ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Fifty-fifth Legislature

Second Regular Session

House: HHS DP 9-0-0-0

HB2113: developmental disabilities; Down syndrome

Sponsor: Representative Udall, LD 25

Caucus & COW

Overview

Modifies the definition of developmental disability to include a severe, chronic disability attributable to down syndrome.

History

Developmental disability means either a strongly demonstrated potential that a child under six years old has a developmental disability or will develop a developmental disability, as determined by specified tests, or a severe chronic disability that:

1) Is attributable to a cognitive disability, epilepsy, cerebral palsy or autism;

2) Is manifested before the age of eighteen;

3) Is likely to continue indefinitely;

4) Results in substantial functional limitations in three or more specified areas of major life activity; and

5) Reflects the need for a combination and sequence of individually planned or coordinated special, generic or interdisciplinary care, treatment or other services that are lifelong or extended duration (A.R.S. § 36-551).

Persons with developmental disabilities are not to be denied the rights, benefits and privileges guaranteed by the United States and Arizona constitutions on the basis of their disability. The following services and protections, amongst others, are also granted to people with developmental disabilities: 1) protection from exploitation and abuse; 2) publicly-supported education services; 3) protection from employer and homeowner discrimination; 4) individualized program planning for disability services; and 5) protection from unnecessary and excessive medication (A.R.S § 36-551.01).

Provisions

1. Expands the definition of developmental disability to include a severe, chronic disability attributable to down syndrome. (Sec. 1)

2. Defines down syndrome as a genetic disorder caused when abnormal cell division results in extra genetic material from chromosome 21, affecting a person's cognitive and physical abilities and causing developmental issues. (Sec. 1)

3. Makes conforming changes. (Sec. 1)

6. ---------- DOCUMENT FOOTER ---------

7. HB 2113

8. Initials AG/JB Page 0 Caucus & COW

10. ---------- DOCUMENT FOOTER ---------