Idaho violates ADA by segregating adults with disabilities in nursing homes, DOJ finds [Video]

IDAHO — The U.S. Department of Justice said the state of Idaho unnecessarily segregates adults with physical disabilities in nursing facilities, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

According to a press release from the Justice Department, the department outlined its findings in a letter to Idaho Gov. Brad Little following an investigation into the state’s service system for people with physical disabilities.

“People with disabilities in Idaho have the right to choose services to remain independent in their own homes instead of being segregated in institutions,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to ensuring that people with disabilities can access the services they need to live at home and be full participants in their communities.”

The department said the ADA and the Olmstead v. L.C. ruling require state and local governments to provide services to people with disabilities in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs. …