Advocacy
Change is at Hand
Massachusetts’ Real Lives law was passed in 2014 but implementation has taken a decade. It calls on the commonwealth’s Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to establish processes and policies that give people with disabilities and their families more flexibility and independence in choosing how to spend the money they are provided by the department.
A revised set of regulations were released recently by DDS. We are at a critical juncture, so now is the time to make your voice heard. We encourage you to review the recently released regulations. For background on the regulations, check out this fact sheet from the Massachusetts Alliance for 21st Century Disability Policy.
The Governor’s Office and the Executive Office of Health and Human Services have both expressed strong interest in self-determination through self-direction, and they have been engaged throughout the rule-making process. We believe they support innovation and equity in funding and services for people with autism and developmental disabilities. Change is at hand, and all of us working together can make sure that the future is brighter for everyone.
