Adds Down syndrome to the definition of developmental disability for the purpose of making Down syndrome an automatic qualifier for Medicaid; expands the definition of developmental disability to include certain individuals below the age of ten who cannot demonstrate that their disability constitutes a substantial handicap to their ability to function in a normal society, but that have a high probability of meeting such criteria later in life; expands the definition of developmental disability to include certain individuals below the age of four.
Impact
The passage of S09448 would have significant implications for the state's healthcare system, particularly regarding Medicaid eligibility. By ensuring that individuals with Down syndrome are automatically considered qualified for Medicaid, the bill seeks to enhance healthcare access for these individuals, which could potentially lead to better overall health outcomes. The expansion of the developmental disability definition is also expected to provide support for younger individuals who may require assistance as they grow.
Summary
Bill S09448 proposes to amend New York's mental hygiene law by adding Down syndrome to the definition of developmental disability. This adjustment aims to allow individuals with Down syndrome to qualify for Medicaid automatically. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of developmental disability to include specific individuals under the age of ten who may not yet demonstrate that their disability constitutes a substantial handicap to their ability to function normally, but are likely to meet the criteria later in life. Furthermore, it includes provisions for certain individuals under the age of four.
Contention
While the bill addresses important issues of access and support for individuals with Down syndrome, there may be points of contention among legislators regarding the criteria for developmental disabilities and how such definitions might impact funding and resources within Medicaid. Some stakeholders may express concerns over the expansion of definitions as it relates to resource allocation and whether the state's budget can sustain the increased demands on Medicaid services associated with additional qualifiers for developmental disabilities.
Same As
Adds Down syndrome to the definition of developmental disability for the purpose of making Down syndrome an automatic qualifier for Medicaid; expands the definition of developmental disability to include certain individuals below the age of ten who cannot demonstrate that their disability constitutes a substantial handicap to their ability to function in a normal society, but that have a high probability of meeting such criteria later in life; expands the definition of developmental disability to include certain individuals below the age of four.
Adds Down syndrome to the definition of developmental disability for the purpose of making Down syndrome an automatic qualifier for Medicaid; expands the definition of developmental disability to include certain individuals below the age of ten who cannot demonstrate that their disability constitutes a substantial handicap to their ability to function in a normal society, but that have a high probability of meeting such criteria later in life; expands the definition of developmental disability to include certain individuals below the age of four.
Expands the real property tax exemption for persons with disabilities to property owners who are a parent or parents of an individual with a disability and such individual lives at such property.
Relates to protecting the communication rights of individuals with disabilities; provides that each person with a disability has the right to communicate in their preferred manner.