Self-Determination Network News: May 2021
May 2021
Connect | Share |Learn | http://sdnetworkwi.org/
New Bills Could Make it Harder for People with Disabilities to Vote
Wisconsin legislators have introduced bills that will make it harder for many people to vote. The Wisconsin Disability Vote Coalition has put together a summary of these bills and how it would impact people. We encourage you to look at this and, if you have concerns about the bills, to contact your legislators.
Stay Up-to-Date about Long-Term Care Advocacy
InControl Wisconsin is sending a letter to the Joint Finance Committee of the state legislature asking the Committee to ensure that if additional funding is added to the budget for Long-Term Care in general or for the workforce crisis, then IRIS should get its fair share. Family Care and nursing homes both received increases in the last two state budgets, but IRIS did not.
The Wisconsin Long-Term Care Workforce Alliance does frequent videos about what's happening with the workforce advocacy. Check out this website for updates on what's happening with the workforce crisis. There are videos on how to talk to legislators about your experiences and concerns. Let your voice be heard!
The Self-Determination Network includes some very talented members and we want to help you to get to know each other a little better. Member Spotlight is a great way for us to get to know each other better.
This month, we're shining the spotlight on Felicia. This self-advocate has been proving doctors wrong since she was born. Stop by this month's Member Spotlight to get to know Felicia.
Who should we shine the spotlight on next?
Check out the Latest Videos!
The Self-Determination Channel is a YouTube channel by and for people with developmental or intellectual disabilities. Unlike other channels, the Self-Determination Channel stands stand out from other channels on YouTube because self-advocates host the videos, and decide and create the content. Videos are posted a couple times a month on a variety of topics self-advocates care about such as technology, employment, caregivers, independent living, and advocacy.
Check out the newest videos on the channel:
We encourage you to subscribe to the Channel (you can do so by clicking the red Subscribe button on any of the video pages).
Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the Self-Determination Network:
- No Oscar, but Nomination a Win for the Disability Community: The popular documentary, "Crip Camp," didn't win an Oscar, but many people with disabilities feel the nomination alone was a win. Learn why this is.
- Inclusive Deodorant: Most people were never think of a stick of deodorant as being an obstacle, but for people with visual impairments or limb motor challenges, putting on deodorant is a difficult task. Read about a how one company designed an inclusive deodorant container.
- Initiative to Hire People with Disabilities: A large technology recently announced a big initiative to hire people with disabilities. Find out what the company plans to do.
- Wisconsin Lawmaker Asked for Accommodations: A Wisconsin lawmaker is asking the Assembly to allow him to participate in floor sessions remotely. Read about the ongoing situation.
- American Rescue Plan to Help Medicaid Services: The American Rescue Plan has over $12 billion for states to expand Medicaid home-and-community-based programs for people with disabilities. Find out what the plan entails.
- Emergency Broadband Benefit Program: The Emergency Broadband Benefit is a Federal Communication Commission program to help families and households struggling to afford internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about this program and find out how to apply.
- Vaccine Survey Findings: Two research studies have been done on vaccine statistics for people with disabilities. Read about what the studies found.
- Seeking Applicants for Emergency Preparedness Committees: The Office of Emergency Preparedness and Response is seeking applicants for two new committees to provide recommendations on enhancing public health preparedness, response, and recovery for people with disabilities. Applications are due June 12th.
- Family Caregiver Report: A new report summarizing listening sessions about the struggles and needs of family caregivers was recently released. Learn what the sessions revealed.
- Spending Flexibility: States have lots of flexibility on what they can use the extra $12.67 billion for Medicaid home-and-community-based services on. Learn what states are using the money for.
- New Vaccine Guidelines for Facilities: Government officials have released new guidelines for the COVID vaccine at facilities serving people with disabilities. Find out what they say.
Here's a sample of upcoming events listed on the Self-Determination Network:
- Webinar: Assembly Areas: June 3rd, 1:30p.m to 3p.m., Online
- Medicare Virtual Fair: June 23rd, 2p.m. to 6p.m., Online
Post your event on the Self-Determination Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? Contact Stacy Ellingen.
The Self-Determination Network is powered by InControl Wisconsin and supported financially by our members and Sponsors. We couldn't keep this Network going with you! Find out how you can help support the Network.
