[April 16, 2015] SB 204 filed by Chuy Hinojosa is based on recommendations from the Sunset Commission. They direct the Department of Aging and Disability Services to establish a closure plan for the Austin State Supported Living Center (AuSSLC). The plan must provide for the closure of the facility by August 31, 2017.
The bill provides for a “restructuring commission” to evaluate each State Supported Living Center (SSLC) to determine whether closure is recommended to meet the level of need in the state. The commission will evaluate all SSLCs and make recommendations of which ones if any should be closed. By no later than December 16, 2016, the commission shall submit its recommendations. The next legislature would then decide on further closures.
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TSEU opposes the closure of any SSLC
SSLCs provide services to individuals with mostly severe to profound intellectual and developmental disabilities, many with complex medical, behavioral and environmental needs. Other placements cannot meet the level of needs these vulnerable citizens require or would force them to move far from their support network. Family and guardians are extremely concerned about the health, safety and well-being of their loved ones. Many dedicated, caring state employees’ jobs, pensions and futures are on the line.
What to do now?
Call members of the House Human Services Committee, tell them:
“I am a state employee and I vote. Closing Austin State Supported Living Center or any other SSLC is a bad idea. Hundreds of citizens with severe to profound intellectual and developmental disabilities with complex medical, behavioral and environmental needs live in these facilities. Their families and guardians are extremely concerned about their fate if they are forced to move to facilities not equipped to meet their needs. I am asking you to remove language from SB 204 that calls for closure of any State Supported Living Center. Will the Representative fight against SSLC closures?”
Richard Raymond,512-463-0558
Toni Rose, 512-463-0664
Mark Keough, 512-463-0797
Susan King, 512-463-0718
Stephanie Klick, 512-463-0599
Elliott Naishtat, 512-463-0668
Gilbert Pena, 512-463-0460
Four Price, 512-463-0470
Stuart Spitzer, 512-463-0458