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DODD Overstepping in Compliance Reviews: A Call for Balanced Oversight

The Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). However, there is growing concern that DODD is overstepping its bounds in compliance reviews with agency providers. Instead of offering support and guidance, DODD's stringent reviews often penalize agencies for minor infractions, diverting valuable resources away from the individuals who need them most.

Read more »

Navigating the world of IDD Part 3

1. Promoting Community Inclusion: Fostering community inclusion and belonging is essential for individuals with IDD to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. Families play a vital role in advocating for inclusive policies, programs, and environments that promote acceptance, accessibility, and social integration. To advocate effectively for community inclusion:

Read more »

Navigating the world of IDD Part 2

1. Navigating Healthcare Systems: Accessing quality healthcare services is essential for individuals with IDD to maintain their physical and emotional well-being. However, navigating complex healthcare systems can be challenging for families. To advocate effectively in healthcare settings:

Read more »

Ohio House Bill No. 427

Ohio House Bill No. 427, introduced in the 135th General Assembly Regular Session, aims to amend sections of the Revised Code to phase out subminimum wage for individuals with physical or mental disabilities. The bill, named the Ohio Employment First and Greater Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act, includes provisions for coordination among relevant departments, data sharing, and the establishment of an employment first task force. Additionally, the bill addresses the minimum wage, employer-employee relationships, and exemptions, ensuring compliance with constitutional requirements. The proposed legislation also allows for the issuance of licenses permitting employers to pay a lower wage to individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, it outlines provisions related to casual employment, family-owned businesses, and employer disclosure of contact information.

Read more »

DODD is asking the Impossible

Major Unusual Incidents (MUIs) are common and some, but not all, are preventable. Providers, SSAs (service and Support Administrators) and Investigative Agents (IAs) work in tandem to reduce risk and keep people safe. Unfortunately, the people writing new rules and regulations are often far removed from the frontline and have no real understanding of life in the trenches. Case in point:

Read more »

Historic Rate Increases

From DODD's official website: “To recognize and value the work of DSPs is to recognize and value the people they support,” Director Hauck said in budget testimony.

Read more »

Handicapable?

In our journey towards creating a more inclusive and respectful society, language plays a pivotal role. One term that has sparked considerable debate is "Handicapable." While initially intended to convey a positive perspective on individuals with disabilities, many argue that its usage inadvertently perpetuates stereotypes and undermines the broader goal of inclusivity.

Read more »

Impacts of overriding HB68

Ohioans with developmental disabilities, like any other group, may be negatively impacted by legislation that targets transgender individuals. While the direct connection between anti-trans legislation and developmental disabilities may not be immediately apparent, there can be broader societal and psychological effects. Here are some potential negative impacts:

Read more »

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DODD Overstepping in Compliance Reviews: A Call for Balanced Oversight

The Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). However, there is growing concern that DODD is overstepping its bounds in compliance reviews with agency providers. Instead of offering support and guidance, DODD's stringent reviews often penalize agencies for minor infractions, diverting valuable resources away from the individuals who need them most.

Read more »

Navigating the world of IDD Part 3

1. Promoting Community Inclusion: Fostering community inclusion and belonging is essential for individuals with IDD to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. Families play a vital role in advocating for inclusive policies, programs, and environments that promote acceptance, accessibility, and social integration. To advocate effectively for community inclusion:

Read more »

Navigating the world of IDD Part 2

1. Navigating Healthcare Systems: Accessing quality healthcare services is essential for individuals with IDD to maintain their physical and emotional well-being. However, navigating complex healthcare systems can be challenging for families. To advocate effectively in healthcare settings:

Read more »

Ohio House Bill No. 427

Ohio House Bill No. 427, introduced in the 135th General Assembly Regular Session, aims to amend sections of the Revised Code to phase out subminimum wage for individuals with physical or mental disabilities. The bill, named the Ohio Employment First and Greater Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act, includes provisions for coordination among relevant departments, data sharing, and the establishment of an employment first task force. Additionally, the bill addresses the minimum wage, employer-employee relationships, and exemptions, ensuring compliance with constitutional requirements. The proposed legislation also allows for the issuance of licenses permitting employers to pay a lower wage to individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, it outlines provisions related to casual employment, family-owned businesses, and employer disclosure of contact information.

Read more »

DODD is asking the Impossible

Major Unusual Incidents (MUIs) are common and some, but not all, are preventable. Providers, SSAs (service and Support Administrators) and Investigative Agents (IAs) work in tandem to reduce risk and keep people safe. Unfortunately, the people writing new rules and regulations are often far removed from the frontline and have no real understanding of life in the trenches. Case in point:

Read more »

Historic Rate Increases

From DODD's official website: “To recognize and value the work of DSPs is to recognize and value the people they support,” Director Hauck said in budget testimony.

Read more »

Handicapable?

In our journey towards creating a more inclusive and respectful society, language plays a pivotal role. One term that has sparked considerable debate is "Handicapable." While initially intended to convey a positive perspective on individuals with disabilities, many argue that its usage inadvertently perpetuates stereotypes and undermines the broader goal of inclusivity.

Read more »

Impacts of overriding HB68

Ohioans with developmental disabilities, like any other group, may be negatively impacted by legislation that targets transgender individuals. While the direct connection between anti-trans legislation and developmental disabilities may not be immediately apparent, there can be broader societal and psychological effects. Here are some potential negative impacts:

Read more »

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DODDnews is a news outlet located in Ohio covering the Department of Developmental Disabilities. We strive to provide our readers with accurate, up-to-date news and information. We believe in giving readers an opportunity to voice their opinion and be heard. We work diligently to present the news in an unbiased manner and to ensure the accuracy of the information provided.