The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is committed to empowering people with disabilities with the tools and resources they need to live healthy, independent lives in their communities. With that commitment in mind, NCDHHS is appealing the Superior Court ruling in the Samantha R. et al. vs. NCDHHS and the state of North Carolina court case.
While the recent court order shares the same goals as NCDHHS — making community-based services available to those who want them — we are proposing a different plan that is informed by input from family members, providers and multiple community stakeholders and that aligns with our approved Olmstead plan. We believe this approach better meets the vision behind the court order. It considers the realities of an already stressed system and paces changes to avoid destabilizing the system. Fulfilling the long-term vision of the Olmstead plan will take a sustained commitment from a variety of state partners, beginning with $150 million in annual investments.
NCDHHS will continue its work to address the health and well-being of children, families, adults and elders with disabilities. We will continue to work in good faith with all parties and listen to feedback from a broad set of stakeholders to strengthen North Carolina’s ability to provide choice to individuals with I/DD. People with disabilities should have choices and be able to access services in the setting that is the best fit for them. For all of us, access to the community is essential for helping us thrive.
Editor’s Note: The new NCDHHS Leadership announced at today’s media availability:
- Kelly Crosbie as the Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services
- Renee Rader as the Deputy Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services.