The Olmstead Decision

In Olmstead vs. L.C. (1999), the United States Supreme Court held that the unnecessary segregation of individuals with disabilities in institutions may constitute discrimination based on disability. The ruling upheld a key civil rights provision in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), known as the “integration mandate,” which maintains that individuals with disabilities must be offered services in the “most integrated setting” possible. As a result, states may be required to provide community-based services rather than institutional placements for many individuals with disabilities. These sites will tell you more about the ruling, how it is being implemented around the country, and what you can do to advocate for it in your state.

Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law – Olmstead v. L.C.: An overview of the decision with links to related information.

Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) – Americans with Disabilities Act / Olmstead Decision: The “HCFA plans to review relevant Federal Medicaid regulations, policies and previous guidance to assure that they are compatible with the requirements of the ADA and Olmstead decision, and facilitate States’ efforts to comply with the law.” This page includes letters to State Medicaid directors, letters from the HHS Secretary, press releases, and related links.

Legal Information Institute – Olmstead v. L. C. (98-536): The text of the Supreme Court decision.

National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSA) – The States’ Response to the Olmstead Decision: A Status Report: Find out what your state is doing about Olmstead. This site features the results of NSCA’s 50-state survey to determine initial state responses to the Olmstead decision. It includes an overview and a state-by-state analysis.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Olmstead v L.C.: Implications for Persons with Mental Illness and Addiction Disorders: An overview of the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Olmstead v L.C and its implications for Medicaid.

Related Subjects: Advocacy; Americans with Disabilities Act; Medicaid; Self-Determination; Resources in your state