1993 House Energy and Commerce Committee Report

House Energy and Commerce Report No. 103-378
To accompany H.R. 3505, Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act Amendments of 1993
Section-by-Section Analysis
(Excerpt: Section 3, adding Purposes and Policies to Findings section of statute)
November 18, 1993

“The Committee recognizes that, with the appropriate resources and support, many individuals with developmental disabilities will live lives that are fully integrated into their respective communities. This potential, however, should not be seen as limiting the choice of individuals and their parents to seek living arrangements that are most suitable to their needs and wishes, whether they be in the community or in institutions."

“The Committee has heard from many parents of individuals with developmental disabilities who reside in large institutional facilities. Among the concerns expressed by these parents is that the goal of independent, community-based living for some individuals not be seen as a mandate for all individuals with disabilities. The Committee recognizes and supports the belief that each individual and each respective family have different goals and needs. The Findings, Purposes, and Policies of this Act should in no way be read to support one kind of residential placement over another."

"Furthermore, the Committee would caution that goals expressed in this Act to promote the greatest possible integration and independence for some individuals with developmental disabilities not be read as a Federal policy support the closure of residential institutions. It would be contrary to Federal intent to use the language or resources of this Act to support such actions, whether in the judicial or legislative system."