Are You In A ‘Technology First’ State? What Does That Mean?

If you are an executive of a provider organization serving consumers with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), there is a good chance you’ve heard the phrase, “Technology First.” But if you aren’t working in one of a handful of states that have adopted a technology-centric approach—including Alaska, Delaware, Indiana, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin—then you might not be familiar with the details.

Generally speaking, “Technology First” initiatives are plans to expand access to technology for people with developmental disabilities—with the goal of promoting their ability to live as independently as . . .