HHS Proposes to Strengthen Protections Against Discrimination Based on Disability

• By: USAging
• On: 09/08/2023 11:43:39
• In: Policy & Advocacy

Yesterday, the HHS Office of Civil Rights (OCR) announced a proposed rule that would update regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities by recipients of federal funding.
 
The Rehab Act was the first civil rights legislation protecting people with disabilities from discrimination—and Section 504 covers all programs and activities funded by HHS, including hospitals and doctors that accept Medicare or Medicaid. the Rehab Act protects people with disabilities of all ages—which includes older adults who need assistance with activities of daily living. Highlights of new areas that would be covered by the proposed rule include discrimination in medical treatment, community integration and value assessment methods.
 
OCR and ACL will jointly host a webinar for stakeholders on the proposed rule on September 11 at 1:00 PM ET (register here). For 60 days starting on September 14, HHS will be seeking public comment on the proposed rule. USAging will be reviewing the proposed rule and we welcome feedback from members regarding the impact on older adults, people of all ages with disabilities, as well as AAAs and Title VI programs. Send your thoughts to policy@usaging.org.