Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act

The Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act is a California law that protects the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities. It was enacted in 1969 and is named after its principal author, California State Assemblyman Frank D. Lanterman. The act aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to necessary services and supports to live meaningful and productive lives in the community.

Key provisions of the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act include:

• Regional Centers: The act establishes regional centers throughout California that serve as a primary resource for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. These centers provide assessment, planning, and coordination of community-based services.
• Individualized Program Plan (IPP): Under the Lanterman Act, each individual with a developmental disability is entitled to an IPP, which outlines their specific needs, goals, and desired outcomes. The IPP is created collaboratively with the individual, their family, and service providers.
• Person-Centered Planning: The act emphasizes a person-centered approach to service planning, focusing on the individual’s strengths, preferences, and desired outcomes. It ensures that individuals with developmental disabilities have the ability to make choices and participate in decisions that affect their lives.
• Consent and Due Process: The Lanterman Act protects the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities by requiring informed consent for services and supports. It also establishes procedures for resolving disputes, ensuring individuals have access to due process and fair hearings.
• Community-Based Services: The act promotes the provision of services and supports in the least restrictive environment, prioritizing community living over institutionalization. It encourages the development of a wide range of supports, including housing, employment, education, and healthcare, tailored to individual needs.

Impact of the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act:

The Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act has had a significant impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities in California. By shifting the focus from institutionalized care to community-based supports, it has provided opportunities for greater independence, integration, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

The act has ensured that individuals have the right to participate fully in decisions concerning their lives and receive services that are designed to meet their unique needs. It has also helped create a network of support and resources for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through the regional center system.

Overall, the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act has been instrumental in advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities, promoting their well-being and quality of life.