Text to be removed highlighted in red.
1 Short Title. This act shall be known as "Grace's Law".
2 New Section; Services for the Developmentally Disabled; Right to Preferred Method of Communication. Amend RSA 171-A by inserting after section 4 the following new section:
171-A:4-a Right to Preferred Method of Communication.
I. An individual with a developmental disability who is receiving services under this chapter shall have the right to communicate using any of the following methods, and such methods shall be recognized and supported in group homes, schools, and public institutions within the state service delivery system:
(a) Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) techniques and devices.
(b) Independent use of letterboards and independent typing-based communication.
(c) Sign language and non-verbal gestural systems.
(d) Speech-generating devices or any other assistive technology.
II. Trained staff, including direct support professionals (DSPs), educators, and health care providers of communication methods shall make all reasonable efforts to accommodate an individual's preferred method of communication.
3 Effective Date. This act shall take effect 60 days after its passage.
Text to be added highlighted in green.
1 Short Title. This act shall be known as "Grace's Law".
2 New Section; Services for the Developmentally Disabled; Right to Preferred Method of Communication. Amend RSA 171-A by inserting after section 4 the following new section:
171-A:4-a Right to Preferred Method of Communication.
I. An individual with a developmental disability who is receiving services under this chapter shall have the right to communicate using any of the following methods, and such methods shall be recognized and supported in group homes, schools, and public institutions within the state service delivery system:
(a) Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) techniques and devices.
(b) Independent use of letterboards and independent typing-based communication.
(c) Sign language and non-verbal gestural systems.
(d) Speech-generating devices or any other assistive technology.
II. Trained staff, including direct support professionals (DSPs), educators, and health care providers of communication methods shall make all reasonable efforts to accommodate an individual's preferred method of communication.
3 Effective Date. This act shall take effect 60 days after its passage.