An editorial in the Tulsa World recently highlighted the lack of funding for services for Oklahoma’s citizens with developmental disabilities. According to the World, there are currently more than 7,000 Oklahomans with developmental disabilities on waiting lists to receive state assistance.
From the World editorial:
A recent study found that the number on the waiting list has risen by 24 percent since 2010, the report said. That was the year Oklahoma had the third largest waiting list for those services. In 2010, there were 5,737 families on the list; in March of this year, the number had grown to 7,109 – the highest it has ever been, according to one official.
The editorial goes on to say the state Legislature added more than $1 million to fund services for the developmentally disabled this year, but the funding has done little to alleviate the number of people waiting to receive services. These services include access to housing, mental health screenings, education, training and transportation.
We appreciate the effort by the paper to raise awareness. People with developmental disabilities may not be able to hold employment because of their intellectual disabilities. Because of the lack of work or resources available, many qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
If you have questions about applying for benefits, contact a Tulsa Social Security Disability attorney. We offer free evaluations of your case. You may reach us by phone at (918) 265-1404. Contact us today to learn more about your rights.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security Disability lawyers
