Tag: The Lanterman Act

AB 1575 Advances Person-First Language and Clarifies Definition of In-Home Respite Care

A bill sponsored by The Arc & UCP California Collaboration to modernize the Lanterman Act moved forward last week in the Assembly Committee on Human Services, with powerful testimony from self-advocates and service providers.

Assemblymember Dr. Joaquin Arambula’s AB 1575 makes two important updates to better reflect dignity and real-world needs for people receiving regional center services:

  • Replaces the outdated term “Consumer” with person-first language: “Person receiving regional center services.”
  • Clarifies that in-home respite services may include respite outside the family home, when appropriate.

At the April 14 hearing, former People First California Executive Director Joe Meadours delivered a clear and personal message about why language matters: “When you are talking about me, please call me a person. I want to be treated like a person.”

In the same sentiment, Dr. Arambula said, “This bill is about making sure that persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

The shift away from the term “consumer” reflects decades of advocacy and aligns California law with person-first principles that recognize individuals beyond their disabilities.

The bill also addresses long-standing inconsistencies in how respite services are delivered across regional centers. As Alex Mountford, President of the California Respite Association, testified, families often receive conflicting guidance, sometimes even within the same regional center, about whether individuals can leave the home during respite hours.

AB 1575 clarifies that community access is an option during in-home respite services, supporting inclusion and engagement while maintaining existing service definitions and cost structures.

Watch short clip of the hearing and testimony: https://youtu.be/-4-Jmy91N1M

AB 1575 passed out of Assembly Human Services Committee with 5 ayes and 0 nos, and will move to Assembly Appropriations Committee.  The date has not been set yet.

Hundreds of Disability Advocates Gathered at the Keep the Promise Rally in Sacramento

Last week, on May 22, more than 600 disability advocates gathered at the California State Capitol in Sacramento to participate in a powerful Keep the Promise Rally. Organized by The Lanterman Coali­tion, the event brought together individuals from across the state to voice their concerns about potential budget cuts threatening crucial services and supports for people with developmental disabilities and their families.

The rally featured an inspiring lineup of speakers from the disability community, including three legislative champions—Senators Tim Grayson, Shannon Grove, Suzette Valladares —who reaffirmed their commitment to defending disability programs. Attendees also heard heartfelt stories from self-advocates, parents, caregivers, and direct support professionals, emphasizing the importance of preserving funding to ensure that vulnerable populations continue to receive essential care as promised in The Lanterman Act of 1969.

In case you missed, FOX 40 News aired a story about the rally and shed light on why disability advocacy leaders are very concerned about the serious threats in both the federal and state budget proposals to make historic cuts to funding for programs such as Medicaid, Medi-Cal, Medicare, food assistance programs and regional center services that millions of people rely on to live full and equitable lives.

We want to acknowledge Futures Explored for providing professional video and photography services at the event.

  • Click HERE to view photos
  • Click HERE to view videos

Thank you to Momentum Refresh for bringing a mobile unit from Los Angeles area to the Capitol for an accessible restroom experience.

In summary, the rally underscores the urgent need for continued advocacy to protect the lifeline of services for 500,000 Californians with disabilities and their families.

Let’s keep demonstrating the power of our collective voice and demand our elected officials KEEP THE PROMISE! Join the effort, and click HERE to visit the action alert.

DID YOU KNOW: An Advocacy Coordinator is Available to Help You Access Services and Supports?

By Jim Frazier, Public Policy Director, The Arc / UCP California Collaboration

In 1998, The Lanterman Act was amended to create the role of an Advocacy Coordinator to be an independent contractor who advocates and supports individuals with developmental disabilities and their families being served by the 21 Regional Centers of California.

The Advocacy Coordinator works closely with clients and their families to ensure that their rights are protected and they have access to the services and supports they need. Some specific responsibilities of the Advocacy Coordinator may include:

1. Providing information and guidance: The Advocacy Coordinator helps individuals and families understand their rights and navigate the complex system of services and supports available to them. They provide information on available resources, programs, and benefits.

2. Individualized advocacy: The Advocacy Coordinator works with clients and their families to identify their specific needs and goals. They advocate on their behalf to ensure that they receive appropriate services, accommodations, and supports.

3. Collaborating with service providers: The Advocacy Coordinator collaborates with service providers, such as regional center staff, schools, healthcare professionals, and community organizations, to ensure that clients receive comprehensive and coordinated services.

4. Monitoring and addressing concerns: The Advocacy Coordinator monitors the quality of services provided to clients and addresses any concerns or complaints that arise. They may assist in resolving conflicts, advocating for changes in services, or facilitating communication between clients and service providers.

5. Community outreach and education: The Advocacy Coordinator may engage in community outreach activities to raise awareness about the rights and needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. They may also provide training and education to individuals, families, and service providers on topics related to disability rights and services.

Overall, the Advocacy Coordinator plays a crucial role in empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to advocate for themselves and access the services and supports they need to lead fulfilling lives.

Check in with your Advocacy Coordinator if you are having any issues and make sure you are not missing out on any opportunities and making sure you receive all that you are entitled too.

Click HERE to view contacts throughout the regional center system.

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