Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
# Summary
The Latonya Reeves Freedom Act of 2023 strengthens protections for people with disabilities who need long-term care services and supports. It requires states and insurance providers to offer community-based care (such as at home or in small group settings) instead of institutions, and prohibits discrimination based on disability status in providing these services. The law expands on a 1999 Supreme Court ruling that said people with disabilities have the right to live in their communities rather than in institutions.
The bill requires states to develop comprehensive transition plans within 42 months of enactment, with measurable goals to move people out of institutions and into community settings by no later than 12 years after the law takes effect. States must also evaluate current services, assess housing availability, and report annually on progress. The Department of Justice enforces the law and can impose civil penalties up to $100,000 for first violations and $200,000 for subsequent violations. Individuals can sue for damages and injunctive relief if denied community-based care. The law does not specify new funding but requires states to identify how to finance the transition.
Take Action
Your position
Add a comment
to comment on this bill.
Annotate the text
Highlight any passage on the Summary or Full Text tab to attach a note. Annotations appear on the Annotations tab.