Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Disability Services topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
House funds Center for Persons with Disabilities to leverage federal matching grants
Summary
The House passed HB 234, an appropriation routed through Utah State University to support the Center for Persons with Disabilities. Sponsors said a 15% state match generates roughly $3.5 million in federal funds for training paraprofessionals and related services.
On Feb. 15, 1995 the House voted to approve HB 234, which appropriates state funds to Utah State University for the Center for Persons with Disabilities to support training and services.
Representative Lloyd W. Fransen explained the appropriation’s intent: Utah State University will receive the funds and subcontract with colleges around the state to provide training for paraprofessionals and staff who work with people with disabilities. Fransen highlighted the 15% state match that draws down approximately $3.5 million in federal funds, a principal rationale for making the appropriation ongoing (sponsor explanation: SEG 2169–2183; matching rationale: SEG 2180–2183).
Questions from the floor clarified that the center trains professionals and paraprofessionals who work with people with disabilities (daycare staff, work‑activity centers, group homes, job coaches and teacher aides). Supporters said the center’s coordinated approach yields quality training and protects the state from liability by improving front‑line skills; opponents asked about using taxpayer dollars for continuing professional development but sponsors emphasized the federal match and service needs (Q&A: SEG 2194–2224; support arguments: SEG 2230–2330).
The House adopted previous question and passed the bill; the recorded vote was 59 yes, 7 no. The appropriation proceeds to the Senate and, if enacted, would be administered via Utah State University.
