Parent Guide to Getting Started with Self-Determination

By Tamra, Parent

In December 2014, SB 468 was signed into law, creating a statewide Self-Determination Program that offers a voluntary alternative to the traditional way regional center provides services.  This program offers the consumer and their families a way to control and tailor their services and supports independently.  These services are controlled by the consumer, and paid for by the consumer using a pre-determined budget.   It is a voluntary program.  If you choose not to participate, you will receive services in the same manner through your regional center.

Once federal approval of matching funds is received, each regional center will open the program to a test group of participants, capped to a total of 2500 participants statewide. We expect this to happen sometime this year.

Participation in this program will take work.  To start, you need to come up with a Person Centered Plan.  It involves getting a group of people together to focus on the consumer’s vision of what they want for their future.  They come up with goals and create a plan.

As a consumer, you will need to be “thinking outside the box,” to use your funds creatively to meet the IPP and Person Centered Plan goals.  You can access services such as social and recreational programs, non-medical therapies, and respite.  It is your responsibility to monitor staff and agencies that you hire.

You will also need a Fiscal Manager to help you manage your funds.  As a participant, you actually become an employer, so there are payroll taxes and other regulatory fees that must be paid.  The Fiscal Manager, paid for out of your budget, will assist you in these areas.  You cannot be your own Fiscal Manager.

For the past 15 years, there has been a test group that has been using this self-determination process here in California.  Of the 300 that started, over 200 are still in the program and are very pleased with the process.

If you are interested in this program, your first step is to let your regional center coordinator know.  The second step will be to attend the informational meeting.  You will not be considered for a slot in the pilot program unless you are at a meeting.  Keep an eye on your regional center’s website for the meeting dates.

Remember, if you aren’t included in this first wave, this program will become more available in the years to come.

For more information on Self-Determination, please visit http://www.disabilityrightsca.org/pubs/F07701.pdf