Short-form H143 would establish permanent support program for deafblind Vermonters

Representative Bill introduced H143, a short-form bill requested by a constituent to establish a permanent program at the Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) to provide assistance for people who are deafblind.

Bill said the existing small DAIL pilot grant is ending; H143 would create a permanent program (subject to appropriation) to provide a few hours per week of specially trained support—help with community access, medical appointments, errands and specialized tactile signing used by many deafblind people. The bill would require specialized interpreters for testimony and outreach; Bill and other members noted the small population and scattered geography of eligible Vermonters.

Committee members asked whether enough trained interpreters and qualified providers exist in-state; Bill said the pilot program has been able to find providers, but workforce availability is a question and training requirements are rigorous. Committee member questions focused on the range of assistance: some needs may be limited to transportation, while others require full communication facilitation.

Advocates and a named constituent, Rene Pellerin, were cited as knowledgeable witnesses who could provide details on numbers of people served and program cost estimates; the committee agreed that witnesses from the pilot should be invited if the bill is taken up. No appropriation or final language was adopted during the session.