REPRESENTATION OF PROTECTED AND INCAPACITATED PERSONS Incapacitated means the person is incapable of handling his or her medical, financial or personal affairs. A protected person is someone who, through a legal process, has been deemed to be incapacitated. Appointed by Court Conservator (W. Va. Code §44A–1–8) Manages the estate and financial affairs of a protected person. May be “limited” (W. Va. Code §44A–2–12) or “temporary” (W. Va. Code §44A–2–14). Pays bills; responsible for bank account(s); may buy and/or sell real and/or personal property. Cannot be held personally responsible by creditors for the protected person’s debts, such as medical bills. Must file periodic reports with the court unless the court waives the reporting requirement. Guardian (W. Va. Code §44A–1–8) Responsible for the personal affairs of a protected person. May be “limited” (W. Va. Code§44A–2–11) or “temporary” (W. Va. Code §44A–2–14) Makes financial, medical and other miscellaneous decisions, such as residency. Cannot be held personally responsible by creditors for the protected person’s debts, such as medical bills. Court may appoint separate Conservator. Must file periodic reports with the court unless the court waives the reporting requirement. Guardian Ad Litem (W. Va. Code §56–4–10) Attorney appointed by the court to represent a minor child or an individual who is mentally disabled. May be appointed temporarily until another more permanent resolution is decided upon, such as Guardian and/or Conservator. Duty to faithfully represent the interests of the individual for whom he or she is appointed. Cannot be held personally responsible by creditors for the protected person’s debts, such as medical bills. If appointment lasts for an extended period of time, must file periodic reports with the court unless the court waives the reporting requirement. Appointed by the Individual (Principal) General Power of Attorney (POA) (W. Va. Code §39B–1–101) A notarized, or otherwise acknowledged, written document. Takes effect immediately unless the document clearly states otherwise. May be “durable” or “non-durable”; however, POA presumed to be “durable” (i.e., not terminated by the principal’s incapacity) unless the document clearly states otherwise. POA may make financial, medical and other miscellaneous decisions on behalf of the principal as specified in the document of appointment. POA is a mechanism that may be easily exploited to take advantage of the principal. Important that the POA is someone in whom the principal has complete trust. Cannot be held personally responsible by creditors for the principal’s debts, such as medical bills. Existence of a POA “may eliminate, limit or supersede the need for the assistance or protection of a Guardian or Conservator, and any person so appointed [POA] is to be the first preferred nominee for Guardian or Conservator.” (W. Va. Code §44A–1–3) Living Will (W. Va. Code §16–30–6) A written document which must be witnessed when signed. Dictates decisions about the principal’s health care if he or she is unable to communicate those decisions to health care personnel. May be a good option for a principal who believes that no one else can be trusted to carry out his or her wishes. Cannot take into account all of the circumstances that may exist at the time the Living Will is needed, including advancements in medicine since its signing. A Living Will “may eliminate, limit or supersede the need for the assistance or protection of a Guardian or Conservator, and any person so appointed [by the Living Will] is to be the first preferred nominee for Guardian or Conservator.” (W. Va. Code §44A–1–3) Medical Power of Attorney (MPOA) (W. Va. Code §16–30–6) A written document which must be witnessed when signed. If the principal becomes incapacitated, grants authority to another person to make health care decisions on behalf of the principal. MPOA has the right of access to the principal’s medical information and the right to discuss that information with the principal’s health care providers. Cannot be held personally responsible by creditors for the principal’s debts, such as medical bills. Existence of a MPOA “may eliminate, limit or supersede the need for the assistance or protection of a Guardian or Conservator, and any person so appointed [MPOA] is to be the first preferred nominee for Guardian or Conservator.” (W. Va. Code §44A–1–3) The following persons may not serve as MPOA or successor MPOA: the principal’s treating health care provider; an employee of the treating health care provider who is not related to the principal; the operator of a health care facility serving the principal; or an employee of the operator of a health care facility serving the principal who is not related to the principal. (W. Va. Code §16–30–4(c)) Appointed by Medical Provider Medical Surrogate (W. Va. Code §16–30–8) Must first inquire as to the existence and availability of a MPOA or Guardian. Statute includes list of priorities regarding who may serve. Selected by the attending physician or advanced nurse practitioner to make health care decisions on behalf of an incapacitated person. Least favored form of making health care decisions because the individual does not choose the surrogate, rather the attending medical provider does. Cannot be held personally responsible for the incapacitated person’s debts, such as medical bills. The existence of a Medical Surrogate “may eliminate, limit or supersede the need for the assistance or protection of a Guardian or Conservator, and any person so appointed is to be the first preferred nominee for Guardian or Conservator.” (W. Va. Code §44A–1–3) Legal Disclaimer All information contained within this document is general legal information and does not constitute legal advice. West Virginia Advocates, Inc. does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information as laws are subject to change. You are encouraged to seek advice from an attorney to insure that the information is up to date and accurate. Funding Funding for this publication is provided by the Rehabilitation Services Administration, the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Published by Disability Rights of West Virginia (DRWV). Content is solely the responsibility of DRWV and does not reflect the official views of the funding agencies. Version 2.0 Representation of Protected and Incapacitated Persons (PDF)

GUIDES A Parent's Advocacy Guide to Special Education Psychiatric Advance Directives Supported Decision-Making Tenants and Landlords Booklet Tenants and Landlords Booklet (Large Print) Voting Guides Your Guide to Services from the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services

TEMPORARY ACCESSIBILITY SOLUTIONS FOR ELECTION DAY The H elp A merica V ote A ct (HAVA) is a federal law which ensures that each and every American citizen who is legally eligible to vote is able to fully exercise their right to vote; it makes the voting process and the voting place accessible to ALL eligible voters. P rotection and A dvocacy for V oting A ccess (PAVA) was Established in 2003 as part of HAVA. PAVA ensures that legally eligible individuals with disabilities have full participation in the electoral process through voter education regarding registering to vote, casting a vote and accessing the polling sites. West Virginia Advocates (WVA) is the grantee for PAVA. The following are accommodations that can be made to temporarily resolve common accessibility issues on Election Day: Problem: Entrance door to the building is heavy and difficult to open. Solution: Keep the door propped open or station volunteers near the door to open it for voters. Problem: The accessible entrance is different from other entrance(s). Solution: Place signs at key points/areas to direct voters with disabilities to the voting area. Problem: The voting area is not on an accessible route and cannot be made accessible. Solution: Look for another area where accessible voting may be provided. Problem: Lack of Accessible Parking Solution: Traffic cones, or other temporary elements, may be used to mark the spaces and access aisles that are closest to the accessible entrance. Provide a sign designating each accessible parking space. Problem: The accessible route crosses a curb and no curb ramp is provided or one or two steps are part of the walkway leading to the accessible entrance Solution: Install a portable ramp with edge protection and handrails. Remember: The accessible voting area must be on an accessible route and have an accessible entrance with adequate circulation and maneuvering space for voters who use wheelchairs or scooters or who walk with mobility aids. Each polling site should have at least ONE accessible electronic voting machine. The U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) has created a video on Making Polling Places Accessible. It can be found online at https://www.eac.gov/making_polling_places_accessible/ . The ADA Checklist for Polling Places can be found online at http://www.ada.gov/votingchecklist.htm . WVA’s Voting Rights video, People With Disabilities Vote!, can be found online at: https://www.youtube.com/user/wvadvocates. Please contact Disability Rights of West Virginia at 304-346-0847 or toll free at 1-800-950-5250 if you have any questions regarding the information provided, or need assistance. WVA’s website may be an additional resource for you. It includes a wealth of useful information on various disability and non-disability topics. Go to www.drofwv.org and choose the “Resources” tab. From there, scroll down to the category that interests you. Please check back for frequently for updates and additions. WVA can also be found on Facebook. Go to https://www.facebook.com/drofwv then “like” us to receive updates. Funding for this publication is provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living, Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Temporary Accessibility Solutions for Election Day (PDF) Temporary Accessibility Solutions for Election Day (DOCX)

VOTING GUIDES Content: Voting Guides Registering To Vote On Voting Day – Answers to Your Questions Absentee Ballots – Answers to Your Questions Accessible Voting – Questions About Your Right to Vote Temporary Accessibility Solutions for Election Day Voting From the State Hospitals WV Polling Site Accessibility Reports - arranged by County Additional Contacts Credits and Funding Access your Polling Sites for Accessibility People vote in many different places, such as libraries, schools, fire stations, churches, and even in shops or other private businesses and are known as polling places during elections. These places need to be accessible to people with disabilities. The ADA Checklist for Polling Places provides guidance to election officials for determining whether a polling place already has the basic accessibility features needed by most voters with disabilities or can be made accessible on Election Day using temporary solutions to remove barriers. Polling Place Accessibility Survey We would like to hear about your experiences while voting! Click here to fill out and submit our online Polling Place Accessibility Survey Click here to download and print our Polling Place Accessibility Survey NOTE: This version of our survey will need to be mailed to us. PAVA Publications Voting Dates PAVA Brochure Am I Eligible to Vote? Electronic Absentee Voting for Persons with Physical Disabilities Guardianship and Voting

SATISFACTION SURVEY We have enjoyed working with you. We would like some feedback on the services you received from Disability Rights of West Virginia (DRWV). Your answers are very important to us and will help us to provide better services to our clients. Please complete this survey and submit it to us. The information you provide to us will only be used to improve services to you and others. Thank you very much for taking the time to answer our survey. Please insert the number you were given in the box below: Were the staff at DRWV nice/polite to you? Yes No Did DRWV keep you up to date on your case and answer all your questions? Yes No Did your problem/complaint get solved? Yes No After working with DRWV, would you be able to help yourself if you have the same problem? Yes No Would you call DRWV again or refer someone else to DRWV? Yes No Overall, how happy/satisfied were you with DRWV's services? Very Happy Happy Unhappy Very Unhappy Additional Comments: Submit Thanks for submitting!

NEWS LETTER September Disability Rights of West Virginia Representative Payee Program for Beneficiaries of Social Security Article by Michael Schwartz, DRWV Advocate While most people receive their Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments directly, some need assistance in managing their benefits. Payments to these individuals are paid through a representative payee who receives the check on behalf of the beneficiary and provides for their personal needs. The SSA.gov website states: “Social Security's Representative Payment Program provides benefit payment management for our beneficiaries who are incapable of managing their Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. We appoint a suitable representative payee (payee) who manages the payments on behalf of the beneficiaries. Generally, we look for family or friends to serve as payees. When friends or family members are not able to serve as payees, we look for qualified organizations. We also offer the option to advance designate up to three individuals who could serve as payee for you if the need arises”. The Representative Payee Program was initiated in 1939 when Congress authorized the Social Security Administration to make benefit payments to an authorized person or organization when it was in the best interest of the beneficiary. There have been several improvements and revisions to the program since its inception to ensure that the program and appointments are not abused. To determine if a representative payee is needed, SSA completes an assessment, or one is automatically assigned for children or individuals determined to be found incompetent by a court. SSA will also evaluate the suitability of the payee for appointing them to manage a beneficiary’s funds. Representative Payees can be family, friends, legal guardians, or organizations. Monitoring of Representative Payees The SSA primarily relies on annual accounting reports and periodic on-site reviews to monitor the performance of representative payees and ensure benefits are being used properly. The Social Security Act requires on-site reviews for certain organizational and individual payees, and the SSA conducts additional discretionary reviews of other payees. There has also been the inclusion of the local P&A to conduct monitoring on behalf of SSA. The P&As conduct educational visits for new fee-for-service payee organizations, issue corrective action plans for payees not in compliance with the SSA’s requirements and refer beneficiaries to other programs and services as warranted. Both organizational and individual payees are subject to the reviews. P&A reviewers will also be looking at the beneficiaries general health, well-being, and living conditions to ensure that the needs are being met by the representative payee and the expenses paid on their behalf. Responsibilities of Representative Payees The primary duty of the representative payee is to ensure that the beneficiary’s food, shelter, and everyday needs are met. Representative payees, secondly, are responsible for using funds to cover any medical and dental care that is not covered by the individual’s health insurance. Representative payees should act in the best interest of the beneficiary in the management of the funds. There must be a focus on the current and foreseeable needs of the beneficiary. Records are maintained to account for expenses, and the representative payee should report any changes in information for the beneficiary that a required. This would include changes in address, eligibility, marital status, additional income received or any other events that could potentially effect benefits. Meetings should be conducted frequently with beneficiaries to create budgets, review spending, and provide information on benefits. Rep payees should also assist with obtaining other services to assist with needed services that include food stamps, tax returns, and applications for services needed to assist in meeting needs. Keep in mind that representative payees are only responsible for managing funds received from Social Security or SSI. They are not authorized to control additional forms of income. All information contained in this article can be found at ssa.gov. If you would like additional information on the representative payee program or if you are having issues with a current representative payee, please contact SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to request an appointment to discuss your concerns or Disability Rights of West Virginia at 1-800-950-5250.

2024 Priorities and Objectives Priority 1: Childre n and Y outh with Disabilities Receive an Appropriate Education DRWV will provide direct advocacy services on behalf of up to twelve (12) students with disabilities who are receiving no educational services, or at risk of receiving no educational services. (see footnote 1) (PADD, PAIMI (see footnote 3), PAIR, PATBI). DRWV will use social media to post information about special education at least one (1) time per quarter, including stories of successful outcomes for students with disabilities. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI). DRWV will continue to collaborate with the West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council (WVDDC) to distribute the Parent’s Advocacy Guide to Special Education to parents of school age children with disabilities. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI, PAAT). DRWV will systemically monitor and advocate on behalf of students with disabilities related to individual counties and/or statewide policy changes. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI, PAAT). DRWV will systemically advocate/litigate for children with disabilities who have been subjected to unnecessary exclusionary discipline. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI). Priority 2: People with Disabil ities Make Decisions About Where They Live, and the Supports and Services They Receive DRWV will systemically monitor and advocate for individuals found eligible for services under the Medicaid Title XIX Home and Community Based Waiver programs in West Virginia to ensure client centered services, choice of providers and quality services in their home community. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI). DRWV will provide direct advocacy services for up to twenty (20) individuals found eligible for services under the three Medicaid Title XIX Home and Community Based Waiver programs, or Medicaid Personal Care in West Virginia to ensure access to client centered services, choice of providers and quality services in their home community. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI). DRWV will systemically monitor and advocate for children to receive mental health services in the community. (PAIMI). DRWV will advocate/litigate for the civil rights of children with disabilities who have been abused and neglected while they were dependent on the WV child welfare system. (PADD, PAIMI). DRWV will advocate/litigate for the civil rights of individuals with disabilities who are involved in the criminal justice system and have been found by a court to be incompetent to stand trial or not guilty by reason of mental illness. (PADD, PAIMI). DRWV will systemically monitor and advocate for individuals in psychiatric facilities to have access to community placement in the least restrictive environment. (PADD, PAIMI). Priority 3: People with Disabilities are Free from Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation, and Other Rights Violations DRWV will receive, review, investigate, refer for investigation, and/or conduct monitoring to identify evidence or allegations of death, serious injury, or other prohibited conduct that suggests or potentially suggests probable cause that abuse or neglect was involved, including alleged abuse/neglect that occurs during acts of omission or acts of commission involving seclusion, restraint, use of aversive techniques, excessive force, financial exploitation, and/or other punitive or prohibited methods of controlling, harming, threatening to control or harm, and/or failing to provide necessary services to individuals with disabilities who receive services from state or private service facilities or providers or from WV schools. (see footnotes 1, 2) (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR) DRWV will advocate for disability related medical/psychiatric treatment, including properly prescribed and administered medication, to be available to individuals of all ages who are incarcerated that come to the attention of DRWV. (see footnote 1) (PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will provide direct advocacy services to individuals who meet DRWV’s case selection criteria and are at risk of abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation when requested by the individual or their legal representative. (see footnote 1) (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will open a service request for all individuals in psychiatric facilities in West Virginia who request advocacy services, with priority given to patients at the two (2) state psychiatric hospitals. (PADD, PAIMI all, PATBI) DRWV will conduct monitoring of at least twenty (20) Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IIDs) as well as address systemic issues as identified. (PADD) DRWV will conduct a minimum of fifteen (15) monitorings of WV Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation facilities to ensure that appropriate mental health/medical treatment is being provided to individuals with disabilities. (PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will conduct a minimum of fifteen (15) monitorings of residential placements who serve children with disabilities and address systems issues as identified. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will conduct a minimum of sixty (60) monitorings of the two (2) state psychiatric hospitals in West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PAIMI) DRWV will conduct a minimum of twenty-four (24) monitorings of psychiatric facilities not operated by the state of West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PAIMI) DRWV will conduct a minimum of twelve (12) monitorings of the four (4) nursing homes operated by the state of West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will conduct a minimum of twenty (20) monitorings of nursing homes not operated by the state of West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will conduct monitoring of at least ten (10) Specialized Family Care (SFC) homes in West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PADD) DRWV will conduct a minimum of twenty-five (25) monitorings of Assisted Living Facilities in West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will conduct a minimum of five (5) monitorings of forensic group homes in West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PADD, PAIMI, PATBI) DRWV will provide representation for up to three (3) individuals with disabilities to prevent, modify, or terminate inappropriate guardianships. (PADD, PAIMI, PATBI) DRWV will conduct a minimum of ten (10) monitorings of Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) Waiver group homes in West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PADD) DRWV will assist individuals with disabilities who are incarcerated in WV Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation facilities with accessing reentry services available to them. (PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will conduct a minimum of four (4) monitorings of Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) crisis sites in West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PADD) DRWV will conduct a minimum of ten (10) monitorings of public schools in West Virginia with a focus on the use of cameras in classrooms. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will conduct a minimum of ten (10) monitorings of legally unlicensed homes in West Virginia and address systems issues as identified. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) Priority 4: People with Disabilities Have Access Provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA), and the Fair Housing Act DRWV will advocate for up to twelve (12) people with disabilities who meet DRWV’s case selection criteria (see footnote 1). (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will complete accessibility studies when access issues are discovered by DRWV or brought to our attention. (PAIR) Priority 5: People with Disabilities Have Access to Assistive Technology DRWV will provide advocacy for up to ten (10) people with disabilities to gain or maintain access to assistive technology and related supports (see footnote 1). (PAAT) DRWV will actively participate as a member of the West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) Advisory Council (PAAT) DRWV will use social media to post information about assistive technology at least one (1) time per quarter. (PAAT) Priority 6: People with Disabilities Have Access to Centers for Independent Living, Competitive/Integrated Employment, and Employment-Related Services DRWV will provide direct advocacy services for up to twenty-five (25) individuals requesting assistance who are applying for, eligible for, or receiving services from the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS), supported employment programs and other programs funded under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) (see footnote 1). (CAP) DRWV will provide direct advocacy services for up to twenty-five (25) individuals requesting assistance who are Supplemental Security Insurance/Social Security Disability Insurance (SSI/SSDI) beneficiaries and want to work but are encountering barriers per the priorities established by the Social Security Administration (SSA) (see footnote 1). (PABSS) DRWV will provide direct advocacy services for up to five (5) individuals requesting assistance who are applying for, eligible for, or receiving services from a Center for Independent Living (CIL) (see footnote 1). (CAP) DRWV will actively support the Statewide Rehabilitation Council’s (SRC) mandate to monitor and advise on the activities of WVDRS. (CAP) DRWV will conduct outreach about CAP and PABSS to individuals with disabilities, families, service providers, WVDRS, and various state and local organizations. (CAP, PABSS) Priority 7: People with Disabilities Have Full Access to the Electoral Process DRWV will act to increase equal access for individuals with disabilities requesting assistance to participate in the voting process, including polling places, voting equipment, and voter registration. (PAVA) DRWV will educate at least fifty (50) people with disabilities, family members, and service providers about the voting process and their right to vote. (PAVA) DRWV will work in conjunction with the Secretary of State’s office to educate County Clerks and election divisions about the voting rights of people with disabilities. (PAVA) Priority 8: DRWV Will Conduct Outreach and Education, and Support the Work of Others to Promote Self-Advocacy DRWV will actively support the missions of groups with grassroots advocacy missions, not including lobbying. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) DRWV will develop and conduct disability rights outreach to educate unserved and underserved populations of people with disabilities about their rights and DRWV’s services. (PAAT, PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI, PAVA, CAP, PABSS) DRWV will actively participate as a member of the West Virginia Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board. (PATBI) DRWV will actively participate in efforts to support sexual violence prevention for people with disabilities in WV. (PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, PATBI) Priority 9: DRWV will conduct reviews of and provide education to Representative Payees who handle income for individuals with disabilities from Supplemental Security Insurance/Social Security Disability Insurance (SSI/SSDI) to verify that they are using the benefits properly on behalf of the beneficiary and are carrying out their responsibilities and duties correctly. (PABRP) No Objectives are needed for this Priority as they are detailed in the grant agreement. Priority 10: DRWV will provide advocacy services for class members in compliance with WV DHHR statement of work and state and federal court directives in Civil Action 81-585 E.H. v. Matin (1983), Hartley Decree, and Civil Action 78-2099 Medley vs. Ginsberg (1981), Medley Decree. (MHAP) No Objectives are needed for this Priority as they are detailed in the statement of work. Information and Referral (I&R): DRWV provides Information and Referral to all callers related to disability rights issues. Individual program budgets determine availability of services. FOOTNOTES 1. Case Selection Criteria: A. There is a significant risk of abuse and neglect. Client is danger of or has experienced severe bodily harm. The client is at risk or a has experienced a serious financial harm. B. The client is institutionalized and ready for reintegration to the community and there is a barrier to discharge. C. A clear violation of the ADA has occurred. D. The case is a special education matter and the child is not receiving consistent educational services, or is at serious risk of receiving no services, or the needs related to the child’s disability have been completely ignored by the school district. E. It is a matter concerning voting rights, assistive technology, a barrier to employment for a beneficiary of SSI or SSDI, Representative Payees, or services under the Rehabilitation Act. Additionally, all cases MUST: • Meet program eligibility for one of DRWV’s federally funded programs; • be in agreement with DRWV’s mission; • be consistent with our ethical standards; • possess significant legal merit; and • funds/resources must be available. At the discretion of the Executive Director or Legal Director a case can be selected for direct representation because of the vulnerability of the client or the potential to effect policy or systemic change or another compelling reason. Abuse and neglect investigations will be prioritized as follows: seclusion & restraint with death or serious injury, suspicious death, and incidents occurring in locations with repeated complaints of abuse and neglect. In complaints where abuse or neglect are currently being investigated by law enforcement, DRWV will delay its investigation until law enforcement has completed their investigation. 2. “Serious injury” is defined as physical harm or injury to an individual with disabilities and includes, but is not limited to acts such as: rape or sexual assault; striking; the use of excessive force when placing an individual with disabilities in bodily restraints; or use of restraints not in compliance with state and federal laws. 3. The issue must be directly related to an individual's diagnosed mental illness in order to qualify for services. Programs Client Assistance Program (CAP) Serves individuals who have applied for or are receiving services from DRS, Center for Independent Living, supported employment programs, and other programs funded under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. Protection and Advocacy for Assistive Technology (PAAT) Serves children and adults with disabilities who need assistive technology devices and related support services to maintain or increase their skills, independence, and community integration. Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS) Assists individuals who receive SSI or SSDI break down barriers to employment. Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities (PADD) Serves individuals with developmental disabilities or a severe & chronic mental or physical impairment that begins before age 22 and investigates abuse & neglect complaints on their behalf. Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) Serves individuals with significant mental illness or emotional impairment and investigates abuse & neglect complaints on their behalf. Protection and Advocacy for Individual Rights (PAIR) Serves individuals with disabilities that substantially limit one or more major life activities and who are not eligible for advocacy under PAIMI or PADD and do not have a CAP eligible issue. Protection and Advocacy for Traumatic Brain Injury (PATBI) Serves individuals with traumatic brain injury who are significantly limited in activities of daily living. Protection and Advocacy for Voting Access (PAVA) Carries out the mandate of the “Help America Vote Act”, legislation passed to ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in the electoral process. Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries with Representative Payees (PABRP) Carries out the mandate of the “Strengthening Protections for Social Security Beneficiaries Act 2018” which protects beneficiaries of SSI/SSDI who have representative payees. Medley/Hartley Advocacy Program (MHAP) This state grant provides advocacy to individuals with developmental disabilities in compliance with state and federal court directives in Civil Action 81-585 E.H. v. Matin (1983), Hartley Decree, and Civil Action 78-2099 Medley vs. Ginsberg (1981), Medley Decree. Approved by the DRWV BOD July 18, 2023 To download a pdf, click the link below: Download

2024 DRWV ADVOCACY IN MOTION 11/27/24 - West Virginia Watch West Virginia solicits company to manage its contract nurses, won’t answer questions. Since 2015, the state has spent $284 million on contract positions in state-run facilities, including long-term and psychiatric care. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/11/27/west-virginia-solicits-company-to-manage-its-contract-nurses-wont-answer-questions/ 10/10/24 - West Virginia Public Broadcasting Watchdog Agency Announces Plan To Sue State Secretary Of Health Facilities. Disability Rights of West Virginia (DRWV) sent a notice of claim Monday to members of the media and state officials, alleging that Michael Caruso, secretary of the Department of Health Facilities (DHF) is failing to protect the rights of patients served by state health care facilities. Michael Folio, the legal director of DRWV, alleged that the quality of care at these facilities is suffering because mandatory reporters are not sufficiently reporting instances of suspected abuse. Under state law, a mandatory reporter is a person legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect of vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly and people with disabilities. https://wvpublic.org/watchdog-agency-announces-plan-to-sue-state-secretary-of-health-facilities/ 7/3/24 - WCHS Eyewitness News Delegate suggests surplus could be used to build new Mildred Mitchell-Bateman Hospital. Michael Folio, legal director for Disability Rights of West Virginia, worries that this potential allocation would be misguided. For years, he has called on the state to do something about the "warehousing" of patients in state facilities who could be better served in the community on waiver and community-based programs and save the taxpayers money. https://wchstv.com/newsletter-daily/delegate-suggests-surplus-could-be-used-to-build-new-mildred-mitchell-bateman-hospital 6/13/24 - NBC News A foster care system in crisis: West Virginia faces a legal reckoning West Virginia faces a legal reckoning. A sweeping class-action lawsuit accusing the state of failing to protect its foster children appears set to go to trial in the fall. The federal suit could force dramatic changes in how the system is run. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/foster-care-system-crisis-west-virginia-faces-legal-reckoning-rcna147227 5/31/24 - Hoppy Kercheval on X Breaking: Sources say Justice Admin is planning for a press conference late next week, possibly Thursday, to release details of its investigation into how State Police and CPS handled the case of a 14-year-old Boone County girl who eventually died and was found in skeletal state. https://x.com/HoppyKercheval/status/1796519894093086960 5/29/24 - WOWK 13 News A high-ranking member of West Virginia’s foster care system has resigned, and it’s raising concerns about the agency. Pamela Woodman-Kaehler resigned her position as foster care ombudsman in West Virginia, a position she has held since 2019, when the job was first created. “She was a champion for children. Sadly however, the leadership of the agency did not give her the support necessary so that she could actually thrive in her position,” said Mike Folio, Legal Director for Disability Rights of West Virginia. https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/after-resignation-there-are-more-concerns-over-west-virginia-foster-care/ 5/28/24 - Metro News The ombudsman for West Virginia’s overloaded foster care system has resigned, according to the state Department of Health. Pamela Woodman-Kaehler’s resignation will take effect June 6. The resignation of Pamela Woodman-Kaehler is a sad chapter in DHHR’s and DoHS’ failed history to protect vulnerable children,” said Mike Folio, legal director for Disability Rights West Virginia. https://wvmetronews.com/2024/05/28/first-ombudsman-for-west-virginias-pressured-foster-care-system-has-resigned/ 5/28/24 - WSAZ News Channel 3 W.Va. Department of Health official announces resignation. Michael Folio, legal director for Disability Rights of West Virginia, released the following statement: “The resignation of Pamela Woodman-Kaehler is a sad chapter in DHHR’s and DoHS’ failed history to protect vulnerable children. Sworn testimony exists that shows former DHHR Sec. Bill Crouch and current DoHS Deputy Secretary Cammie Chapman have meddled in the Foster Care Ombudsman’s affairs, directed her to conceal information from the Legislature, and withheld information from her that would have enabled her to conduct investigations to protect the state’s vulnerable children. Pam is a champion for children and her resignation is a sad chapter in the state’s failure to safeguard children.” https://www.wsaz.com/2024/05/28/wva-department-health-official-announces-resignation/ 5/28/24 - West Virginia Public Broadcasting Disability Rights West Virginia (DRWV) has filed a lawsuit on behalf of an adult male, referred to as J.P., with developmental disabilities that says he has been physically abused and wrongfully held at William R. Sharpe Hospital for more than 570 days . https://wvpublic.org/man-held-at-sharpe-hospital-sues-state-officials/ 5/24/24 - WCHS TV 8 Eyewitness News There are new developments in the death of a Boone County teenager as a notice of a lawsuit was filed Thursday. Disability Rights WV legal director Mike Folio filed a notice of suit and cease and desist against West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice and Department of Human Services Cabinet Secretary Cynthia Persily in the death of 14-year-old Kyneddi Miller. "It's reached the point where there is level of deception, a level of concealment and no one is focused on the young girl who died," Folio said. https://wchstv.com/news/local/disability-rights-wv-demands-transparency-in-kyneddi-millers-case-sent-cease-desist 5/23/24 - WOWK 13 News Disability Rights of WV plan to sue Gov. Jim Justice, Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, the Department of Human Services and its secretary, Cynthia Persily over the alleged concealment of documents relating to the death of a Boone County child. They allege the governor’s office and the Department of Human Services have held documents about child abuse cases, investigations and findings that are federally mandated to be publicly disclosed to “evade accountability.” https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/advocacy-group-planning-to-sue-gov-justice-morrisey-over-boone-county-childs-death/ 5/23/24 - WSAZ News Channel 3 An advocacy system has put West Virginia officials on notice as it considers a potential lawsuit alleging state officials have violated state law in refusing to disclose records pertaining to the alleged child neglect death of Kyneddi Miller, 14, of Boone County. Disability Rights of West Virginia says it sent the notice Thursday to Gov. Jim Justice, Department of Human Services Secretary Cynthia Persily and Attorney General Patrick Morrisey. https://www.wsaz.com/2024/05/23/advocacy-group-threatens-sue-wva-amid-wsaz-investigation/ 5/13/24 - West Virginia Watch Patient sues Sharpe Hospital, says he was wrongfully held there for more than 570 days and abused. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/05/13/patient-sues-sharpe-hospital-says-he-was-wrongfully-held-there-for-more-than-570-days-and-abused/ 5/9/24 - 12WBOY Disability Rights of West Virginia (DRWV) has filed a civil complaint against Sharpe Hospital, its administrators, the Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Health Facilities and the Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. The suit, claims that an adult male with a developmental disability was illegally discharged from a group home in Wood County, unlawfully committed to Sharpe Hospital in Lewis County and has been “battered and physically abused.” https://www.wboy.com/news/lewis/lawsuit-claims-patient-at-sharpe-hospital-was-unlawfully-committed-abused/ 4/16/24 - 12WBOY West Virginia disability rights advocates protest cuts in state budget. On Sunday, advocates and families of people with intellectual disabilities rallied at the state capital in Charleston to protest a 10% budget cut to the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Waiver . The IDD Waiver provides financial aid to help families pay for at-home or community-based care for their loved ones with intellectual disabilities instead of having them committed to a state psychiatric hospital. Disability Rights of West Virginia’s Legal Director Michael Folio has called the waiver “a lifeline.” https://www.wboy.com/news/west-virginia/west-virginia-disability-rights-advocates-protest-cuts-in-state-budget/ 4/16/24 - West Virginia Watch Lawmakers say Justice admin canceled meeting to discuss man’s gruesome death in state hospital. ‘This is a cover up. Plain and simple,’ said Mike Folio, legal director for Disability Rights West Virginia, who was scheduled to speak with lawmakers . https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/04/16/lawmakers-say-justice-admin-canceled-meeting-to-discuss-mans-gruesome-death-in-state-hospital/ 4/3/24 - West Virginia Public Broadcasting W.Va. Grapples With IDD Waiver Program In the final hours of the 2024 regular legislative session, lawmakers passed a budget that cut funding for IDD waivers. “They failed to do the required financial analysis to determine the impact of cutting the IDD waiver budget,” Folio said. “We have hundreds of thousands of people in West Virginia that are going to be affected — can you imagine, can you imagine the good work that we did and now we could possibly hurt those folks?” Justice said. https://wvpublic.org/w-va-grapples-with-idd-waiver-program/ 3/20/24 - People Magazine Elderly Non-Verbal Patient Died After Reportedly Being Left in 134-Degree Whirlpool at Care Facility. Four people were reportedly fired in connection with the Jan. 4 incident at Hopemont Hospital in Terra Alta, West Virginia https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/advocates-families-want-to-see-more-funding-towards-idd-program-following-11-million-cut/ 3/18/24 - West Virginia Watch ‘His skin melted off’ — Elderly man in state care dies after being left in scalding water. Three contract nurses at a state-run hospital were fired after the patient’s death. The incident has raised more concerns about how the state health department vets staff who care for vulnerable individuals. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/03/18/his-skin-melted-off-elderly-man-in-state-care-dies-after-being-left-in-scalding-water/ 3/14/24 - WOWK 13 News Advocates, families want to see more funding towards IDD program following $11 million cut. https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/advocates-families-want-to-see-more-funding-towards-idd-program-following-11-million-cut/ 1/24/24 - Mountain State Spotlight People with disabilities are stuck at state hospitals. Lawmakers and patient advocates disagree on where they should go next. https://mountainstatespotlight.org/2024/01/24/idd-transitional-facilities-bill/ 1/24/24 - West Virginia Watch House committee passes controversial plan to build facility for patients with disabilities. Citing “no real solutions,” House lawmakers are moving forward with a plan to build a new facility for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The proposal has been met with sharp criticism from those who advocate for and serve patients with disabilities; they say the bill will further trap individuals in institutions without proper support. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/01/24/house-narrowly-passes-controversial-plan-to-build-facility-for-patients-with-disabilities/ 1/19/24 - West Virginia Watch Teachers need student discipline support. State lawmakers will try to address a complicated issue. School discipline issues have spiked post pandemic, and West Virginia is one of several states that have already enacted stricter punishments for disruptive students. Lawmakers said they’ll be doing much more to address student discipline issues, mostly focusing on protecting teachers and bolstering their ability to remove disruptive students. There’s already legislation that expands last year’s discipline bill into elementary schools. Holly Sheldon, a senior advocate with Disability Rights West Virginia, said schools are already failing to follow students’ IEP and behavior intervention plans, resulting in students being unfairly disciplined. “Children with a disability require assessments and services and not discipline, classroom removal or expulsion. Schools cannot discipline the disability out of a student,” she said. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/01/19/teachers-need-student-discipline-support-state-lawmakers-will-try-to-address-a-complicated-issue/ 1/18/24 - West Virginia Watch What are we waiting for? Legislators, our child welfare system needs immediate action. Do you remember the old Dutch tale about a boy who stuck his finger in a leaking dike to save his country from a great flood? It’s a story about courage and conviction in taking action to prevent the devastation of immediate danger. We are at a similar juncture with the plight of West Virginia’s child welfare system — and ours is no tale. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/01/18/what-are-we-waiting-for-legislators-our-child-welfare-system-needs-immediate-action/ 1 /17/24 - West Virginia Watch Judge considers ‘proper sanctions’ against state health department over deleted foster care emails. ‘You guys really didn’t do that much to protect it,’ a federal judge told health department attorneys and leaders on Wednesday. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/01/17/judge-considers-proper-sanctions-against-state-health-department-over-deleted-foster-care-emails/ 1/16/24 - West Virginia Public Broadcasting Attorneys Seek Sanctions In Delayed Lawsuit Against DHHR. Attorneys say they have new evidence that shows the now split West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) purposely deleted emails related to a class action lawsuit. Plaintiffs in the suit, A Better Childhood, a New York-based nonprofit, along with Shafer and Shafer and Disability Rights West Virginia, recently asked for sanctions in the case due to lack of evidence retention from the defendants. https://wvpublic.org/attorneys-seek-sanctions-in-delayed-lawsuit-against-dhhr/ 1/10/24 - West Virginia Watch Isn’t it time for the West Virginia Legislature to face the truth about Sharpe Hospital? During the 2023 legislative session, the West Virginia Legislature enacted House Bill 2006 that split the Department of He alth and Human Resources into three agencies amid criticism of mismanagement, nonfeasance and retaliation. The bill required DHHR to create a “long-term sustainability plan for each state health facility” by Dec. 1, 2023. The deadline has passed and DHHR has presented no formal plan to sustain the state’s seven health care facilities — one acute, four long-term care and two psychiatric facilities. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/01/10/isnt-it-time-for-the-west-virginia-legislature-to-face-the-truth-about-sharpe-hospital/?emci=7da18419-1eaf-ee11-bea1-0022482237da&emdi=c711fdc3-afaf-ee11-bea1-0022482237da&ceid=113465 1/9/24 - West Virginia Watch Older foster kids are turning up in mental hospitals because the state has nowhere to put them. “I think [the state] failed him. And, they’ve failed me,” a mother said. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/01/09/older-foster-kids-are-turning-up-in-mental-hospitals-because-the-state-has-nowhere-to-put-them/ 1/2/24 - West Virginia Watch State health department’s top attorney retires amid ties to deleted foster care email scandal. The department is facing sanctions over missing emails from former officials in an ongoing lawsuit about the treatment of foster kids. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/01/02/state-health-departments-top-attorney-retires-amid-ties-to-deleted-foster-care-email-scandal/

Medley/Hartley Advocacy Program (MHAP) The Medley/Hartley Advocacy Program (MHAP) helps assure all active Medley and Hartley class members have behavioral health services, rehabilitation services, free and appropriate public education and individualized treatment in the most integrated setting. The Medley/Hartley Advocacy Program (MHAP) serves individuals living in the community as well as those committed to medical facilities. Through individual advocacy, training and outreach, the advocates provide services to some of West Virginia’s most vulnerable citizens. The MHAP holds firm the belief that individuals who have intellectual/developmental disabilities or require behavioral health services may lead a life that is dignified, productive and enjoyable, when appropriate supports are in place. Eligibility Criteria Must have a diagnosis of Intellectual Disability Born on or after April 1, 1956, and Been institutionalized prior to age twenty-three (23) for thirty (30) or more days at William R. Sharpe, Jr. Hospital (Weston State Hospital), Mildred Mitchell - Bateman Hospital (Huntington State Hospital), Lakin Hospital, Colin Anderson Center, Greenbrier Center, Spencer State Hospital, or Hopemont Hospital. Funding Source The West Virginia Bureau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities (BBHHF). The WV Departments of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR), the WV Department of Education (WV DOE) and the WV Division of Rehabilitation Services (WV DRS)

OUR STAFF Administrative Staff Susan Given, Executive Director Barbara Criner, Administrative Director Beverly Gragg, Senior Administrative Assistant Roy Mallory, Systems Administrator Terry Hickernell, Public Relations/Content Specialist Legal Staff Nick Ward, Legal Director email: nward@drofwv.org Program Staff Taniua Hardy, Program Director Stephanie Thorn, Medley Program Director Jodi Calissie, Data Report Specialist Lisa Brammer, Intake Specialist Sandy Sibray, Intake Specialist Regina Desmond, Senior Advocate Kevin White, Senior Advocate Christy Black, Advocate Shirley Bonnett, Advocate Jerri Drake, Advocate Debra Grant, Advocate Sandra Griffith, Advocate Amy Pike, Advocate Sheila Reynolds, Advocate Michael Schwartz, Advocate Alia Tanner, Advocate

2023 DRWV ADVOCACY IN MOTION 12/22/23 - West Virginia Watch WVU paid more than $230K for Coben to fly on private jet to Charleston for governor-appointed job. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2023/12/22/wvu-paid-more-than-255k-for-coben-to-fly-on-private-jet-to-charleston-for-governor-appointed-job/ 12/19/23 - The Parkersburg New and Sentinel Hearing set for sanctions motion in West Virginia foster care lawsuit. https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/local-news/2023/12/hearing-set-for-sanctions-motion-in-west-virginia-foster-care-lawsuit/ 12/18/23 - WV Metro News Magistrate judge orders a hearing over purged emails in foster care lawsuit. The federal magistr ate judge plans to hear more about a request for sanctions over conditions in the foster care system. https://wvmetronews.com/2023/12/18/magistrate-judge-orders-a-hearing-over-purged-emails-in-foster-care-lawsuit/ 12/14/23 - West Virginia Watch Former DHHR attorney backs up claim department ‘intentionally’ deleted emails in foster care suit. Attorneys who brought the lawsuit on behalf of foster children say the deletion of evidence ‘was not merely reckless but was intentional.’ https://westvirginiawatch.com/2023/12/14/former-dhhr-attorney-backs-up-claim-department-intentionally-deleted-emails-in-foster-care-suit/ 12/14/23 - Mountain State Spotlight Officials say sweeping changes are needed to prevent institutionalization of West Virginians with disabilities. Lawmakers will strongly consider inc reasing pay for workers who help West Virginians with intellectual disabilities live more independently, but a legislative study recommends a broader range of reforms also be implemented. https://mountainstatespotlight.org/2023/12/14/disability-care-worker-pay-raises/ 12/12/23 - West Virginia Watch Weeks away from DHHR split deadline, lawmakers worry not enough is changing . State lawmakers pushed to split the behemoth DHHR, but the implementation appears to some as more ‘bloated bureaucracy’ https://westvirginiawatch.com/2023/12/12/weeks-away-from-dhhr-split-deadline-lawmakers-worry-not-enough-is-changing/ 12/10/23 - Mountain State Spotlight As officials delay, more West Virginians with disabilities are being confined to mental hospitals. For at least two years, disability rights advocates have warned that the state was indefinitely instituti onalizing people in state-owned psychiatric hospitals. Despite outcry, lawmakers have been slow to act. https://mountainstatespotlight.org/2023/12/10/wv-disabilities-mental-hospital/?utm_source=Mountain+State+Spotlight&utm_campaign=ba23d2ee17-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2023_12_11&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_91c55fb9d7-ba23d2ee17-482962127 11/17/23 - West Virginia Watch DHHR leaders say they’ll change staff vetting after multiple contract employees arrested. Multiple employees at a state-run psychiatric hospital have been recently arrested for crimes, including murders that occurred off-site. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2023/11/17/dhhr-leaders-say-theyll-change-staff-vetting-after-multiple-contract-emp loyees-arrested/?emci=221f5472-a784-ee11-8925-00224832e811&emdi=f659b2d5-4085-ee11-8925-00224832e811&ceid=113465 11/15/23 - West Virginia Watch Multiple employees at a state-run hospital have been charged with crimes this year. The charges, which include murders, have raised concerns about the employee screening process at Sharpe Hospital in Weston. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2023/11/15/multiple-employees-at-a-state-run-hospital-have-been-charged-with-crimes-this-year/ 11/1/23 - West Virginia Watch Mother seeks answers as son with autism trapped and injured in troubled state psychiatric hospital. Sharpe hospital was never meant to house patients long term. JP, a 33-year-old mostly nonverbal man, has been there for more than a year as the state doesn’t have enough community placement. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2023/11/01/mother-seeks-answers-as-son-with-autism-trapped-and-injured-in-troubled-state-psychiatric-hospital/ 10/10/23 - West Virginia Watch Women at Sharpe complained about employee before he was charged with patient sex crimes. It’s the latest problem to surface at the troubled state-run psychiatric facility, which for years has faced scrutiny for its patient treatment and staffing issues. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2023/10/10/women-at-sharpe-complained-about-employee-before-he-was-charged-with-patient-sex-crimes/ 9/11/23 - West Virginia Watch Patients continue to linger in state psychiatric hospital without treatment plans, inspection shows. Lawmaker s have heard for years about problems at William R. Sharpe, Jr. Hospital, a psychiatric facility under state operation. They recently toured the hospital, but Disability Rights West Virginia said it’s hardly a response to the crisis. https://westvirginiawatch.com/2023/09/11/patients-continue-to-linger-in-state-psychiatric-hospital-without-treatment-plans-inspection-shows/ 5/ 7/23 - WV News West Virginia DHHR working on plans to keep disabled out of state hospitals https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/west-virginia-dhhr-working-on-plans-to-keep-disabled-out-of-state-hospitals/article_73e95f8a-ed27-11ed-95bc-b3f52380e2a6.html 3/8/23 - The Parkersburg New and Sentinel Bill to study IDD in criminal justice system passes West Virginia Senate https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/local-news/2023/02/bill-to-study-idd-in-criminal-justice-system-passes-west-virginia-senate/ 3/6/23 - The Register Herald People with disabilities in Beckley forced to use the bathroom in buckets and outside, inspections show https://www.register-herald.com/news/state_region/people-with-disabilities-in-beckley-forced-to-use-the-bathroom-in-buckets-and-outside-inspections/article_18790d7a-b9f7-11ed-8dec-63c4337ace4f.html 2/13/23 - T he State Journal Advocates: Home care service shortages and issues place West Virginians at risk https://www.wvnews.com/statejournal/news/advoc ates-home-care-service-shortages-and-issues-place-west-virginians-at-risk/article_613b3f82-a891-11ed-a400-3bc087a218c6.html 2/13/23 - 100 Days in Appalachia (Erin Beck) For This W.Va. family, legislative attention on ‘warehousing’ people with intellectual disabilities at state hospitals is too late https://www.100daysinappalachia.com/2023/02/for-this-w-va-family-legislative-attention-on-warehousing-people-with-intellectual-disabilities-at-hospitals-is-too-late/ 2/7/23 - The Parkersburg News and Sentinel Bill to study IDD in criminal justice system passed West Virginia Senate https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/local-news/2023/02/bill-to-study-idd-in-criminal-justice-system-passes-west-virginia-senate/ 1/20/23 - The Register Herald Whistleblowers protection bill follows alleged mistreatment of disabled people in state care https://www.register-herald.com/news/state_region/whistleblowers-protection-bill-follows-alleged-mistreatment-of-disabled-people-in-state-care/article_751d8090-986b-11ed-b81b-63e30846f0aa.html