There are several bills before the legislature that will impact the rights of people with traumatic brain injury.
HB 1873, from Delegate Coyner, and SB 1421, from Senator Edwards, eliminates the requirement that an injury occur before the age of 65 to constitute a brain injury. The house bill was approved by the Committee on Health, Welfare and Institutions and proceeded to its first reading in the full house on January 15.
HB 2182, offered by Delegate Wilt, requires the Board of Education to amend the definition of “traumatic brain injury” to include an acquired injury to the brain caused by a medical condition. The current regulatory definition of “traumatic brain injury” includes only an injury caused by an external physical force.
SB 262, with Senator Boysko and several other patrons, permits the use of hyperbaric oxygen treatment for veterans who have a traumatic brain injury.
SJ 276, from Senator Favola will designate September as Brain Aneurysm Awareness month.
dLCV’s mission is to advance independence, choice and self-determination; protect legal, human and civil rights; and eliminate abuse, neglect and discrimination of people with disabilities through zealous and uncompromising legal advocacy and representation. We are available to educate policy makers about the potential impact of legislative proposals. Please let us know of any legislative proposals or budget issues that you think we should be following. Contact us at info@dlcv.org or by calling 1-800-552-3962 or 804-225-2042. Please continue to check back here for regular updates on developments in the legislature.