Final Real Lives Law Regulations Published
The Department of Developmental Services released the final version of “115 CMR 14.00 Self-Determination and Self-Directed Services,” the regulations that will govern the Real Lives law going forward. You can find them here.
While these regulations are not as explicit as we would like them to be on some key issues, we are pleased that they have been finalized after so many years. We appreciate your advocacy throughout this process. It has been invaluable, and we believe that it has changed the perspective of many within DDS and state government.
We hope and expect that DDS will continue to work on the Real Lives law, further refining these regulations by issuing a set of policies that clarify some of the concerns that remain. With that in mind, please write a brief email to key decision makers as they determine how to move forward.
Encourage those decision makers to develop and issue a set of policies that further strengthen the Real Lives law and ensure that self-direction in Massachusetts:
Gives adults budget authority to use their funding on services from independent organizations and companies – not just one-to-one services with employees or individual contractors.
Ensures better coordination and consistent decisions among the Department of Developmental Services Area Offices and Regional Self-Direction Managers.
Articulates a clear and standardized method for establishing an individual's budget.
Email the following people: Governor Maura Healey, Secretary of Health and Human Services Kate Walsh, Undersecretary of Human Services Mary McGeown, and Acting Commissioner Sarah Peterson.
You can also attend the upcoming DDS Self Determination Advisory Board meeting on December 12, 2024. It is an excellent venue for discussing policy issues and open to everyone.
Our work is not done, but your dedication has proven to be a powerful force time and again. Let’s continue to use it and continue to improve the supports that Massachusetts provides to adults with developmental disabilities.
