The Governor's
signing of House Bill 144 on April 14, 2000, was the result of multiple
efforts throughout the state to bring positive changes to Kentucky's
system of services for persons with developmental, intellectual and
other related disabilities. One of the major efforts began in September
1999, when the Commonwealth of Kentucky was invited to participate in
what is now The President's Committee for People with Intellectual
Disabilities (PCPID).
Under the
leadership of the Governor and the Secretary of the Cabinet for Health
Services, a contingent of state representatives – including legislators,
state agency heads, advocates, providers, and family members
representing individuals with intellectual and developmental
disabilities – went to Washington to begin the planning effort. As a
result, a planning committee was developed which was in operation from
September 1999 until June 2000, when the commission was formed.
The
PCPID planning committee, along with advocacy groups and strong
legislative leadership, provided the impetus for the development of
House Bill 144, which created what is now the Kentucky Commission on
Services and Supports for Individuals with Intellectual or Other
Developmental Disabilities. It also created KRS 210.575, which
established the membership of the commission, and KRS 210.577, which
defines the commission's meetings, purposes and goals.
The
commission is to serve in an advisory capacity to the Governor and the
General Assembly concerning the needs of persons with an intellectual
disability and other developmental disabilities.