California residents living with disabilities have more opportunities to take control of their lives and support services than ever, thanks to the Lanterman Act. This important state law dictates how these resources are planned and offered to ensure they protect the rights of individuals with disabilities. As a result, understanding Lanterman Act eligibility will help you determine if you or a loved one can receive funding to support your needs.
Lanterman Act Eligibility Explained
Today, California Regional Centers are found all around the state. They offer important resources and support to people with disabilities so that they can live happy, healthy lives. But before the Lanterman Act, these services couldn’t exist.
What is the Lanterman Act?
The Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act (or just “Lanterman Act”) is a California law that was passed in 1969. It’s named after Assemblyman Frank. D Lanterman, who introduced the idea of creating Regional Centers in California.
Once it was signed into law, the Lanterman Act firmly protected certain rights for people with developmental disabilities. It asserted that those with disabilities should receive the services they need to live the same quality of life as someone without disabilities.
In doing so, the Lanterman Act introduced new opportunities and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Who is eligible under the Lanterman Act?
Eligibility for services in the Lanterman Act is based on whether a person has a developmental disability. In this case, a developmental disability is one that:
- A person has before they are 18
- Lasts for a person’s whole life
- Makes it hard to do things like speaking, walking, taking care of oneself, etc.
- Is called an intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, autism, epilepsy, or another disability that makes a person need the kind of support someone with an intellectual disability needs
The Lanterman Act & Self-Determination
Another key piece of the Lanterman Act is the idea of self-determination, which is legally required to be built into the plans used to give people with disabilities access to support.
Since the time the Act was passed, a new option for individuals with disabilities has popped up: the Self-Determination Program (SDP). The SDP offers Regional Center clients even more ways to control the services and supports they receive.
Lanterman Act eligibility is a key prerequisite to entering the SDP. If you or a loved one is eligible for services under the Lanterman Act, you can contact your Regional Center to take advantage of its resources. You can also enroll in the Self-Determination Program.
Learn More About Disability Rights & Resources
Still have questions about Lanterman Act eligibility and how it impacts your self-determination journey? NeuroNav is here to help.
Whether you’re just getting started with SDP or other Regional Center services or are already enrolled, our services are designed to support you.
Our team of independent facilitators is always here to help you create a self-determination plan, understand the services you can choose from, and advocate for you.
To learn more about our services and whether they’re right for you, contact us today for a free consultation. Or, to read more key information about disability resources in California, head over to our Self-Determination Hub.
