Deaf Services Commission of Iowa

Iowa Department of Human Rights

Commission Meeting – November 14, 2009

OLD/NEW BUSINESS

Old Business

1. FY10 Budget Update–

Daniels will provide an update on the current budget including the 10% funding reduction and other measures to balance the budget.

2. DHR Reorganization Update–

The Department of Human Rights was charged with proposing reorganization of the department. A strategic planning process was undertaken to begin developing a reorganization strategy. A proposed reorganization structure has been developed. Daniels will present on the proposal and status.

3. Deaf Children’s Bill of Rights –

In March of 2006 the Commission passed “MOTION #06-06: Moved that DSCI establish a task force with Iowa Hands and Voices and the Iowa Association of the Deaf participating in a study of a deaf children’s bill of rights in Iowa. Lynch (Caloud)/Potter-Maxwell”. Both Iowa Hands and Voices and IAD were contacted on this issue. They both indicated that they would take the lead on the initiative. Multiple discussions took place but no formal action was taken. The Iowa Department of Human Rights feels that this year would be a good opportunity to move forward with a bill. Both Iowa Hands and Voices and the Iowa Association of the Deaf have been contacted on this issue. Baumann-Reese will have an update at the meeting about moving forward.

New Business

1. Issues Committees Meet and Report Out –

The Commission established committees to develop and implement plans to address the seven critical issues identified by the Commission. This agenda item will allow time for Commission and staff to meet by committee on these issues and then report out. Committees include:

Culturally Affirmative Mental Health Services/Substance Abuse Education and Aftercare Services: Dr. Muhammad Chowdhry / Barb Jones

Accessible Legal Representation: Tammy Westhoff-Gentry / Stephanie Lyons

Licensed Sign Language Interpreters Meeting Competency Standards:

Jan Fletcher and Theresa Legg / Stephanie Lyons and Kathryn Baumann-Reese

Opportunities for Youth to Prepare for Employment and Adult Life: Gus Cordero / Suzy Mannella

Services that Specifically Address Issues for Those Who Lose Their Hearing Later in Life: Dr. Jim Grover / Kathryn Baumann-Reese

2. Officer Election –

Commission votes for Chair and Vice Chair through the August 2010 meeting.

3. February Commission Meeting Date –

At the August meeting the Commission voted to meet on February 13, 2010. Later, Chair Legg realized that the IAD Board meets the same day. We are asking the Commission to consider an alternate date for the February meeting.