Legislative Intent

TITLE 56 PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND WELFARE CHAPTER 2 PUBLIC ASSISTANCE LAW 56-234. legislative intent. It is hereby declared by the legislature that, in keeping with current state and national goals and best practice, increasing numbers of persons with developmental disabilities are being discharged to community facilities or private residences as an alternative to large public institutions licensed as intermediate care facilities for persons with intellectual disabilities. Such deinstitutionalization is highly desirable since it can lead to a fuller, richer and more independent life for persons with developmental disabilities. Recognizing that every individual has unique needs and differing abilities, the purpose of the following provisions is to clarify the department of health and welfare’s duties and responsibilities with respect to persons with developmental disabilities, who are or may become residents of the southwest Idaho treatment center. The following provisions shall be liberally construed to accomplish these purposes.