Olmstead

In 1999 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled it is illegal to force individuals with disabilities to live in institutions to receive the supports and services they need. This ruling, called the Olmstead Decision, means that everyone has the right to a life in the community. This includes the right of individuals with disabilities to choose the community they wish to live in, with access to the services, programs and activities they need to participate fully in the life of that community.

The Iowa Department of Human Services has developed a five-year strategic plan to make sure individuals with disabilities are able to enjoy the rights guaranteed by the Olmstead Decision. More information about the Department’s strategic priorities and action steps is available at: www.iowamhdsplan.org. The US office for Civil Rights has compiled Olmstead enforcement success stories by state which can be viewed at www.hhs.gov. Additional information about the history of Olmstead activities in Iowa or about Olmstead activities in other states can be found at the website of Iowa’s Olmstead Consumer Task Force: www.olmsteadrealchoicesia.org