Many individuals leaving prison have disabilities, especially intellectual, mental, and physical disabilities. These individuals face unique barriers to obtaining housing, employment, health care, and other supports necessary for a smooth transition back into society. Those on parole or probation are often subject to complex requirements that, if not met, can lead to further incarceration. This webinar provides basic legal information and policy strategies that advocates can use to help incarcerated individuals obtain HCBS; for example, requiring parole and probation materials to be provided in plain language, enrolling individuals in Medicaid prior to release, and recognizing discrimination by service providers. Participants can share questions and solutions. The webinar is open to all and no legal background is required.
Learning Objectives:
Recognize common barriers and discrimination experienced by individuals with disabilities who reintegrate into society after release from prison. Summarize laws that prohibit discrimination and require reasonable accommodations to facilitate reintegration. Evaluate whether your agency or coalition has the resources to engage in outreach activities to help individuals with disabilities reintegrate into society after release from prison.
Speakers:
Rebecca Schafer and Elizabeth Prior, NDRN