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TTC-69 Public Hearing
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Committee to evaluate state school facilities
January 31, 2008
State Rep. John Zerwas (R-Richmond) and Rep. Dora Olivo (D-Rosenberg) have been selected to serve on a newly created House committee to evaluate how facilities such as Richmond State School serve their mentally retarded residents.
The committee will specifically serve those who qualify for services through intermediate care facilities such as RSS. The committee will assess the risks to the health and well-being of those who are being cared for under the current system, and it will also review the evaluation process used in determining eligibility.
Known as the Select Committee on Services for Individuals Eligible for Intermediate Care Facility Services, the committee will evaluate the state's infrastructure for serving persons with cognitive disabilities, and it will make recommendations for new strategies to improve the quality and availability of care in multiple settings.
"I am absolutely delighted that they formed this committee," said lleene Robinson of EI Campo, an RSS volunteer and advocate for the mentally retarded. "We are fortunate to have two local people (Zerwas and Olivo) on the committee. I really consider the Richmond State School (having) some of the finest care for mentally retarded in the
state. We have pretty high standards here."
The prospect of increased to the care of mentally retarded citizens in the state drew positive remarks from Arc of Fort Bend County representatives.
"We believe everyone should have choices in where they live," said Laura LaVigne, executive director for T.he Arc of Fort Bend County, advocates for the inclusion of individuals with mental retardation in their communities. "To this end, we promote legislation that will increase funding of Medicare Waiver programs so that individuals with disabilities can receive supportive services without waiting 10-12 years." The Arc also advocates for legislation that will increase funding for direct care workers in order for employees to be fairly compensated for the difficult work they perform and so that they will continue in the profession.
According to the Department of Aging and Disability Services, in July 2007, Texas ranked 42nd among states in spending (relative to total state personal income).
"We believe Texas can do a better job in funding the Medicaid Waiver programs that will enable individuals to live, work and play in their communities," said LaVigne.
Olivo said she is looking forward to serving on the committee.
"To me, this is a very good time to be looking at state schools. They are a very important part of our community."
Olivo also stated that this will be a great time for people to participate as there will be hearings held throughout the year.
The committee will report its findings and recommendations to the full House by Dec. 1.
Rep. Larry Phillips (R-Sherman) will chair the committee, with Zerwas serving as vice chair.
The committee's remaining, atlarge members include Reps. Myra Crownover (R-Denton), Susan King (R-Abilene), Armando Martinez (DWeslaco), Joe Pickett (D-EI Paso), Patrick Rose (D-Dripping Springs) and Vicki Truitt (R-Keller).
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