April 1, 2009

Final Report of Iowa Governor's Task Force on Dependent Adults With Mental Retardation

The Task Force recommended several steps that establish or improve systems of coordination between government entities that oversee adult abuse assessment and detection processes. In addition the Iowa Department of Human Services proposed a series of actions to redesign the assessment process to gain long-term reform. Included is a proposal to enhance a community's capacity to provide a safety net of services, as well as formal and informal supports for vulnerable adults through a Community Partnership program. The recommendations do not apply exclusively to individuals with intellectual disabilities nor do they assume that all persons with disabilities are dependent. The Task Force was formed in February 2009 after it was revealed that an employer of individuals with mental retardation had abused employment statutes to avoid paying them fair wages for work and failed to provide a safe living environment and necessary care.