of Health and Human Services is Lanier Cansler. Mr. Cansler is a former legislator and the former deputy secretary of DHHS. He also ran a consulting and lobbying firm.

Read more about the appointment at Under the Dome.

Lt. Governor-elect Walter Dalton Announces His Staff

Under the Dome is reporting that Lt. Governor-elect Walter Dalton has announced his staff. It is a very strong and well skilled staff and should provide the Lt. Governor-elect Dalton with the expertise required during this transition. Here is the list.

Caroline Valand will be chief of staff.
Kimberly Reynolds will be deputy chief of staff.
Avery Staley will serve as counsel.
Cynthia O’Neal will be director of external affairs.
Mike McLaughlin will be the chief policy analyst.
Sara Lang will be the communications director.


Read more about this announcement at Under the Dome.

The Hill Update: 111th Congress Starts Today

Today the 111th Congress will begin at 12 noon with the formal swearing in. From North Carolina Kay Hagan will become our junior Senator and Larry Kissell will become our newest Congressman. WRAL will cover all the pomp live.

Not all the Senate will be seated today as we continue to wait on the Illinois situation and the Minnesota race.

First job up for this Congress? The economic stimulus bill. We will be following this federal initiative closely to see what numbers are reflected in the FMAP increase.

More Announcements Expected-Governor-elect Perdue's Cabinet

The roll out of cabinet picks is definitely underway. There are three positions left to fill and including the Secretary of Health and Human Services. We are hearing rumors that there will be a 3:00pm press conference today and that the announcement will include the new Secretary of Health and Human Services.

We will monitor the news and media sites and will report back with whatever we find.

Governor-elect Perdue Announces the Following Cabinet Members, No HHS Announcement

Governor-elect Bev Perdue announced the following cabinet positions today at an 11:30am press conference.
Department of Transportation: Gene Conti
Department of Commerce: Keith Crisco
Department of Cultural resources: Linda Carlisle
Employment Security Commission: Moses Carey

Head over to WRAL to read more about these new cabinet appointees.

News Update: Under the Dome Reports Governor-elect Bev Perdue Announcements

Under the Dome is reporting that Governor-elect Bev Perdue will have a press conference at 11:30am to make more announcements regarding her cabinet choices.

5 Days to Governor-elect Perdue Inauguration and the Wait Continues

The countdown to the inauguration is on. We have five days until Governor-elect Bev Perdue takes the oath of office as Governor and becomes the first woman governor of North Carolina.

While we await this historic moment, our focus is on the announcement of cabinet members.  Last week she announced crime control and public safety, juvenile justice and corrections.  There is no update yet on when the announcement of Secretary of Health and Human Services will happen.  We will be monitoring the media through out the day and will report on anything we hear right on this blog.

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina:

Governor-elect Perdue Cabinet Watch:

On Friday Governor-elect Bev Perdue announced three cabinet positions. We are watching to see if the Secretary of Health and Human Services is up next on the agenda.

When we find out we will let you know.

Governor-Elect Perdue Inauguration:

On Saturday, January 10th the citizens of North Carolina will witness the historic swearing in of the first woman governor.  We will be blogging the event live here. To read all about the multiple celebrations we invite you to visit Governor-elect Perdue's website.

General Assembly Update:

We are counting down to the start of session.  There are multiple committee meetings this week and many will be rolling out their proposals.  We are collecting all the information and will have it for you in our pre-session outlook.

Here are the meetings for the week:

Monday, Jan. 5
10 a.m. | The Child Fatality Task Force - Intentional Death Committee meets, 1228 LB.
1 p.m. | The Child Fatality Task Force - Perinatal Health Committee meets, 1228 LB.

Tuesday, Jan. 6
10 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Study Commission on Municipal Annexation meets, 643 LOB.

Wednesday, Jan. 7
9:30 a.m. | The Revenue Laws Study Committee meets, 544 LOB.
10 a.m. | The Legislative Study Commission on Children and Youth meets, 1027 LB.
The Child Fatality Task Force - Unintentional Death (Drivers Education) Committee meets, 1124 LB.

Thursday, Jan. 8
3 p.m. | The Agency Review Subcommittee of the Joint Legislative Committee on Domestic Violence meets, 415 LOB.

Friday, Jan. 9
10 a.m. | The Partition Sales Study Committee meets, 421 LOB.

WRAL and News and Observer Report Three of Perdue's Cabinet Choices

At 2:00pm today Governor-elect Bev Perdue announced her choices to head the Department of Correction, the Department of Crime Control and Public Safety and the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.

Here are her picks:
Department of Correction- Al Keller
Department of Crime Control and Public Safety - Reuben Young
Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention - Linda Hayes

Want to read more about the choices both WRAL and the News and Observer have details.

So....that means we are still waiting on the person chosen to run the Department of Health and Human Services.

News and Observer is Reporting Announcements Today

The News and Observer is reporting that Governor-elect Bev Perdue will make key cabinet announcements today at 2:00pm.  We will be following this story as it unfolds.

High Risk Insurance Pool - Enrollment Starts

To learn more about the High Risk Insurance Pool or to find out about enrollment please visit this site.

From the Associated Press:

High Risk Pool
A state-sponsored insurance pool created to offer coverage to the riskiest patients started this week, and administrators are seeking to enroll more residents who have been pushed out of the private market. Only about 500 residents since October have applied for the North Carolina Health Insurance Risk Pool, with a couple hundred approved for coverage. But the program's executive director Michael Keough said enrollments have been accelerating. "These are tough times," Keough said. "People are out of work. People are doing what they can to survive. This is a particularly timely thing - a godsend for people who need it." Officials initially projected that some 14,000 people would have the insurance 10 years from now and up to 4,000 people would join the first year. Keough said he thinks up to 180,000 people would be eligible in the state.
People can qualify if they don't have employer coverage and can't get private insurance without paying an exorbitant amount. It's a plan targeted particularly for those with high-risk health conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or hemophilia. Premiums are set at about 150 percent to 200 percent of a healthy person's private insurance. The state subsidizes the program from a few sources, mostly a tax on health insurance premiums and an annual cash withdrawal from the State Health Plan for public service workers. It's starting operations with a $5 million grant from Health and Wellness Trust Fund. North Carolina lawmakers approved the health insurance pool in 2007. It will only cover a small portion of the estimated 1.4 million people in North Carolina who are uninsured. About three dozen other states already offer such plans. (Mike Baker, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, 12/30/08).

The Wait Continues

Well, we are seven days away from Governor-elect Bev Perdue's inaugural ball and eight days away from when she takes the oath of office and we are still waiting to hear who will take the helm as Secretary of Health and Human Services.

We will be checking news feeds today and hopefully will hear something soon.

Happy New Year!

We want to wish everyone a very Happy and safe New Year!!  The Arc of North Carolina Policy blog will be celebrating with friends and family the next two days.  We will be back to our normal posting schedule on Friday, January 2.

(If however we get the news about the new NC Secretary of HHS...we will take a break from our Holiday celebration and post about it!)

President-elect Obama's Policy Plan for Americans with Disabilities

Because it is always good to have a plan. Here is President-elect Obama's policy plan that addresses many of the issues facing Americans with Disabilities.

Still waiting...here is more reading

The News and Observer Under the Dome has this great read giving you the bio and campaign wrap up on Governor-elect Bev Perdue. Enjoy the read.

While we wait for Governor-elect Perdue's announcements...some reading material....

Good morning folks.  Still no word on if today is the day that Governor-elect Perdue will announce her cabinet. My guess is no.

So while we wait I thought we would turn our focus to other inaugural excitement, like maybe President-elect Obama's inauguration. This historic event will take place in Washington, DC with multiple events, balls, and of course a parade.  If you had been reading our Election 2008 coverage we posted information on the disability policy plans of both Senator McCain and Senator Obama.  So as we get ready for a new president to take the oath we thought you might want to read Obama's plan again.  Here it is, enjoy!

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina:

All ears are on the announcement of the Governor-elect's cabinet.  Meanwhile at the General Assembly all is quiet.  Committee meetings are not scheduled until the week of January 5th.  

Federal:

US Congress is on holiday break.  The Obama transition team is still at work and preparation for the inauguration are underway.

When Congress returns on January 6th it will not be business as usual. Normally they do the formal swearing ins and then break.  This year they will get down to business.  An economic stimulus plan is first on the agenda with a timeline of being ready for the signature of the new president shortly after he takes office.

Governors are actively putting forth their wish list for how the feds can help with economically helping struggling states.  Included on this wish list are infrastructure money, jobs and Medicaid help.

We will keep you up to date on the happenings and how it will affect our states budget shortfall.

No Announcements Today on Cabinet

Under The Dome is reporting that Governor-elect Perdue will not be making any cabinet announcements today or tomorrow. This is according to statement by David Kochman a spokesperson for Governor-elect Bev Perdue.

Check out Under The Dome.

Waiting on the Announcements

On January 10, 2009 Governor-elect Bev Perdue will take the oath of office and make history as the first woman governor of the state of North Carolina.  As exciting as this is, the real excitement this week is the wait for the announcement of secretary of Health and Human Services.

Who will the pick be? What will be the plan to address the state wide needs of people with developmental and cognitive disabilities? Will the new Governor be hands on?  Lots of questions but few answers.

The rumor mill is churning and we are constantly checking the major North Carolina news sites.  When we know something for sure...you will too.

We Wish You a Very Happy Holiday Season

Thanks for reading the blog.  We will be taking a vacation break to spend time with our family and friends and to celebrate all the joy of the Holiday Season!

We will post a blog again on Monday, December 29th!  Enjoy the holiday!

Governor-Elect Bev Perdue Transition Reports

Governor-elect Bev Perdue held multiple transition team meetings in November. Some of the topics were education, aging, transportation and mental health/developmental disabilities/substance abuse.  All of the reports are now available to the public, we encourage you to check them out at the Governor-elect Perdue website.

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina:

All is quiet here at the North Carolina General Assembly as the Holiday break is underway.  There are no committee meetings scheduled for this week.  There are some news stories however dealing with the revenue collection in our state.

The Upcoming Budget:

News and Observer is reporting that state revenue is down by 6.1 percent.  This supports the information we have been receiving in numerous committees that there will be a lot of need and not a lot of money to go around.  

New Administration:

Governor-Elect Perdue has been slowly rolling out her cabinet and her picks for key secretary positions.  There have been lots of names in the rumor mill for the Secretary of HHS but nothing yet has been confirmed.  Last report was that current Secretary Dempsey Benton would be stepping down but Chris Fitzsimon wrote on NC Policy Watch that maybe Secretary Benton may be having second thoughts.  When we know who it is, you will.

Committee Reports:

So far there have been  few  final committee reports to discuss but with session starting on January 28th we will see a big push soon. 

The Holidays:

We wish you all a very happy holiday season. We will be posting our regular scheduled blogs here starting right after the Holidays.  There will also be some new formats.  We will be keeping the Monday Quick Hits and we will be updating the Friday Wrap Up once the session starts.  Julia's Musings will return once the committee reports start up.  We will also be updating what is included in the Dispatch from Jones Street features.

We appreciate you hanging with us as the new year starts.

Federal:

Economic Stimulus

The Obama Transition team is working with Hill leaders on a new economic stimulus package that seems to grow by the week. The latest estimates put the stimulus in the range of $650 to $850 billion. Escalating unemployment, which could go as high as 9% in 2009, has served to increase the goal of saving or creating 2.5 million jobs over the next 2 years. The stimulus package, in addition to addressing employment, is expected to boost federal support to states, and pump new money into education, health care, infrastructure and energy programs. Aid to the poor and unemployed will also be part of the stimulus. The Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), in which The Arc and UCP have key leadership roles, has prepared a number of recommendations pressing for disability related program increases in the stimulus.

111th Congress

Cabinet appointments have expanded the number of interim appointments needed to achieve the full complement of Senators and Representatives in the upcoming Congress. The 111th Congress will begin work on January 6. There are now three Senate seats needing to be filled - Clinton (NY), Obama (IL) and Salazar (CO). In addition, the recount for the still undetermined Senate seat in Minnesota may not be settled until early in 2009. The House seat of Department of Labor Secretary Designate Hilda Solis (D-CA) will also need to be filled.

Health Care Reform

Representatives John Dingell (D-MI) and Henry Waxman (D-CA) have reached an agreement that will place Rep. Dingell as the lead sponsor of the national health reform legislation that the House Energy and Commerce Committee will consider next year. Dingell will be "Chairman Emeritus" and will play an integral role in the health care negotiations with Congress and with the incoming Obama Administration. This arrangement will allow the Committee to focus on two major priorities next year: health care reform and climate and energy legislation.

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina:

After a Thanksgiving break and a hectic last week, we are seeing more committees releasing their recommendations for the 2009 Legislative Session.  The final recommendations for most committees will be voted on this month.  Once we have them we will post them here.  Until then, here are a few meetings of interest for this week.

Monday, Dec. 8
The Child Fatality Taskforce - Perinatal Health Committee meets, 1228/1327 LB.

Wednesday, Dec. 10
9 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Program Evaluation Oversight Committee meets, 1027/1128 LB.

10 a.m. | The 21st Century Transportation Committee meets, 643 LOB.

1 p.m. | The Joint Legislative Transportation Oversight Committee meets, 544 LOB.

Congress:

If you watched any news programs this weekend, it is clear that the big topic in DC is how to manage the economy, jobless rates that keep increasing and the concerns that the big three auto makers are having.  The big three auto makers, Ford, Chrysler and GM are asking for billions in loans to stop them from heading into bankruptcy. As of late Friday night, news channels were reporting a possible deal.  We will keep you up to date.  We are also looking at how a future stimulus package may be shaped. 

All work in DC should wrap up around December 20th.

Today Is the MH DD SA Legislative Oversight Committee Meeting

This committee meeting is in progress right now.  The topics that directly affect people with developmental disabilities and their families will be after the lunch break.  The topics will address the developmental disability centers and the transition to the new CAP waivers.  

The meeting is running approximately thirty minutes behind schedule right now.

MH DD SA Legislative Oversight Committee: Agenda

AGENDA
Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on
Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services
November 20, 2008, 10:00 A.M.; Room 643, Legislative Office Building
Senator Martin Nesbitt, Co-Chair, Presiding

1. Greetings and Opening Comments 10:00 – 10:10

Senator Martin Nesbitt, Co-Chair
Representative Verla Insko, Co-Chair


2. Critical Measures LME Performance Matrix 10:10 – 10:30
Shealy Thompson, Ph.D., Quality Management Team Leader
Division of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS


3. Mental Health Leadership Academy Evaluation and Sample Results 10:30 – 11:15
Al Huntoon, Owner, Catalyst Consulting Services
James Johnson, Director, Urban Investment Strategies Center,
UNC Kenan Flagler School

Michael Watson, Area Director, Sandhills Center for MH/DD/SAS (LME)
Foster Norman, Area Director, Five County Mental Health Authority (LME)


4. Local Management Entities 11:15 – 12:15
a. Cumberland County Mental Health Center
Hank Debnam, Area Director

b. (Catawba-Burke) Mental Health Partners
John Hardy, Area Director

c. Onslow Carteret Behavioral Healthcare Services
Daniel M. Jones, Area Director


5. State Psychiatric Hospital Update 12:15 - 12:30
Dr. James Osberg, Chief, State Operated Services, DHHS


Lunch 12:30 – 1:30


6. Status of Items Funded in 2008 Appropriations Act 1:30 - 2:00
Leza Wainwright, Co-Director, Division of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS
Tara Larson, Acting Director, Division of Medical Assistance, DHHS
7. Supports Waiver and Comprehensive Waiver 2:00 - 2:30
Rose Burnette, Tiered Waiver Project Manager, Div. of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS


8. State Developmental Disability Centers Overview 2:30 – 3:00
Dr. James Osberg, Chief, State Operated Services, DHHS


9. Evidence Based Mental Health Treatment for Children 3:00 - 3:30
Dr. Dana Hagele, MD, MPH, Co-Director, NC Child Treatment Program


Adjourn

Tuesday Quick Hits: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina:

If you are curious, session starts January 28th.  With that clock ticking in the background the General Assembly is holding multiple meetings over the next few weeks to get its legislative proposals set to go.  The budget is still the most obvious topic.  Budget projects show  short fall between 2.7 billion and 3.5 billion.  Personally, I am thinking 3.5 billion is more likely.  So with a tight appropriation there will be a lot of legislative proposals that will lack appropriation requests.  Here is the list of what we are watching this week:

Tuesday, Nov. 18

10 a.m. | The Joint Select Committee on Arts Education meets, 1228/1327 LB.

This committee has been meeting to create a proposal that would add one art credit requirement to the North Carolina high school graduation requirements.

10 a.m. | The House Select Committee on Compensation for Victims of the Eugenics Sterilization Program meets, 1124 LB.

This committee has been hearing testimony from people who were victims of eugenics and sterilization laws in our state.  Compensation for these victims has been the focus of these meetings.

1 p.m. | The House Select Committee on a Comprehensive Rail Service Plan for North Carolina meets, 1027/1128 LB.

How do we get people from Raleigh to Durham without driving? This committee continues it work on creating a realistic and do able plan to create a comprehensive rail plan for the state. Funding is going to be a topic in all transportation meetings.

2 p.m. | The House Select Committee on the Legal Aspects of Using Lottery Proceeds for Charter School Funding meets, 1228/1327 LB.

Wednesday, Nov. 19
10 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Health Care Oversight Committee meets, 1228/1327 LB.

10 a.m. | The Legislative Study Commission on Children and Youth meets, 1027/1128 LB.

10 a.m. | The 21st Century Transportation Prioritization and Efficiency Subcommittee meets, 643 LOB.
10 am. | The 21st Century Transportation Finance Subcommittee meets, 1124 LB.
1 p.m. | The 21st Century Transportation Committee meets, 643 LOB.

Thursday, Nov. 20
10 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Mental Health meets, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse meets, 643 LOB.

1 p.m. | The House Study Committee on Unbanked and Underbanked Consumers meets, 1228/1327 LB.

GA Update: Committee Meeting Cancelled

If you are keeping track at home, the Housing Committee meeting scheduled for 2pm today has been canceled.  We will let you know when the next one is scheduled and what happens at it.

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

The Election is over and the committee meetings at the North Carolina General Assembly are back in full swing.  As November wraps up we will have a much better view of what legislation each of these committees will propose for the long session.  

North Carolina:

Monday, Nov. 10
10 a.m. | The Child Fatality Taskforce - Unintentional Death Committee meets, 1228/1327 LB.

Wednesday, Nov. 12
10 a.m. | The North Carolina Study Commission on Aging meets, 643 LOB.

Last meeting this committee received reports on the need for keeping and extending dental services for the aging and disability community.

10 a.m. | The House Select Committee on Televising Sessions meets, 1228 LB.

Last committee meeting, members received reports on how legislative sessions are televised in other states and how these models could translate to our state.  Members also received reports from local cable networks and public television discussing implementation of this program.  The Arc of North Carolina is supporting this initiative and did request to the committee that any program proposal must be fully accessible to all citizens of North Carolina.

2 p.m. | The Joint Study Committee on Housing meets, 544 LOB.

During the first committee meeting members received an overview of the Housing Trust Fund presented by the Housing Finance Agency.  Housing for people with disabilities is critical to create a successful independent transition for this community.  Accessible and affordable housing options are also in short supply.  We will be tracking this committee closely for their legislative proposals.

Thursday, Nov. 13

9 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Transportation Oversight Committee meets, 544 LOB.

Options on how to address DOT transition issues and how to improve transportation in North Carolina will be on the agenda again this time.

10 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Commission on Dropout Prevention and High School Graduation meets, 643 LOB.

This committee will again be meeting to hear presentations regarding the issue of keeping kids in school.

National:

Congress will come back in session in a week.  During the lame duck session, Congressional leadership will try to work with the Bush administration to pass a second economic stimulus plan.  Disability advocates will be working to ensure that whatever economic stimulus package is created that Medicaid and Medicare state assistance is included.  There is growing concern across our nation that more Medicaid services to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities will see severe cuts.  We will be tracking all of these national developments and will be sending out action alerts as needed.

What is Happening in DC?

During the presentation today on what is up in Washington DC, Paul Marchand Director of the Disability Policy Collaborative of The Arc and UCP Easter Seals covered the highlights of what has happened and what we might see happen.

So here we go: in the last six months the government has spent 2 trillion dollars on addressing the economic crisis.

So what is up in individual states? Well, thirty-nine states are facing a combined deficit of $40 billion dollars. Most of these states have constitutional amendments that require them to balance the budget. North Carolina is one of those states.

What is up with the federal deficit? Right now we are sitting at a federal deficit of seven trillion dollars.

So what do we think Congress is going to do next? Now that the election is over, there is a planned lame duck session that will begin in two weeks. The first thing on the agenda is to work to pass the second economic stimulus package.

What are we trying to get into this stimulus package to help our community? There will be a push to address the growing concerns in state regarding Medicaid. Lots of states are reporting that there are Medicaid services being cut, the focus of DPC’s lobbying efforts will be to work on how the Medicaid definition are written so that services can be restored.

What do we think we will be working on during the upcoming 111th Congress? Here is what President-Elect Obama will need to tackle right out of the gate. The first two major policy issue that the new administration will need to tackle is how to address the economic crisis and governmental spending. We are hearing more and more about the recession, are we in it or not in it.

So what will the 111th Congress look like? Right now the Senate has 55 Democrats, 2 Independents, 40 Republicans and three races that have not been called yet in Alaska, Georgia and Minnesota. The House will have 254 Democrats, 173 Republicans and six races that have yet to be decided.

What issues will we be discussing when the 111th Congress starts up in January? We will be looking at No Child Left Behind, Medicaid and Medicare, the DD Act, and many other issues that face people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Paul Marchand closed the session by reminding us that we need to get educated on the issues and take action. 

We at The Arc of North Carolina Policy Blog will be gearing up for both the 111th Congress and the 2009 North Carolina General Assembly by posting the issues and why they are important to you right here on the blog. We encourage you to ask questions and get involved.

The Arc of US Conference in New Mexico

Today I presented on Social Networking.  We did a great review of the power of blogs and facebook in messaging, creating a discussion and energizing advocates to be involved.  It was a great experience and the first time that I have ever presented at The Arc of US conference.  

Added bonus...since this is a policy blog, the next plenary during the conference is on policy issues and so we will be doing a little live blogging this afternoon.

Presenting Live From New Mexico

Good Morning Folks! I am live blogging from New Mexico today. We are at The Arc of the US conference. Join us for some reading!

Election 2008: Join Us As We Cover the Day

We will be updating the Election 2008 Blog as needed during the day.  This evening we will be blogging North Carolina election results and the overall National Presidential results.  We will provide a wrap up tomorrow evening of all of todays events.

Please join us today at The Arc of North Carolina Election 2008 blog.

Blogging the Results

We will be blogging the results of the National and State elections tonight.  Join us at The Arc of North Carolina Election 2008 Blog to follow all of the excitement as it happens.  

Most important, and we can not say this enough, Go Vote!!!!

Today Is Election Day! Go Vote!

Today, Tuesday November 4th voters across our nation will chose who should lead our country. People with disabilities will be heading to their polling places to cast important votes. We want you to know that you have laws that protect you in the polling places.

Here is what you need to know:

If I Have Registered to Vote and The Poll Worker Says I am NOT on the Roll:

If you are registered to vote and for whatever reason the poll workers do not find your name on the list of registered voters please ask for a provisional ballot.


VOTER ACCESS:
The North Carolina Board of Elections site states the following on Voter Accessibility for people with disabilities:

Voting Accessibility: The Laws that Protect Me As A Voter With A Disability.
North Carolina boards of elections are committed to ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG). Most polling places in the State are accessible to all voters.

Unfortunately, some localities do not have the available structures or adequate funding to alter them. Contact your county board of elections to learn more about your particular voting facility. Note the “reassignment of polling place” provision should your polling place not be accessible in the near future.

Adaptive technology and ballots in accessible media are available upon request. Contact your County Board office and make them aware of your voting needs.

When a voter with a disability appears to vote at his or her precinct on election day, he or she may take advantage of the provisions in G.S. 163-155 and G.S. 163-152(a).

REASSIGNMENT OF POLLING PLACE:

If a disabled voter does not wish to vote curbside, and the polling place is not sufficiently equipped to allow comfortable or adequate entrance to the building, there is another option in G.S. 163-130:
"G.S. 163-130. Satellite voting places. A county board of elections may, upon approval of a request submitted in writing to the State Board of Elections, establish a plan whereby elderly or disabled voters in a precinct may vote at designated sites within the precinct other than the regular voting place for that precinct. The State Board of Elections shall approve a county board's proposed plan if:

All the satellite voting places to be used are listed in the county's written request
The plan will in the State Board's judgment overcome a barrier to voting by the elderly or disabled persons;
Adequate security against fraud is provided for; and
The plan does not unfairly favor or disfavor voters with regard to race or party affiliation.

CURBSIDE VOTING:

"G.S. 163-166.9. Aged and disabled persons allowed to vote outside voting enclosure. In any primary or election any qualified voter who is able to travel to the voting place, but because of age, or physical disability and physical barriers encountered at the voting place is unable to enter the voting place or enclosure to vote in person without physical assistance, shall be allowed to vote either in the vehicle conveying such person to the voting place or in the immediate proximity of the voting place. . ."

VOTING ASSISTANCE:

"G.S. 163-166.8. Assistance to voters in primaries and general elections. In a primary or general election, a registered voter qualified to vote in the primary or general election shall be entitled to assistance in getting to and from the voting booth and in preparing his ballots in accordance with the following rules:

Any voter shall be entitled to assistance from a near relative of his [her] choice.

Any voter in any of the following four categories shall be entitled to assistance from a person of the voter's choice, other than the voter's employer or agent of that employer or officer or agent of the voter's union:

1. One who, on account of physical disability, is unable to enter the voting booth without assistance;

2. One who, on account of physical disability, is unable to mark his ballots without assistance;

3. One who, on account of illiteracy, is unable to mark his ballots without assistance;

4. One who, on account of blindness, is unable to enter the voting booth or mark his ballots without assistance."

IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY PROBLEMS WITH ACCESS: REPORT IT!

The NC State Board of Elections at 866-522-4723.

Democracy North Carolina at 888-OUR-VOTE.

The Election Protection National Hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE.

North Carolina Republican Party - 1-919-828-6423 Extension 146

North Carolina Democratic Party 1-919-394-0403.

Election 2008: Tuesday, November 4th is Election Day

Good Morning Everyone!  This is it.  We are counting down to the most important Tuesday on our calendar, Election Day 2008! 

Tomorrow, Tuesday November 4th is Election Day!  We will be posting a comprehensive voter information update today.  You will not be able to register to vote and vote on Election Day.  

If you are already registered you can vote tomorrow if you have not already voted.

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina

Election Day 2008:

The biggest event of the week is Election Day 2008 on Tuesday, November 4th.  Thanks to Early Voting options we have seen 2.6 million registered voters make their choice on who will be the next leaders of our state and nation.  We encourage you if you have not yet voted to vote.  We will be posting on this blog and on our Election 2008 Blog voting information later today.

After the Election the General Assembly will be back in full swing with committee meetings.



Wednesday, Nov. 5

10 a.m. | The 21st Century Transportation Committee -- Finance Subcommittee meets, 544 LOB.

1 p.m. | The Child Fatality Task Force - Unintentional Death Committee meets, 1228/1327 LB.

1 p.m. | The Gov Ops Subcommittee-Education/Health and Human Services meets, 421 LOB.

1 p.m. | The Gov Ops Subcommittee-Statewide/Capital/Gen. Gov. meets, 544 LOB.

Thursday, Nov. 6
9 a.m. | The Joint Legislative Commission on Governmental Operations meets, 643 LOB.

1 p.m. | The House Select Committee on Compensation for Victims of the Eugenics Sterilization Program meets, 1124 LB.

National

Congress is on the campaign trail.  The US Senate will be returning for a lame duck session after the election is over.  The hot topic on the Hill is an economic stimulus plan.

IMPORTANT ELECTION NEWS: Correction on Early Voting Hours

Important Correction to Early Voting Hours for Saturday, November 1st. NOT ALL of the Counties are going to be doing extended hours on Saturday!!!

Please check the North Carolina State Board of Election Website for where your Early Vote Site is and what time it will close on Saturday!

You can see more information at WRAL!

Election 2008: Special Announcement-Early Voting Hours Extended for Saturday

WRAL news is reporting that all Early Voting locations will be open four extra hours on Saturday, November 1st.

This announcement is from the North Carolina State Board of Elections and does cover all 100 counties.

Read More at WRAL News.

Election 2008: Early Voting Ends November 1st

Quick reminder: It is not to late to vote early! That is right, while you are running around doing that last minute Halloween costume purchase or last minute Halloween candy purchase please consider stopping to vote!

We encourage you to vote early.  The lines on Tuesday, November 4th are expected to be long and we do not want you to miss out on casting a ballot in this important election.

Early Voting sites are open until this Saturday, November 1st.

Find out more at The Arc of North Carolina Election 2008 Blog.

Election 2008: Problems at the Polls? Here is Who to Call

If you are a person with a disability and you experience any problems at your polls that limit your right to vote, we need you to report it.  There are three organizations that are open and ready to take your calls.

Please report barriers to voting to the following organizations:

The NC State Board of Elections at 866-522-4723.

Democracy North Carolina at 888-OUR-VOTE.

The Election Protection National Hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE.

Election 2008: Your Voting Rights!

We encourage you to use Early/One Stop Voting sites that are now open around the state to cast your vote! We also encourage you to know your rights as a voter! If you are a person with a disability voting in this election there are two laws that protect your rights, one is the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines the other is the Help America Vote Act (HAVA)

The North Carolina Board of Elections site states the following on Voter Accessibility for people with disabilities:

Voting Accessibility
North Carolina boards of elections are committed to ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG). Most polling places in the State are accessible to all voters.

Unfortunately, some localities do not have the available structures or adequate funding to alter them. Contact your county board of elections to learn more about your particular voting facility. Note the “reassignment of polling place” provision should your polling place not be accessible in the near future.

Adaptive technology and ballots in accessible media are available upon request. Contact your County Board office and make them aware of your voting needs.

When a voter with a disability appears to vote at his or her precinct on election day, he or she may take advantage of the provisions in G.S. 163-155 and G.S. 163-152(a).

REASSIGNMENT OF POLLING PLACE

If a disabled voter does not wish to vote curbside, and the polling place is not sufficiently equipped to allow comfortable or adequate entrance to the building, there is another option in G.S. 163-130:
"G.S. 163-130. Satellite voting places. A county board of elections may, upon approval of a request submitted in writing to the State Board of Elections, establish a plan whereby elderly or disabled voters in a precinct may vote at designated sites within the precinct other than the regular voting place for that precinct. The State Board of Elections shall approve a county board's proposed plan if:

All the satellite voting places to be used are listed in the county's written request
The plan will in the State Board's judgment overcome a barrier to voting by the elderly or disabled persons;
Adequate security against fraud is provided for; and
The plan does not unfairly favor or disfavor voters with regard to race or party affiliation.

CURBSIDE VOTING

"G.S. 163-166.9. Aged and disabled persons allowed to vote outside voting enclosure. In any primary or election any qualified voter who is able to travel to the voting place, but because of age, or physical disability and physical barriers encountered at the voting place is unable to enter the voting place or enclosure to vote in person without physical assistance, shall be allowed to vote either in the vehicle conveying such person to the voting place or in the immediate proximity of the voting place. . ."

VOTING ASSISTANCE

"G.S. 163-166.8. Assistance to voters in primaries and general elections. In a primary or general election, a registered voter qualified to vote in the primary or general election shall be entitled to assistance in getting to and from the voting booth and in preparing his ballots in accordance with the following rules:

Any voter shall be entitled to assistance from a near relative of his [her] choice.

Any voter in any of the following four categories shall be entitled to assistance from a person of the voter's choice, other than the voter's employer or agent of that employer or officer or agent of the voter's union:

1. One who, on account of physical disability, is unable to enter the voting booth without assistance;

2. One who, on account of physical disability, is unable to mark his ballots without assistance;

3. One who, on account of illiteracy, is unable to mark his ballots without assistance;

4. One who, on account of blindness, is unable to enter the voting booth or mark his ballots without assistance."

NORTH CAROLINA TASK FORCE ON ELECTIONS ACCESS

In 1999, disability advocacy leaders, along with local election officials developed the North Carolina Task Force on Elections Access. The Task Force's primary goal is to seek solutions to the issues faced by both voters with disabilities and election officials. The elections community is committed to issues involved in all voters exercising their right to vote and in doing so with dignity and pride.

Election 2008: The Arc of Wake County-Candidate Forum

Wednesday is the date! We have a good list of candidates who will be participating. Please come prepared with your questions!

Wednesday, October 22nd 7 - 9 pm
Raleigh Council Chambers
222 W. Hargett St. Room 201 Raleigh, 27601

Dont miss your chance to ask questions and find out where our candidates stand in the upcoming election.

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

It is going to be a very busy week at the North Carolina General Assembly. With under 16 days to go until the election, committee meetings are scheduled for every day this week. Planning ahead we see a big decrease in meetings for next week. There are some meetings of great interest to our community this week. There is a Health Care Oversight meeting on Tuesday and then on Thursday the House Select Committee on Compensation for Victims of Eugenics Sterilization Program meets.
As always, all of these meetings are open to the public.

North Carolina:

Monday, Oct. 20
10 a.m. | The Child Fatality Taskforce meets, 1228/1327 LB.

Tuesday, Oct. 21
10 a.m. | The Health Care Oversight meets, Joint Legislative Committee meets, 1228/1327 LB.

10 a.m. | The House Select Committee on Televising Sessions meets, 1425 LB.

10 a.m. | The Agency Review Sub-Committee of Joint Legislative Committee on Domestic Violence meets, 421 LOB.

Wednesday, Oct. 22
10 a.m. | The Legislative Study Commission on Children and Youth meets, 1027/1128 LB.

1 p.m. | The Joint Select Committee on Arts Education meets, 1228/1327 LB.

Thursday, Oct. 23
10 a.m. | The North Carolina Study Commission on Aging meets, 544 LOB.

1 p.m. | The House Select Committee on Compensation for Victims of the Eugenics Sterilization Program meets, 1124/1224 LB.

1 p.m. | The House Study Committee on Unbanked and Underbanked Consumers meets, 1228/1327 LB.

Same Day Voting/Early Voting Begins in North Carolina Today!

Beat the rush and vote today.  If you head over to The Arc of NC Election 2008 blog you will find information regarding Same Day Voting/Early Voting.  

We encourage you to learn about the candidates. We have many sites listed on the Election Blog to help you with that.

Also remember that the judicial races and many others are non-partisan.  

Remember also to turn over your ballot! The other candidates are on the back of the ballot!

The Coalition Announces: Presidential Candidate Forum

The Coalition has been contacted by the Obama/Biden Presidential campaign with an offer to speak with North Carolina mental health, developmental disability and substance abuse advocates about the campaign's position on these issues and to hear from advocates about their concerns. The campaign will be sending a representative to speak with and answer questions from Coalition members and the public. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear from and educate a Presidential Candidate’s policy committee on the important SA/DD/MH issues that need to be addressed at the Federal level.

This is not a debate event between candidates; only one candidate’s campaign will be present. Please note that the Coalition has contacted the McCain/Palin campaign with a similar offer, and are doing the same with the NC Republican Party. Should they respond with interest, a similar event will be held to speak with them on these same issues.

The forum is open to the public and we encourage individuals, families, providers, advocates, and anyone concerned with developmental disabilities, addiction, and mental health to attend.

Date: Tuesday, October 21st
Time: 6 p.m. with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Meredith College Chapel, Raleigh NC

Snacks & beverages will be served beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Spread the word and plan to attend!

Please come with QUESTIONS!

For directions to 3800 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC visit www.meredith.edu. Our thanks to Meredith College and the Meredith College Democrats for their sponsorship of the event.

Joint Legislative Oversight Committee Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, Substance Abuse: Agenda

The Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse will meet on Thursday, October 16, 2008. The meeting will be in room 643 of the Legislative Office Building. The meeting is open to the public and can be heard on line at the North Carolina Legislative website.

Agenda:

1. Greetings and Opening Comments 10:00 – 10:15
Representative Verla Insko, Co-Chair
Senator Martin Nesbitt, Co-Chair

2. Local Management Entities 10:15 – 11:15

a. Albemarle LME
Charlene Allen, Finance Officer
Dr. Hunter Thompson, Medical/Clinical Director

b. Johnston LME
Dr. Janis Nutt, Area Director

c. Critical Measures: LME Performance Matrix
Shealy Thompson, Ph.D., Quality Management Team Leader
Division of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS

3. State Facilities 11:15 – 11:45
a. State ADATC Facility Update
Helen Wolstenholme, ADATC Team Leader, Div. of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS

b. State Psychiatric Hospitals
Michael Lancaster, MD, Co-Director, Div. of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS

4. Community Support Services 11:45 – 12:30

a. Snapshot of Published Monthly Reports
Leza Wainwright, Co-Director, Div. of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS

b. Overview of Legislative direction
Gann Watson, LOC staff

c. Update on Appeals Process
Tara Larson, Acting Director, DMA, DHHS

Lunch 12:30 – 1:30

5. Program Evaluation Division 1:30 – 2:00
a. Evaluation of the MH/DD/SAS System
Yana Samberg, Program Evaluation Division, NCGA
Dr. Carol Ripple, Program Evaluation Division, NCGA

6. NC Council on Developmental Disabilities Summit 2:00 – 2:45
a. Review and Recommendations
Valerie Bradley, President,
Human Services Research Institute

7. CAP MR/DD Services Provided by Family Members 2:45 – 3:00
Leza Wainwright, Co-Director Div. of MH/DD/SAS, DHHS

Adjourn 3:00

Election 2008: It's Debate Night!!

Please check out the Election 2008 blog for information on two important debates that are happening this evening!

Joint Legislative Oversight Committee Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, Substance Abuse: Meeting

The Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse will be meeting on Thursday, October 16, 2008. The meeting will begin at 10:00am in room 643 of the Legislative Office Building. This meeting is open to the public. If you are unable to attend you can listen on line at the North Carolina General Assembly webpage.

We will update this post later today with the agenda.

Election 2008: Sample Ballot Information (Edited for Clarification See Bold)

Before you head out to vote....take a moment to familiarize yourself with your local ballot. This year the ballot has four parts. So here they are:

1. Vote for the Presidential Candidate of your choice.

2. Vote for the party of your choice. Democrat, Republican or Libertarian straight party ticket are your choices here. If you vote for a straight party ticket you can skip the Partisan Race section of the ballot. But...you will still NOT have voted for the Judicial races and Non Partisan candidates.

3. Partisan Races are next on the ballot. These include your choice for United States Senate and House of Representatives as well as your choice for North Carolina Senate and House. In addition you will find all state offices, such as commissioner of insurance or labor, in this section.

4. Non Partisan Races are the last on the ballot. These are your judicial candidates.

Want to see a sample ballot here is an example.

Election 2008 Important Information.

The election is quickly coming up and we want to encourage you to take the opportunity to learn more about how to vote in North Carolina.  To help with this we have been blogging the election and voting information on our Election 2008 blog.

We have an interesting article up now from the Huffington Post discussing the disability vote.  We also have links up that will help you access early voting options in our state.

This election is important.  Your vote will matter. Take the time to read up on your rights at the polling places and learn more about the candidates.

Monday Quick HIts: Hot Policy Topics for This Week

North Carolina:

The election is under thirty days away but the General Assembly is still in full swing with its interim committee meetings. Here is your list of meetings of interest for this week.


Mon, October 13, 2008
10:00 AM Child Fatality Taskforce - Unintentional Death Committee 1228/1327 LB

Tue, October 14, 2008
10:00 AM Education Oversight Committee, Joint Legislative 643 LOB
10:00 AM NC Study Commission on Aging Public Hearing - Lake Lure


Wed, October 15, 2008
9:00 AM Local Social Services Issues, Joint Study Committee on 421 LOB
9:00 AM Joint Legislative Education Oversight 643 LOB
2:00 PM Information Technology, Joint Select Committee on 421 LOB

Thu, October 16, 2008
10:00 AM Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse, Joint Legislative Oversight Committee 643 LOB

North Carolina Disability History and Awareness Month

In North Carolina, October is Disability History and Awareness Month.  This month we will take a look at the many contributions that people with disabilities have made to our nation.  We will also be doing a new series of poll questions to test your Disability History aptitude.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2008-Presidential Proclamation

National Disability Employment Awareness Month, 2008
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America


White House News
During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that our Nation's promise extends to all our citizens.

Millions of Americans live with disabilities, and many other Americans will become disabled at some point in their lives. To integrate people with disabilities more fully into every aspect of life, our country is working to advance greater freedoms at work, in schools, and throughout communities. By expanding employment opportunities and fighting false perceptions that hinder people living with disabilities from joining the workforce, we can uphold America's moral values, strengthen our economy, and make America a more hopeful place.

More than 7 years ago, my Administration announced the New Freedom Initiative, which expanded upon the landmark reforms of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Since then, the Initiative has increased access for people with disabilities through technology, provided additional educational opportunities for youth, and integrated more Americans into the workforce. My Administration remains committed to empowering all people to reach their full educational, social, and professional goals. To learn more about the Federal Government's disability-related programs, please visit DisabilityInfo.gov.

To recognize the contributions of Americans with disabilities and to encourage all citizens to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce, the Congress has designated October of each year (36 U.S.C. 121) as "National Disability Employment Awareness Month."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 2008 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. I call upon Government officials, labor leaders, employers, and the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # #

Breaking News: Senate Passes Bailout Bill

With a vote of 74 yes and 25 nayes the Senate has passed their version of the Bailout Bill.  The Senate version included several "sweeteners" including Mental Health Parity.

Why Mental Health Parity? The Senate needed to attach their bailout bill to an existing legislation and this pick is a good one.

Here are the "sweeteners" as presented by CNN News:

• An increase in the amount that the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation will insure in bank accounts: to $250,000, up from $100,000
  
• A fix that would prevent middle-class taxpayers from paying the alternative minimum tax
  
• A number of tax extensions favored by either Republicans or Democrats
  
• Tax exemptions for renewable energy
  
• A measure that would require health insurers to treat mental health issues the same way they treat physical illnesses

So how did the Senators from North Carolina vote?

Senator Dole voted No.  Senator Burr voted Yes.

National Action Alert: URGE YOUR SENATORS TO ACT ON BILL TO DELAY MEDICAID OUTPATIENT RULE

URGE YOUR SENATORS TO ACT ON BILL TO DELAY MEDICAID OUTPATIENT RULE
Take Action!

Help us Block Cuts in Services for People with Developmental Disabilities

The Arc is asking for your help in making one last legislative push to address one of our most important unresolved issues before Congress adjourns for the election.

Yesterday, September 30, Senators Charles Schumer (D-NY) and five other senators introduced the Preserving Access to Healthcare (PATH) Act of 2008 (S. 3656). This bill would delay for six months cuts to Medicaid outpatient payments.

Background

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued the Proposed Outpatient Rule in September of 2007. This regulation would narrow the definition of outpatient hospital and clinic services and limit Medicaid reimbursement under the hospital outpatient benefit to only those services covered by Medicare.

Importing Medicare concepts into the Medicaid program does not recognize the inherent differences between programs, which serve very different populations. Some of these key differences and their resulting impact under the proposed regulation are summarized in the table below.

Service

Medicare Coverage

Impact of Outpatient Rule on Medicaid

Day Treatment

Medicare does not pay for day programs for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Medicare does not pay for day treatment such as intensive psychiatric rehabilitation.
No funding for day treatment programs for persons with psychiatric or developmental disabilities.

Comprehensive primary care and ancillary services.

Medicare does not recognize clinics that provide comprehensive primary care and ancillary services. Therefore it reimburses them as if they were visits to private physicians.
No funding for some clinic services, such as lab and radiology services.

Select Services

Medicare does not pay at all for certain services such as vision, psychiatric and dental services
No funding for clinics that specialize in mental health services or services for individuals with developmental disabilities.


Take Action

Call your Senators TODAY. While time for legislative action is running short, there is still an opportunity to build support before Congress leaves for the election!

(Do not call the Capitol Switchboard - all circuits continue to be busy. Use your Senators' office numbers provided when you enter your zip code in the "Call Now" window).

Blind Advocates Protest Against the Movie "Blindness"

Hollywood is experiencing yet another protest against a new film release. "Blindness" a film about Blind people who are quarantined in a mental asylum is the second film of the year to be protested by disability rights activists.  

This film depicts people who are Blind in the worst of stereotypes, depicting people who have become recently Blind as "depraved and as monsters" stated Marc Mauerer-President of the National Federation of the Blind.  

Earlier this summer the movie "Tropical Thunder" depicted people with intellectual disabilities in a negative and demeaning manner.  This film was protested by people with developmental disabilities throughout the country.  The Arc of the United States and Special Olympics both released statements regarding the disrespectful and harmful use of the R-word and the hurtful characterization portrayed by actor Ben Stiller of a person with an intellectual disability.

These films cause serious issues for people with disabilities.  Media plays an integral role in our society and the constant barrage of negative imaging of people with disabilities creates real barriers to our communities full acceptance in society.  These films need to be held accountable for the messages that they are delivering. 



Associated Press Article: Blind Activists Plan Protest of Movie "Blindness"

Blind activists plan protest of movie 'Blindness'
By BEN NUCKOLS – 23 hours ago
BALTIMORE (AP) — Blind people quarantined in a mental asylum, attacking each other, soiling themselves, trading sex for food. For Marc Maurer, who's blind, such a scenario — as shown in the movie "Blindness" — is not a clever allegory for a breakdown in society.
Instead, it's an offensive and chilling depiction that Maurer fears could undermine efforts to integrate blind people into the mainstream.
"The movie portrays blind people as monsters, and I believe it to be a lie," said Maurer, president of the Baltimore-based National Federation of the Blind. "Blindness doesn't turn decent people into monsters."
The organization plans to protest the movie, released by Miramax Films, at 75 theaters around the country when it's released Friday. Blind people and their allies will hand out fliers and carry signs. Among the slogans: "I'm not an actor. But I play a blind person in real life."
The movie reinforces inaccurate stereotypes, including that the blind cannot care for themselves and are perpetually disoriented, according to the NFB.
"We face a 70 percent unemployment rate and other social problems because people don't think we can do anything, and this movie is not going to help — at all," said Christopher Danielsen, a spokesman for the organization.
"Blindness" director Fernando Meirelles, an Academy Award nominee for "City of God," was shooting on location Thursday and unavailable for comment, according to Miramax. The studio released a statement that read, in part, "We are saddened to learn that the National Federation of the Blind plans to protest the film `Blindness.'"
The NFB began planning the protests after seven staffers, including Danielsen, attended a screening of the movie in Baltimore last week. The group included three sighted employees.
"Everybody was offended," Danielsen said.
Based on the 1995 novel by Nobel Prize winner Jose Saramago, "Blindness" imagines a mysterious epidemic that causes people to see nothing but fuzzy white light — resulting in a collapse of the social order in an unnamed city. Julianne Moore stars as the wife of an eye doctor (Mark Ruffalo) who loses his sight; she feigns blindness to stay with her husband and eventually leads a revolt of the quarantined patients.
The book was praised for its use of blindness as a metaphor for the lack of clear communication and respect for human dignity in modern society.
Miramax said in its statement that Meirelles had "worked diligently to preserve the intent and resonance of the acclaimed book," which it described as "a courageous parable about the triumph of the human spirit when civilization breaks down."
Maurer will have none of it.
"I think that failing to understand each other is a significant problem," he said. "I think that portraying it as associated with blindness is just incorrect."
The protest will include pickets at theaters in at least 21 states, some with dozens of participants, timed to coincide with evening showtimes. Maurer said it would be the largest protest in the 68-year history of the NFB, which has 50,000 members and works to improve blind people's lives through advocacy, education and other ways.
The film was the opening-night entry at the Cannes Film Festival, where many critics were unimpressed.
After Cannes, Meirelles retooled the film, removing a voice-over that some critics felt spelled out its themes too explicitly.
Meirelles told The Associated Press at Cannes that the film draws parallels to such disasters as Hurricane Katrina, the global food shortage and the cyclone in Myanmar.
"There are different kinds of blindness. There's 2 billion people that are starving in the world," Meirelles said. "This is happening. It doesn't need a catastrophe. It's happening, and because there isn't an event like Katrina, we don't see."