Public Policy

About the DLC’s Public Policy Advocacy

The Disability Law Center (DLC) bases its public policy on the belief that Utahns with disabilities have the right and responsibility to fully participate in society.  The DLC’s legislative agenda is informed by our organizational mission, values, and priorities and goals, and formulated with guidance from the Board of Trustees and input from our clients and constituents across the state.

Advocating for Critical Programs

The DLC continues to appreciate the vital role government plays in protecting the rights of Utahns with disabilities and their families. We are pleased that for the first time in three years the state is projecting a small revenue surplus. However, given the demand created by public education and Medicaid enrollment growth, it does not make sense to pursue new initiatives. Instead, we will work to ensure that existing programs have the resources necessary to meet the needs of those they currently serve. We will also work with legislators to ensure that their proposals benefit persons with disabilities as much as possible.

Strengthening Medicaid

• Increase the availability of and access to medically
  necessary care, assistive technology, and related services
• Track and improve quality of care through
  evidence-based treatment, standards, and outcomes
• Ensure that the unique needs of individuals with
  disabilities are considered as the system moves toward accountable care

 Preserving Home and Community-Based Supports

• Maintain DSPD and DAAS programs which promote the
  independence and productivity of people with disabilities and their
  families
• Ensure that local mental health authority clients
  continue to receive critical supports
• Promote approaches, models, and programs which reduce
  reliance on facility-based care for people with developmental disabilities
  and/or mental illness

Monitoring

• Protect education, housing, employment, and voting
  rights