Opinion: Legislators have the power to ensure the integration of Coloradans with disabilities in our communities

A significant portion of Colorado’s population is in need of your urgent support and advocacy this legislative session. 

Folks with disabilities make up a large percentage of our population as Coloradans, estimated to be almost 11%, and are a vital presence in our social spheres, workforce and community. Since and the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990 and the subsequent Olmstead v. L.C. decision by the Supreme Court in 1999, great strides have been made as far as the integration of the disability community, particularly in the avoidance of unnecessarily institutionalization. 

Before these legislative changes, people with disabilities were often warehoused and segregated from the rest of communities — a shameful part of our history in Colorado, and as a country. Support for the disability community has largely been bipartisan in recent years, including support for veterans benefits, community integration efforts and functional job training.

However, with potential federal funding cuts to disability programs looming, it is vital that we take measures to protect the progress we’ve made. A recent survey found that 69% of community and home-based disability services nationwide are already turning away clients because of limited resources. With the potential for more federal budget cuts to these programs (particularly with the risk of Medicaid landing on the chopping block), our disability populations could soon be underserved to a devastating extent. 

But in Colorado, House Bill 1017 would ensure individuals with disabilities have access to community resources and integration, despite any potential cuts to disability program funding. The bill requires the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office in the Department of Labor and Employment to create a community integration plan for serving individuals with disabilities across the state. 

We must pass this legislation in order to protect for the disability community in Colorado. And with an ask of less than $900,000 to cover two years of work, the cost for two full-time employees to track and update the plan is more than worth the investment to safeguard the rights of so many Coloradans. 

As a behavioral health professional working with clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities, regularly assisting them in accessing their community resources and forming social connections, I have seen firsthand how incredibly vital the passing of House Bill 1017 would be. 

My clients, thanks to the opportunities provided by their day program, are able to regularly engage in community activities — such as visit with their local farmers market vendors, go on beautiful hikes in Fort Collins’ natural areas, and form lasting friendships with folks they likely wouldn’t otherwise meet. They benefit greatly in social-skills development, physical health, functional living activities and self-advocacy. 

Without day programs — as well as losing job coaching services, host home providers and adequate health care — the quality of life for people with disabilities would likely decrease, which puts them at greater risk for institutionalization. According to the American Heart Association, social isolation and withdrawal from the community puts people at higher risk of developing mental issues, physical ailments and even premature death.

A shortage of employment support services and accessible housing also creates concern for a widening of the poverty gap between disabled and able-bodied populations. These individuals are vibrant, valuable members of our community, and for so many of them, they are dependent on a variety of government-funded services. 

Individualized care, social connections, support systems and appropriate housing are important for all of us to thrive. It would be a grave disservice to our disabled friends, family and peers not to advocate for the codification of these basic needs. 

It is vital we stand up for the disability community, amplify their voices and advocate that disability services remain intact, regardless of federal changes. We cannot let our fellow community members slip through the cracks, and House Bill 1017 systematizes methods to ensure their protection. 

The bill has passed through the House and is with the Senate, and your voice is needed. Find your senator here and email them urging a yes vote on House Bill 1017. Let’s stand up for dignity and inclusion for all Coloradans. The ensured support and integration of Colorado’s disability population is worth our investment.

Adie Bendickson of Fort Collins works in the mental health and disability space and is a student in the Masters of Social Work program at Colorado State University.

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