The Commonwealth Caller Spring 2009
To read the full newsletter (PDF):
http://www.deafhh.net/wp/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/spring2009caller.pdf
AT&T Relay is now on AIM!
See:
Mental Health Name Change: The “R-Word”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 30, 2009
CONTACT: Meghan Wedd McGuire
(804) 786-9048
DMHMRSAS COMMISSIONER ENCOURAGES OTHERS TO CONSIDER THEIR USE OF THE “R-WORD”
National advocacy day works to eliminate derogatory use of “retarded” in casual conversation Richmond – March 31, 2009 marks a national day to bring an end to the use of the “R-word” in casual conversation. Led by the Special Olympics, “Spread the Word to End the Word” is meant to encourage people to stop using forms of the word “retarded” in a derogatory manner that is offensive to individuals with intellectual disabilities, their families and others.
“People often use the word ‘retarded’ or ‘retard’ in casual conversation without realizing how hurtful it can be to individuals with intellectual disabilities,” said DMHMRSAS Commissioner James Reinhard, M.D. “The use of ‘retarded’ in a derogatory sense contradicts remarks of families who say their special needs family member lives a fulfilled life and is a source of joy and inspiration to others. I hope people will take this occasion to consider the prejudicial and inaccurate nature of this word.”
In the 2009 Session, the General Assembly passed legislation to change the name of the Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. The new name eliminates the term retardation, more broadly reflects the department’s mission, and allows flexibility to grow into other service areas, like autism. The name change will be effective on July 1, 2009.
“Although our department’s name is not intended to be disparaging, the use of the term retarded is out of date and insensitive to individuals with intellectual disabilities,” said Reinhard. “We are grateful to the General Assembly and the many advocates who supported this name change.”
Ten-Digit Numbering and 911 Calls for Internet-Based TRS: What They Mean for Users
See FCC Consumer Advisory:
http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/trstendigit-user-meaning.pdf
- Thanks to FCC
Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit Act Introduced Again; Find Information, Resources at Better Hearing Institute Website
The Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit Act was introduced on March 19, in the House of Representatives by Representatives Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY) and Vern Ehlers (R-MI). If enacted, the Hearing Aid Tax Credit (H.R. 1646) will provide a $500 per hearing aid tax credit for dependents and people over age 55. It would be available once every 5 years.. The Hearing Aid Tax Credit is actively supported by AG Bell, the Hearing Loss Association of America, American Academy of Audiology, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, International Hearing Society and Hearing Industries Association.
The Better Hearing Institute has created a Hearing Aid Tax Credit website at http://www.hearingaidtaxcredit.org/
Among the information you’ll find there:
- Why tax credits for hearing aids? (Gives data and research for the impact on taxpayers, boomers and seniors, children)
- Copy of the H.R. 1646
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Endorsing Organizations
- List of Co-Sponsors (42 as of 3/25/09)
- States Considering Hearing Aid Tax Credit Legislation (North Dakota, Montana, New York)
- Tips for writing to your member of Congress or state legislature
- An electronic form you can fill out and send as an e-mail or print and mail.
A page will be added for S.1410, the Senate companion for the bill which is expected to be introduced soon.
- Thanks to NVRC, Fairfax
DHHSC on Facebook
Translator
-
Our Sponsors
