House Bill 236 Does more harm than good

Ohio House Bill 236: Unnecessary Duplication of Regulations Threatens Services for Ohioans with I/DD

Ohio House Bill 236, also known as the Never Alone Act, has garnered attention for its purported aim to support Ohioans with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD). However, a closer examination reveals that this legislation could do more harm than good. Rather than improving services for individuals with I/DD, HB 236 threatens to burden service providers with unnecessary duplication of regulations, potentially exacerbating existing challenges and hindering the delivery of essential care and support.

At its core, HB 236 seeks to establish new requirements for service providers catering to Ohioans with I/DD. While the intention to enhance protections for vulnerable individuals is commendable, the implementation of this bill overlooks the practical realities faced by service providers already struggling to navigate a complex regulatory landscape.

One of the primary concerns raised by opponents of HB 236 is the duplication of requirements imposed on service providers. Ohio's providers of services for individuals with I/DD are already subject to rigorous regulations and oversight from various state agencies and accrediting bodies. These regulations encompass areas such as staffing ratios, training standards, health and safety protocols, and quality assurance measures. Introducing additional mandates through HB 236 only serves to add layers of complexity without demonstrable benefits.

Moreover, the imposition of redundant regulations diverts valuable resources away from the provision of direct care and support. Service providers are forced to allocate time, manpower, and financial resources towards compliance efforts, detracting from their ability to meet the diverse needs of individuals with I/DD effectively. Rather than fostering innovation and improvement in service delivery, HB 236 risks stifling innovation and imposing undue administrative burdens on already overstretched providers.

Critics argue that HB 236 fails to address the root causes of systemic challenges within Ohio's I/DD service system. Instead of focusing on superficial measures that offer little tangible impact, policymakers should prioritize comprehensive reforms aimed at enhancing the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of services for individuals with I/DD. This includes investing in workforce development, expanding community-based supports, and promoting person-centered approaches that empower individuals with I/DD to lead fulfilling lives.

Furthermore, HB 236 overlooks the importance of collaboration and partnership between service providers, individuals with I/DD, their families, and advocacy organizations. Meaningful engagement with stakeholders is essential for developing policies that reflect the diverse needs and preferences of the I/DD community. Unfortunately, the rushed and unilateral approach taken in crafting HB 236 has sidelined input from those directly affected, undermining the legitimacy and effectiveness of the proposed legislation.

In conclusion, Ohio House Bill 236, the Never Alone Act, represents a misguided attempt to address the needs of Ohioans with I/DD. By imposing unnecessary duplication of regulations on service providers, the bill risks exacerbating existing challenges and detracting from the delivery of quality care and support. Rather than pursuing superficial measures, policymakers should focus on holistic reforms that promote collaboration, innovation, and person-centered approaches to empower individuals with I/DD and enhance their quality of life.