Self-Determination
1. Case Selection Priorities (PADD, PAIMI and PAIR):
- a. Guardianship Defense, Restoration of Rights, and Fundamental Rights of Wards.
- b. Parental Rights - status of disability must be primary basis for suspension or termination of parental rights for representation; if insufficient resources for representation or disability is not primary issue -offer technical assistance to public defender or other attorneys.
2. Special Initiatives
a. Involving People with Disabilities in the Public Policy Process (funding from PADD, PAIMI and PAIR)
Goal: EFE will directly involve more people with disabilities in the public policy making process by training people with disabilities, and providing them with technical assistance and up to date legislative and other policy-related information.
b. Education on Self Determination for OSG Wards in Institutions (funding from PAIMI)
Goal: Through outreach and training, EFE will assist OSG wards with mental illness in institutions to better understand their rights to live where they choose.
c. Developing Public Policy Proposal regarding Sterilization Policies in Probate Court (funding from PAIMI)
Goal: EFE, in collaboration with disability, women's and civil rights organizations, will develop a public policy proposal to address the current lack of safeguards and clarity with respect to the involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities. Once developed, EFE will work with disability, women's and civil rights organizations to educate people with disabilities and policy makers about the proposal.
d. Training Institute for Disability Rights (primary funding from state and private funders with additional funding from PADD, PAIMI, PAIR and PATBI)
Goal: Provide disability rights trainings statewide to people with disabilities and their families, as well as professionals and service providers on self-determination issues including: guardianship (including temporary guardianship), advance directives, rights of wards with respect to involuntary placement, and self-advocacy.
