Contact Person: Scott
Renner EMBARGOED
Until
Telephone: 334-240-2520 September
21, 2006
Cell Phone: 334-220-8442
Email: MCIL@bellsouth.net
AARP AND
Press Conference on Capitol Steps
Disability advocates
from across the state will be joined by
It doesn’t come as a
surprise to anyone that older Alabamians and people with disabilities would
prefer to live in their own homes rather than nursing homes. While nursing homes provide a much-needed
service, there is a growing recognition that older people and people with
disabilities, with support, can live productive and fulfilling lives in the
community.
“Money Follows the
Person” legislation has increased in importance due to the recent announcement
that the State of Alabama Medicaid Agency will not apply for a Grant from CMS
(Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services) that would help the state move
willing citizens from costly nursing home settings to less restrictive, more
fulfilling, homes in the community. The
$1.75 billion federal grant must be applied for by November 1st. Gov. Bob Riley has informed various groups
that
During the 2006
legislative session, Rep. Linda Coleman sponsored a bill that would allow for
Medicaid funds to follow eligible individuals from institutional settings to
community-based services and supports, a process that has become known as
“Money Follows the Person.” Although the
bill died in the House, Ms. Coleman has vowed to re-introduce it in 2007
legislative session.
Alabama
Arise is a coalition of religious, community, and civic groups that promote
state policies to improve the lives of low-income people. Kimble Forrester of
Likewise, Joan Carter of AARP