Updates and Information
News from MD TAP and Associated State Offices
Office for Individuals with Disabilities
Diane K. Ebberts, Executive Director
New Liaison with Deaf Community Joins Governor's Staff
Patricia Bowman, formerly a Rehabilitation Specialist with the
Division of Rehabilitation Services, has been hired as
Administrative Specialist for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Ms.
Bowman, who brings over nine years of experience in working with
people who are deaf, deaf-blind, and hard of hearing, will
coordinate the activities and services of state government and
private organizations, and will act as a liaison between the state
and members of the deaf community in Maryland. She earned
undergraduate and graduate degrees in Physical Education from
Gallaudet University and Towson State University, respectively.
During the past four years, Ms. Bowman has developed and provided
educational and vocational programs for more than 150 clients with
severe disabilities. Ms. Bowman may be reached at (410) 333-6304
(TTY).
Funding Update
Pat Ourand, MD TAP Assistant Director & Funding Specialist
The Senate held an open hearing on the Health Security Act on
Tuesday February 22, 1994. The hearing was well attended by
consumers, their families and numerous professionals and
organization representatives. Topics discussed at this hearing
involved the inclusion of assistive technology as a provision for
individuals with disabilities in the standard healthcare package,
as well as long term care services. Additionally consumers and
family members also strongly urged the inclusion of OT, PT and SLP
services as part of the outpatient rehabilitation sections.
Finally, all agreed that with the possible onset of managed care,
the consumer and or family members must guide and direct the care
of an individual with a disability with the cooperation of
specialists, as necessary and appropriate. Senators Kennedy,
Wellstone and Harkins were particularly open to hearing and
discussing these major issues.
Mark Your Calendar!
MD TAP's Third Annual Funding Conference is scheduled for
Friday, May 6, at the Bethesda Hyatt Hotel. For more details, call
1-800-832-4827, and ask to receive the Funding Conference Mailing.
Legislative Update
Lisa Williams, Legislative Analyst, Governor's Office for
Individuals with Disabilities
Motorized Wheelchair Warranty Enforcement Act, Annapolis, MD
The "Lemon Law" has been scheduled for a hearing in the
Economic Matters Committee (ECM) on Thursday March 10, 1994. A
panel of consumers and professionals has been invited to present
verbal testimony before the house members. All interested others
are invited to attend this hearing as a demonstration of the
interest on the part of Maryland constituents. A day in Annapolis
is not only enjoyable, but informative for you and your
delegate(s). Please plan to attend. For additional information,
call 800-832-4827.
