§ 501. Disabilities, aging, and independent living policy

(a) It is the policy of the State of Vermont that all older Vermonters and Vermonters with disabilities should:

(1) be able to live as independently as they choose and as their personal circumstances permit;

(2) be able to receive services and benefits that they need and to which they are entitled by law;

(3) be able to be full and active participants in the life of their communities, including competitive employment consistent with their abilities and interests; and

(4) be protected against unlawful and unnecessary restriction.

(b) The programs of the Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living shall be administered in a manner consistent with this policy.

(c) The laws pertaining to the Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living and its programs shall be construed liberally to carry out the policies stated in this section. (Added 1989, No. 219 (Adj. Sess.), § 3; amended 2005, No. 174 (Adj. Sess.), § 79.)