Follow on Google News News By Tag * Maryland Governor * Executive Order * Developmental Disabilities * First Responders * Ethan Saylor * More Tags... Industry News News By Place Country(s) Industry News
Follow on Google News | The Arc Maryland Responds to Governor's Executive Order to Establish CommissionGovernor O'Malley Forms New Commission for Effective Community Inclusion of Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
By: The Arc Maryland In a press statement issued on February 21 (http://blog.thearc.org/ Individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (includes children, youth and adults with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome) represent 3% of the population living in our communities as valuable contributing citizens. Individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) are disproportionately victimized and disproportionately suspected of criminal activity—7 times more likely to come in contact with law enforcement than the general population. Individuals with I/DD often have co-occurring medical conditions such as neurological, cardiac, or respiratory conditions that make them more vulnerable in stress situations. The use of prone restraints – which is associated with increased risk of asphyxia and aspiration – can result in fatality. (National Review of Restraint Related Deaths of Children and Adults with Disabilities: Carol Fried, President of The Arc Maryland said: “It’s our collective responsibility as a community to understand the unique gifts of our fellow community members, but also to ensure that our protective service systems are savvy in ensuring safe treatment of a vulnerable population.” A comprehensive approach is necessary and The Arc Maryland applauds Governor O’Malley for establishing this Commission. It is critical that our state develops policies and practices for law enforcement and first responders, that there should be a coordinated and comprehensive strategy for response, and all first responders should have appropriate training to effectively respond to individuals with I/DD in a variety of public safety situations. In its continuing efforts to build awareness and improve community inclusion, The Arc Maryland is scheduled to conduct an introductory training entitled “Law Enforcement Response to Developmental Disabilities” About The Arc Maryland: The Arc Maryland is a grassroots advocacy organization dedicated to creating a world where children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have and enjoy equal rights and opportunities. End
Account Email Address Account Phone Number Disclaimer Report Abuse Page Updated Last on: Sep 18, 2013
|
|