Case’s bipartisan committee announces post-session plans

HARTFORD – A bipartisan committee consisting of lawmakers throughout the state announced its plans today to continuing working after the legislative session for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families.
When the legislative session ends on May 7, the I/DD Caucus, co-chaired by state Rep. Jay Case (R-63) and two other legislators, will continue meeting through the summer and fall months. The committee’s hope is to gain even more momentum at the Capitol – furthering its already powerful voice – while a vast majority of lawmakers are taking time off.
“We believe our I/DD community deserves respect and the utmost care,” said Case, who also serves on the General Assembly’s Human Services committee. “Our job is to speak up for those who have no voice, and sometimes, members of the I/DD community are left without a voice. Well, no more. I’m grateful to Sen. Bye and Rep. Hampton for their hard work in the caucus and I’m looking forward to continue working with this great group of lawmakers.”
The committee on Wednesday thanked families, organizations and governmental agencies for helping them establish a unique focus group determined to improve life for I/DD persons in Connecticut. In turn, family members touted the caucus’ agenda.
“We aren’t focused on partisan politics here,” Case continued. “In fact, I/DD community issues aren’t a Republican issue and they aren’t a Democratic issue. These issues are Connecticut’s and we are making sure there is room for them at the table of debate.”
The I/DD caucus has been meeting since early February and has worked closely with the Department of Developmental Services, The ARC of Connecticut and many advocates throughout the state. While the caucus didn’t formally introduce any legislation in 2014, they have started the conversation to analyze policy for next year.
Also on Wednesday, the House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill addressing mandatory reporting for neglect and abuse of persons with autism. Case, a longtime proponent of special needs persons, spoke on the floor in favor of the bill.