Lawmakers bump up mental retardation budget

Thursday, May 8, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

Assembly Ways and Means and Senate Finance members had criticized Miller's budget for not providing enough funds to accommodate mentally retarded people who are on waiting lists for state help.

The extra money would go to such things as job training, employment assistance, and in-home support.

It's likely the subcommittee's recommendations will be approved by the Finance and Ways and Means committees. They generally accept recommendations by the subcommittee, which does extensive research before reaching decisions.

"It's a bright day for this program," said Assemblywoman Vonne Chowning, D-North Las Vegas, after the subcommittee voted unanimously Wednesday for the increase.

Families of mentally retarded persons in Clark County were upset by Miller's budget and were talking about suing the state.

"The families of these developmentally disabled people will be pleased," said Brian Lahren, a long-time advocate for the mentally retarded, who called it the biggest increase ever for programs for the mentally retarded.

David Luke, associate administrator for mental retardation, said the budget "will give us a chance to get on top of the waiting list." There are about 1,500 mentally retarded citizens receiving help from the state, but another estimated 300 on the waiting list.

The extra funds will enable those who care for the mentally retarded in their homes to take an extra 19 days a year "respite" leave so they don't get burned out. Luke said caring for mentally retarded individuals is a high stress job. With the additional leave, caregivers will now have 31 respite days a year.

The budget also will allow more cash grants to families who care for their mentally retarded relatives. It is expected that 65 families will be added to this program during the next two years.