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LATEST UPDATE*
In the final week of the budget debate, the Legislature presented a FY2012 Budget bill to Governor Christie that included language that would mandate that Vineland Developmental Center remain open. The Governor vetoed that language before signing the final budget bill. When asked about this issue during his press conference, he also expressed a clear commitment to the closure of developmental centers, stating that it is a human rights issue and that people deserve a chance to reach their potential and thrive in community settings. We are truly grateful for the Governor’s ongoing commitment to moving forward with this initiative!
Thank you to all of the self advocates, families, staff, and concerned citizens who helped in this important cause by responding to Action Alerts and participating in the various advocacy activities organized for this cause.
Please note that the Governor is currently considering legislation – Senate Bill 2928 – which could impact this issue.
Please keep checking back for additional information in the coming weeks!
CloseVineland.org is an initiative supported by the majority of the developmental disabilities community in New Jersey – self advocates, families, service providers and advocacy organizations – aimed at educating the New Jersey Legislature, the media, and the general public about the proposed closure and the benefits of providing inclusive, community-based services to people with developmental disabilities in lieu of large congregate residential facilities.
The Issue
Providing community-based services to people with developmental disabilities has been considered best practice for over thirty years. Despite this, and national trends toward reducing reliance on institutional services, New Jersey continues to operate seven large state-run institutions with a total census of about 2,700 people. In fact, we have not actually closed an institution in this state since 1998, and yet, we have reduced our institutional census by nearly 1,200 people since that last closure. We simply do not require seven large institutions anymore. In recognition of this fact, the New Jersey FY2012 proposed budget includes a provision to close Vineland Developmental Center over the next two years. Vineland Developmental Center is a large institution located in Vineland, NJ (Cumberland County) established in 1888 to provide residence to women with developmental disabilities. There are currently approximately 350 women living in Vineland Developmental Center.
Our Recommendation
Support a final New Jersey FY2012 Budget that includes the closure of Vineland Developmental Center.
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