From:   Majordomo List Server [[log in to unmask]] on behalf of
Stephanie Thomas [[log in to unmask]]
Sent:   Tuesday, March 09, 1999 7:02 PM
To:     micasa-list
Subject:        FW: WA withdraws from Olmstead!


-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Tuesday, March 09, 1999 5:23 PM
WA State withdraws from Olmstead Amicus Brief!!

In a letter dated March 9 and directed to George Walker, Chair of the
Developmental
Disabilities Council, the Attorney General said in part, "After careful
consideration, we have decided to withdraw our state from the amicus brief.
 This has been a difficult decision as we have struggled to determine how
to best fulfill our responsibility to protect the legal interests of the
state and its citizens.  What we have come to understand is the great
symbolic importance many persons with disabilities place on this case.  Our
signature on this amicus was not intended to convey a message that the
state is changing its direction toward providing broader choices and
eliminating barriers for persons with disabilities.  To the contrary, over
the past few years the state has moved toward increased opportunities for
community-based services for the disabled while seeking to preserve the
option of quality residential care.

"The Governor and I have each affirmed our strong support for better
services and choices for persons with disabilities.  We do not want our
signature on this amicus brief to call that commitment into doubt and
create unnecessary fear and anxiety."

Over the last several weeks there have been meetings with Governor Locke,
Attorney General Christine Gregoire, and others to express concern and
anxiety about the original decision to sign onto the amicus brief.
Advocates have written letters, sent emails and called with their concerns.




NATIONAL ADAPT MAILING LIST - Adapt MiCASA List of Adapt Organizers.
From:   Majordomo List Server [[log in to unmask]] on behalf of
Stephanie Thomas [[log in to unmask]]
Sent:   Tuesday, March 09, 1999 6:35 PM
To:     micasa-list
Subject:        Good news on May 12th Rally

Mike Oxford wanted folks to know, to help with fundraising...

Topeka Independent Living Resource Center will match any donation for the
May 12th Don't Tread on the ADA Rally up to $20,000 (total)

All donations should be sent to Denver  c/o Atlantis  201 S Cherokee  Denver
CO 80223



NATIONAL ADAPT MAILING LIST - Adapt MiCASA List of Adapt Organizers.