Uncovering Connecticut's Hidden Systemic Disabilities Rights Violations

Date: 11/28/2023

Subject: Urgent Call for State-Level Action to Address Systemic Rights Violations in Connecticut's Disability Support System

Dear Governor Ned Lamont,

I am reaching out to you in my role as the CEO and Director of ABI Resources, an organization committed to the well-being of individuals with disabilities under the Federally Funded Medicaid ABI Waiver Program in Connecticut. This letter serves as both a statement of grave concern and a pressing appeal for your immediate action regarding systemic rights violations occurring within our state.

Date: 11/28/2023

Subject: Urgent Request for State and Federal Intervention to Address Systemic Rights Violations in Connecticut

Dear Senator Richard Blumenthal,

I am writing to you as the CEO and Director of ABI Resources, a Connecticut-based organization dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities under the Federally Funded Medicaid ABI Waiver Program. This letter is both an expression of grave concern and an urgent plea for your intervention regarding ongoing systemic rights violations in Connecticut.

These violations, perpetrated by state authorities and insufficiently addressed by federal entities, are infringing upon the rights of the community we serve, including my rights as a disabled business owner. Our efforts to tackle these challenges are hampered by the complexity, costs, and timeframes required to navigate existing systems, compounded by a conspicuous lack of federal oversight in Connecticut's allocation and use of federal funds.

Date: 11/28/2023

Subject: Immediate Intervention Needed for Addressing Systemic Rights Violations in Connecticut's Disability Support System

Dear Senator Chris Murphy,

I am reaching out to you in my capacity as the CEO and Director of ABI Resources, a Connecticut-based organization committed to supporting individuals with disabilities under the Federally Funded Medicaid ABI Waiver Program. This letter is an urgent appeal for your intervention regarding critical and systemic rights violations occurring within our state.

The crux of our concerns lies in the rights infringements perpetrated by Connecticut state authorities, which are further exacerbated by the lack of appropriate federal oversight. These actions are not only impinging upon my rights as a disabled entrepreneur but are also adversely affecting the vulnerable community we serve. The complexities, costs, and procedural delays inherent in the current systems have been barriers in our pursuit of justice, highlighting a significant oversight gap in the federal monitoring of Connecticut's use of federal funds.

Date: 11/28/2023

Subject: Urgent Request for Advocacy and Action on Systemic Rights Violations in Connecticut’s Disability Support System

Dear Congressman John B. Larson,

I am writing to you in my capacity as the CEO and Director of ABI Resources, a Connecticut-based organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities under the Federally Funded Medicaid ABI Waiver Program. I am reaching out to you, as a respected representative of Connecticut's 1st Congressional District, to seek your support and intervention in addressing critical systemic rights violations within our state.

Our organization, and more importantly, the community we serve, are facing significant challenges due to rights infringements perpetrated by state authorities. These issues are compounded by the lack of adequate federal oversight, severely impacting not only my rights as a disabled business owner but also those of the vulnerable individuals we support. The complexity, costs, and prolonged procedural delays inherent in the current systems represent significant barriers to justice and equitable treatment.

Date: 11/28/2023

Subject: Request for Urgent Congressional Attention on Systemic Rights Violations in Connecticut’s Disability Support System

Dear Congressman Joe Courtney,

I write to you in my capacity as the CEO and Director of ABI Resources, a company committed to serving individuals with disabilities under the Federally Funded Medicaid ABI Waiver Program in Connecticut. This correspondence is an urgent appeal for your attention and action regarding significant systemic rights violations within our state.

Our organization, ABI Resources, has been at the forefront of confronting these challenges. However, the rights infringements perpetrated by state authorities, compounded by inadequate federal oversight, are gravely impacting the vulnerable community we serve, including my rights as a disabled business owner. We face numerous barriers due to the complexities, costs, and procedural delays inherent in the current systems, highlighting critical gaps in Connecticut's management of federal funds.

Date: 11/28/2023

Subject: Urgent Intervention Required to Address Systemic Disabilities Rights Violations in Connecticut

Dear Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro,

I am writing to you in my capacity as CEO and Director of ABI Resources, a Connecticut-based organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities under the Federally Funded Medicaid ABI Waiver Program. This letter is an urgent call for your attention and action regarding significant systemic rights violations occurring within our state, particularly affecting those with disabilities.

Our organization, ABI Resources, is deeply committed to the welfare of individuals with disabilities, and it is with great concern that I bring to your attention the pressing issues we are facing. These challenges stem from the rights infringements by Connecticut state authorities, negatively impacting not only my rights as a disabled entrepreneur but also the rights of the vulnerable individuals we serve. The complexities and inefficiencies within the current systems have created significant barriers, hindering our efforts to seek justice and support for our community.

Date: 11/28/2023

Subject: Urgent Action Required to Address Systemic Rights Violations in Connecticut's Disability Support System

Dear Congressman Jim Himes,

I am writing to you in my role as the CEO and Director of ABI Resources, an organization operating in Connecticut to provide support for individuals with disabilities under the Federally Funded Medicaid ABI Waiver Program. This letter seeks your urgent attention and intervention concerning systemic rights violations impacting the disabled community in our state, particularly in the area you represent.

Connecticut is currently facing a critical issue: the infringement of rights by state authorities, which has been exacerbated by inadequate federal oversight. These violations affect not only my rights as a disabled entrepreneur but also impinge upon the rights and welfare of the individuals we serve. Our efforts to address these challenges have been consistently impeded by the complex, costly, and prolonged processes involved in navigating the current systems. This is compounded by a lack of effective oversight in Connecticut's management of federal funds, as intended for the benefit of the disabled community.

Date: 11/28/2023

Subject: Urgent Action Required to Address Systemic Rights Violations in Connecticut’s Disability Support System

Dear Congresswoman Jahana Hayes,

I am writing to you in my role as the CEO and Director of ABI Resources, a dedicated organization assisting individuals with disabilities under the Federally Funded Medicaid ABI Waiver Program in Connecticut. This letter is an urgent call to action regarding serious systemic rights violations occurring within our state, particularly impacting those with disabilities.

As a representative of Connecticut’s 5th Congressional District, your leadership and advocacy are vital in addressing these critical issues at the federal level. The rights infringements we face are not just a failure of state authorities but also reflect a gap in federal oversight. These issues severely impact not only my rights as a disabled business owner but also the rights and well-being of the vulnerable community we serve. The complexities and delays inherent in the current systems, both at the state and federal levels, have become significant barriers in our pursuit of justice and equity.

In this urgent appeal, I am highlighting the lack of transparency and accountability in the state’s administration of the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program. Our report sheds light on potential civil rights violations, government overreach, and their profound impact on the disabled community we are committed to serving. We have documented concerns regarding potential corruption, ethical violations, and financial mismanagement within state-run programs.

The absence of decisive action against these allegations risks setting a concerning precedent, undermining the principles of governance and oversight at the state level. The issues raised involve potential discrimination and inequality against individuals with disabilities and also raise significant public safety concerns.

As a leader deeply involved in these matters, I have seen firsthand the detrimental effects these systemic issues have on our clients and their families. It is not just a policy failure; it is a failure to protect and support those who rely on us. The responsibility to address these issues lies with the state of Connecticut, where robust oversight and effective solutions are critically needed.

In conclusion, the situation we are facing is a matter of national concern, warranting proactive and decisive intervention at the state level. The well-being of countless individuals reliant on the integrity of our state systems is in jeopardy.

I implore you to recognize the seriousness of this situation and take appropriate action. It is vital that the state of Connecticut takes responsibility for these systemic failures and implements effective solutions.

Thank you for your consideration of this pressing issue. I am ready to provide any further information or assistance required and look forward to your prompt response.

Best regards, David Medeiros

ABI Resources, CEO, Director, Team Member

In an unprecedented move that's shaking the foundations of Connecticut's healthcare system, a detailed complaint demanding federal intervention has been lodged to address systemic injustices within the state’s Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program. This bold step, while initiated by ABI Resources LLC, is a powerful echo of the struggles and aspirations of the broader disabled community, the unsung heroes among home care workers, diligent care managers, and the very ethos of Connecticut's commitment to equitable healthcare.

The Tipping Point: This complaint is not just another document in the bureaucratic maze. It's the culmination of years of silent battles, unheeded voices, and overlooked grievances. It uncovers a network of discriminatory practices, veiled Medicaid referrals, and financial intricacies that have long cast a shadow over the quality and accessibility of care for the disabled.

Voices from the Shadows: At the heart of this story are the lives of thousands of disabled individuals in Connecticut. Their daily realities are marred by barriers to essential services, a lack of adequate support, and a system that often seems indifferent to their struggles. Home care workers and care managers, who devote their lives to providing care, share in this struggle, facing constant challenges in a system fraught with inefficiencies and inequities.

The Battle for Transparency and Fair Play: The complaint is a clarion call for a revolution in the way Connecticut’s ABI Waiver Program is run. It calls for a system where transparency isn't just a buzzword but a foundational principle. It's a demand for a level playing field where the rights and needs of the disabled are not just recognized but given the highest priority.

Federal Oversight: The Beacon of Hope: The appeal for federal intervention is laden with expectations. It's seen as the crucial step towards dismantling the entrenched barriers of injustice and ushering in an era of reform. The hope is that federal oversight will not only bring about immediate changes but also set a precedent for long-term improvements in the state’s approach to disability care.

A Ripple Effect Across the Nation: This situation transcends Connecticut’s borders, spotlighting a systemic issue in the United States’ approach to disability care. It raises critical questions about the effectiveness of federal oversight in state-run programs and the broader implications for the nation's healthcare policies.

The Human Angle: At its core, this story is about people. It's about the resilience and courage of those living with disabilities, the dedication of caregivers who offer support and strength, and the community's collective effort to uphold the rights and dignity of every individual.

Contacting Your Connecticut Representatives and Senators in Washington

U.S. Senators (statewide)

Richard Blumenthal email

Connecticut Office 90 State House Square 10th Floor Hartford, CT 06103 860.258.6940 860.258.6958 (fax)

Washington, DC Office 702 Hart Office Building Washington, DC 20510 202.224.2823 202.224.9673 (fax)

Chris Murphy

email

Connecticut Offices 120 Huyshope Avenue Colt Gateway, Suite 401 Hartford, CT 06106 860.549.8463 860.524.5091 (fax)

Washington, DC Office 136 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 202.224.4041 202.224.9750 (fax)

U.S. Representatives (regional) Click here to find your U.S. Representative, as well as your Connecticut State Representative & State Senator.

John Larson—1st Congressional District email

Connecticut’s 1st Congressional District covers the north-central part of the state, including the towns of Barkhamsted, Berlin, Bloomfield, Bristol, Colebrook, Cromwell, East Granby, East Hartford, East Windsor, Glastonbury (part), Granby, Hartford, Hartland, Manchester, Middletown (part), New Hartford, Newington, Portland, Rocky Hill, South Windsor, Southington, Torrington (part), West Hartford, Wethersfield, Winchester, Windsor, and Windsor Locks

Connecticut Office 221 Main Street 2nd Floor Hartford, CT 06106 860.278.8888 860.278.2111 (fax)

Washington, DC Office 106 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 202.225.2265 202.225.1031 (fax)

Joe Courtney—2nd Congressional District email

Connecticut’s 2nd Congressional District covers the eastern part of the state, including the towns of Andover, Ashford, Bolton, Bozrah, Brooklyn, Canterbury, Chaplin, Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Columbia, Coventry, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, East Lyme, Eastford, Ellington, Enfield, Essex, Franklin, Glastonbury (part), Griswold, Groton, Haddam, Hampton, Hebron, Killingly, Killingworth, Lebanon, Ledyard, Lisbon, Lyme, Madison, Mansfield, Marlborough, Montville, New London, North Stonington, Norwich, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Plainfield, Pomfret, Preston, Putnam, Salem, Scotland, Somers, Sprague, Stafford, Sterling, Stonington, Suffield, Thompson, Tolland, Union, Vernon, Voluntown, Waterford, Westbrook, Willington, Windham, and Woodstock

Connecticut Offices 55 Main Street, Suite 250 Norwich, CT 06360 860.886.0139 860.886.2974 (fax)

Washington, DC Office 2348 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 202.225.2076 202.225.4977 (fax)

77 Hazard Ave., Unit J Enfield, CT 06082 860.741.6011 860.741.6036 (fax)

Rosa DeLauro—3rd Congressional District email

Connecticut’s 3rd Congressional District includes the south-central part of the state, including the towns of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Branford, Derby, Durham, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Middlefield, Middletown (part), Milford, Naugatuck, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Prospect, Seymour, Shelton (part), Stratford, Wallingford, Waterbury (part), West Haven, and Woodbridge

Connecticut Office 59 Elm Street New Haven, CT 06510 203.562.3718 203.772.2260 (fax)

Washington, DC Office 2413 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 202.225.3661 202.225.4890 (fax)

Jim Himes—4th Congressional District email

Connecticut’s 4th Congressional District covers the southwestern part of the state, including the towns of Bridgeport, Darien, Easton, Fairfield, Greenwich, Monroe, New Canaan, Norwalk, Oxford, Redding, Ridgefield, Shelton (part), Stamford, Trumbull, Weston, Westport, and Wilton

Connecticut Offices 211 State Street, 2nd Floor Bridgeport, CT 06604 866.453.0028 203.333.6655 (fax)

Washington, DC Office 1227 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 202.225.5541 202.225-9629 (fax)

888 Washington Boulevard, 10th Floor Stamford, CT 06901 866.453.0028 203.333.6655 (fax)

Jahana Hayes—5th Congressional District email Connecticut’s 5th Congressional District includes the northwestern part of the state, including the towns of Avon, Bethel, Bethlehem, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Burlington, Canaan, Canton, Cheshire, Cornwall, Danbury, Farmington, Goshen, Harwinton, Kent, Litchfield, Meriden, Middlebury, Morris, New Britain, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Norfolk, North Canaan, Plainville, Plymouth, Roxbury, Salisbury, Sharon, Sherman, Simsbury, Southbury, Thomaston, Torrington (part), Warren, Washington, Waterbury (part), Watertown, Wolcott, and Woodbury

Connecticut Office 108 Bank Street 2nd Floor Waterbury, CT 06702 860.223.8412

Washington DC Office 1415 Longworth HOB Washington DC 20515 202.225.4476

Senate

• Blumenthal, Richard — Democrat

• Murphy, Chris — Democrat

House

• Larson, John B. — Democrat: 1st Congressional District

• Courtney, Joe — Democrat: 2nd Congressional District

• DeLauro, Rosa L. — Democrat: 3rd Congressional District

• Himes, Jim — Democrat: 4th Congressional District

• Hayes, Jahana — Democrat: 5th Congressional District

Connecticut News | Brain Injury Home Care Concerns

CONNECTICUT NEWS. Bold Push for Reform in Housing and Home Health Services

CT NEWS: Ned Lamont - Richard Blumenthal - Chris Murphy - Larson, Courtney, DeLauro, Himes, Hayes

To the Esteemed Governor Ned Lamont, Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, and House Representatives John Larson, Joe Courtney, Rosa DeLauro, Jim Himes, and Jahana Hayes,

We, a collective of concerned citizens, are writing to express our profound concern regarding the urgent need for reform and regulation within the Connecticut Department of Social Services (CT DSS). We believe there is a systemic issue of disability rights violations that cannot be overlooked. It is alarming that the CT DSS, an entity meant to protect and empower individuals with disabilities, is reportedly engaged in practices that severely hinder self-advocacy and propagate discrimination.

The alleged instances of housing and service entrapment, along with the operation of sheltered workshops, and engagement in kickback incentive programs and bribery, are deeply troubling. These practices not only undermine the ethical standards expected of such a department but also flagrantly violate the rights of people with disabilities. The approach of "what they don't know won't hurt them" is especially concerning as it perpetuates discrimination and further marginalizes those with disabilities.

Moreover, it is disconcerting that the CT DSS is accused of creating barriers that make it difficult for individuals to document their concerns or challenges. This lack of transparency and accountability obstructs the necessary process of identifying and rectifying these critical issues.

We urge you, as our elected officials and representatives, to take decisive action in addressing these allegations. The commitment of ABI Resources in this matter is noteworthy, but the involvement and decisive actions of government officials such as yourselves are paramount in ensuring meaningful reform.

Immediate action is necessary to reform agency housing and service regulations in federally funded programs, ensuring fair and equitable treatment for all citizens, particularly those with disabilities. The people of Connecticut look to your leadership in safeguarding the rights and voices of individuals with disabilities.

We stand united in this cause, calling for justice, equity, and the upholding of the rights of people with disabilities. Your prompt and decisive response to these concerns is not only anticipated but necessary for the betterment of our community.

ABI Resources is a renowned organization in Connecticut, committed to delivering outstanding support to individuals and families. They work collaboratively with several government and community service providers, such as the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS), Community Options (COU), the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), Connecticut Community Care (CCC/CCCI), Area Agencies on Aging (SWCAA, WCAAA), Allied Community Resources (ACR), Access Health, and United Services. ABI Resources works alongside leading institutions like HFSC, Gaylord, UCONN, Yale, and Hartford, emphasizing high-quality, personalized care. They play a key role in programs like Medicaid MFP (Money Follows the Person), ABI Waiver Program, and PCA Waiver, enhancing the lives of those they serve.

ABI Resources Connecticut home-based and community supported living.

The Hidden Struggle: Inside the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program

"Welcome to our special interview session where we delve into the pressing issues faced by disabled consumers in the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program in Connecticut. Today, we're joined by an advocate from ABI Resources, a company dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities. ABI Resources has been at the forefront of highlighting and addressing the systemic challenges within the program. In this interview, we'll explore these issues and discuss potential solutions."

Can you tell us about the primary challenges disabled consumers are facing in the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program?

"The most pressing challenges include misleading practices where individuals are diverted from their actual rehabilitation needs, a reduction in service quality due to managerial misdirection, and coercive tactics in service utilization. Consumers face financial manipulation, leading to a dependency trap, and there’s a notable lack of transparency and consumer choice in the services provided."

How do these challenges impact the mental health and recovery prospects of disabled individuals?

"These challenges have a profound impact on mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and a sense of helplessness. This psychological distress can significantly impede recovery and rehabilitation, undermining the overall goal of fostering independence and improving quality of life."

What role can federal intervention play in addressing these issues?

"Federal intervention is critical. It can ensure that the program adheres to ethical standards and disability rights, implement stricter oversight, and mandate transparency in service provision. By setting national standards and providing guidelines for ethical practices, federal authorities can help restructure the program to be more consumer-centric."

What specific changes would ABI Resources like to see implemented to improve the situation?

"We advocate for a comprehensive overhaul of policies to prioritize consumer needs. This includes enhanced training for care managers, clearer communication of consumer rights, and a more straightforward advocacy process. Additionally, involving disabled individuals in policy-making and service design is crucial to ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are met."

How can we ensure that the voices of disabled consumers are amplified in decision-making processes?

"Amplifying their voices requires involving them directly in advisory boards and decision-making committees. Regular feedback mechanisms, consumer satisfaction surveys, and a transparent grievance redressal system can also ensure that their experiences and needs are central to service improvements."

"This conversation with ABI Resources highlights the urgent need for systemic reform in the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program in Connecticut. By focusing on consumer-centric solutions and advocating for federal oversight, we can work towards a system that truly supports and empowers individuals with disabilities. Thank you for joining us in this important discussion."

Can you discuss the importance of transparent communication in these services, particularly for families and caregivers?

"Transparent communication is vital. Families and caregivers need to be fully informed about the available services, the rights of the consumers, and the mechanisms in place for feedback and grievances. Clear and regular communication can empower them to make informed decisions and advocate effectively for their loved ones."

In what ways can technology be leveraged to enhance the services provided to disabled consumers?

"Technology offers immense potential to enhance services. Digital tools can facilitate better communication, provide accessible educational resources, and enable remote consultations and support. Additionally, technology can streamline service delivery, making it more efficient and personalized."

How can we better address the unique needs of consumers with brain injuries in these programs?

"Addressing the needs of consumers with brain injuries requires specialized training for care providers, individualized care plans, and access to resources that specifically cater to brain injury rehabilitation. Additionally, involving specialists in the planning and delivery of services is crucial."

What changes would you suggest to ensure that service plans are more aligned with individual rehabilitation goals?

"Service plans should be developed collaboratively with the consumer, their family, and healthcare professionals, focusing on individual rehabilitation goals. Regular reviews and adjustments based on progress and changing needs are essential to ensure these plans remain relevant and effective."

How can the state and federal government better support initiatives that promote independence and self-sufficiency for disabled consumers?

"Support can include funding for programs that focus on skill development, employment training, and community integration. Additionally, policy initiatives that encourage and incentivize service providers to focus on independence and self-sufficiency are essential."

What role should medical professionals play in overseeing and guiding the services provided to disabled individuals?

"Medical professionals should have a central role in overseeing and guiding services. Their expertise is crucial in developing appropriate care plans, monitoring progress, and ensuring that services are aligned with medical and rehabilitation needs."

"Our discussion today with ABI Resources has brought to light the critical challenges and necessary steps for reforming the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program in Connecticut. Their commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of disabled individuals is a testament to the importance of addressing these systemic issues. Thank you for joining us in this insightful and meaningful conversation."

How can we ensure that disabled consumers have a voice in policy-making and service design?

"Ensuring a voice for disabled consumers can be achieved by involving them in advisory committees, focus groups, and policy-making processes. Their direct experiences and insights are invaluable in designing services that truly meet their needs. It's also important to facilitate accessible platforms where their voices can be heard without barriers."

What steps should be taken to better educate consumers and families about their rights and the services available to them?

"Education can be improved through accessible information resources, regular workshops or webinars, and one-on-one co