Monitoring group homes and Correction Facilities on the Navajo Nation
As a Protection and Advocacy (P&A) organization, the Law Center is mandated to provide legal representation and advocacy services to individuals with disabilities, including monitoring group homes and correctional facilities. Under federal and state law, P&A organizations have the statutory authority to access facilities that serve individuals with disabilities, as well as to connect with the individuals themselves and review their records in an effort to identify and prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The Law Center’s goal is to ensure that individuals with disabilities live in safe, supportive environments where their rights are respected.
To inform individuals and facilities about the Protection & Advocacy and individuals’ rights
• Check conditions of facilities
• Ensure safety and rights protection in situations where we may not receive a complaint
• Follow up on concerns or prior investigations
The Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) Act and the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act) provide P&A authority to:
- Monitor facilities where services are provided to individuals with disabilities.
- Investigate allegations of Abuse and Neglect of individuals with disabilities.
- Access Records under certain circumstances.
Access to Facilities: Monitoring
In general, the P&A has the authority to access locations where services and treatment is provided to individuals with disabilities to monitor compliance with respect to the “rights and safety” of the individuals with disabilities, or to speak with the individuals to provide information and training.
If you have a loved one who resides in a group home and want additional information, please don't hesitate the contact the Law Center (505) 566-5880.