Statement of Priorities
Federal Fiscal Year 2008

(October 1, 2007 through September 30, 2008)

PRIORITY ONE:
Ensure that reports of abuse or neglect of persons with disabilities in public or private facilities and in the community are responded to, investigated, and addressed in a timely and effective manner, with particular emphasis on:
a. Physical, sexual, or psychological mistreatment.
b. Seclusion, restraint (including chemical), or aversive interventions without informed consent having been obtained.
c. Deprivation of necessities, including medical and mental health treatment.
d. An unsafe environment, or proposed discharge to or placement in an unsafe environment.
e. Involuntary placement in residential care and treatment centers.
f. Any action or inaction which deprives a person with disabilities of the right to exercise his/her legal rights.
g. The unauthorized release of confidential information.

PRIORITY TWO:
Promote autonomy and alternatives to guardianship. (This is a collaborative effort with the RI Developmental Disabilities Council and the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities.)

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