IN RECOGNITION OF THE TENTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE OLMSTEAD DECISION SUPPORTING CIVIL RIGHTS FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES 

• Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I want to take this moment to recognize the tenth anniversary of a monumental United States Supreme Court decision that represented a great advance in our contemporary civil rights struggle. On June 22, 1999, the United States Supreme Court asserted the right of individuals with disabilities to reside in their community via a 6-3 ruling. The Olmstead v. L.C. decision stated that making services for disabled individuals available only in institutions, thereby forcing them out of their homes, went against the Americans with Disabilities Act. Essentially, the Olmstead decision clarified the fact that the Americans with Disabilities Act gives individuals with disabilities the right to choose to receive their care in the community rather than in an institutional setting. Provision of care within one's community via personal care assistants is cost-effective and improves the quality of life of persons with disabilities. Studies show the cost of providing services in the community is much lower than in institutionalized settings, thereby allowing more individuals to receive services for the same cost. In addition, the ability to receive community based services and supports improves the ability of persons with disabilities to lead independent lives, work, and participate in their communities.