Mixed opinions on Bill 464

by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - There was conflicting testimony provided today on a bill that would ensure the appropriate care and treatment of individuals with disabilities by mandating annual evaluations of every consumer.  Attorney Daniel Somerfleck says Bill 464 would require that certain levels of service be provided to consumers.

He said, "This is the first affirmative act by the Legislature that says that we as a government are making a change. We as the government see a need to correct an ongoing wrong. We as a government are getting on page. We are going to require that if someone resides in our programs that they get evaluated every year. It's already in the permanent injunction."

Somerfleck added that the failures of the government to provide services can lead to catastrophic events and individuals' abilities deteriorate. But the federal management team's Dr. James Kiffer isn't sold on the bill saying it forces the government to contract out for services without providing a funding source, saying, "I think forcing the department to outsource all services if it exists in the community would be a mistake and not in the best interest of the people of Guam."

Concerns were also raised about the lack of a contract with Latte Treatment, which that is providing services to the government and is seeking payment.  Kiffer told the committee however that without a final contract, payment cannot be made.