The Legislature finds that in keeping with current State and national goals, increasing numbers of developmentally disabled persons are being placed into community residences as an alternative to institutional confinement. Such deinstitutionalization is highly desirable since it can lead to a fuller, richer, and more independent life for developmentally disabled persons. However, because of their disabilities, they may be vulnerable to abuse, neglect, and exploitation in the community unless appropriate safeguards are established and necessary services are delivered to them in a wholesome environment. Therefore, the well-being of developmentally disabled persons living under State sponsorship in the community requires clarification of their rights and the rights of family members and other persons interested in their welfare, and a delineation of the responsibilities of the Department of Human Services.

L.1983, c. 524, s. 1, eff. Jan. 17, 1984.