Rep. Amstutz Introduces New Bill Updating Ohio's Developmental Disabilities System

Speaker Pro Tempore of the Ohio House Ron Amstutz (R-Wooster) today joined others at the Wayne County Board of Developmental Disabilities to talk about legislation he introduced this week making updates to Ohio’s developmental disability system.

At the event, Rep. Amstutz talked about House Bill 483, legislation that builds upon progress made in the most recent state operating budget in which an additional $300 million was appropriated over the next two years for Ohioans with developmental disabilities. The bill makes various modifications to the developmental disability system in Ohio by first updating the law regarding home caretakers by allowing them to administer more medications. The legislation would also improve programs for children with developmental disabilities by connecting early intervention to care as they get older.

“I’m pleased to carry this legislation through the process by working with family associations, providers, and the state and local administrators to update and improve state law that guides these services,” Amstutz said.

Rep. Amstutz joined others at the event including Dave Ashley, Superintendent of the Wayne County Board of Developmental Disabilities; John Martin, Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities; Bridget Gargan, Ohio Association of County Boards; Nicholas Cascarelli, Parent and Director of the Wayne County Health Department; Mark Davis, President of the Ohio Provider Resource Association; Kristine Knetzer, Midwest Health Services; and Gary Tonks, The Arc of Ohio.

House Bill 483 was officially introduced earlier this week and will be referred to a House Committee to be further discussed by members, the medical community and individuals and their families who would be affected by these program changes.