A. This act shall be known and may be cited as the “Independent Living Services Act”.
B. The Legislature hereby finds and declares that individuals with disabilities comprise a large percentage of Oklahoma’s total population. Such individuals need assistance in living fuller and more independent lives. Individuals with disabilities receive assistance in independent living in the form of direct client services provided by the Department of Rehabilitation Services and in the form of independent living services as provided by centers for independent living pursuant to the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. However, as currently funded, such services are not sufficient to meet the independent living needs of individuals with disabilities. As a result, it is necessary to provide state funding to expand the services currently provided.
C. For purposes of the Independent Living Services Act:
1. “Independent living center” has the same definition as such term is defined by the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, or its implementing federal regulations; and
2. “Independent living services” has the same definition as such term is defined by the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, or its implementing federal regulations.
Added by Laws 2000, c. 259, § 1, eff. July 1, 2000.