Welcome Governor Elect Bob Ehrlich

The Maryland Technology Assistance Program would like to welcome Bob Ehrlich as he begins his journey as Maryland's new Governor in January 2003.

Maryland's disability community has grown through adversity and struggle and is well on its way to paving a better Maryland through its use of the U.S. justice system. As a new governor moves into the governor's mansion, we are looking to him to lead the way as thousands of Marylander's with disabilities continue to struggle and fight for their rights.

Governor elect, Bob Ehrlich, has outlined his goals and initiatives for the Maryland Disability Community, and Maryland TAP looks forward to watching and encouraging the Ehrlich administration as they implement these new initiatives during the governor's term.

Below is a brief outline of Bob Ehrlich's issues and plans to help individuals with disabilities in the state of Maryland. The following information was taken directly from his website at www.bobehrlich.com/issues20.html:

Bob Ehrlich is Committed to People with Disabilities

In Congress, Bob has a strong record of fighting for people with disabilities. He has fought for the Blind Empowerment Act, the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act, and several critical Mental Health bills bringing equity to private insurance and Medicare. As Governor, Bob will turn his strong record into a comprehensive plan for people with disabilities. Bob will focus on:

Making the Olmstead Decision a Reality:

Bob strongly supports the Olmstead decision by the U.S. Supreme Court. Continuing to warehouse people in expensive, inefficient, confining institutions is not only fiscally irresponsible, it is morally wrong. As Governor, Bob will work with disability groups, patients, and consumers to move people into community services and downsize our state's institutions. Bob will create opportunities for outreach efforts in state psychiatric hospitals to empower people to regain control of their lives. Bob will ensure that the money in the system follows the people who need it.

Implementing the Medicaid Buy-In Program:

As a supporter in Congress of the Medicaid Buy-In program to help people with disabilities find employment, Bob will bring it to Maryland as Governor. Bob will also ensure that the state offers employment opportunities for people with disabilities and will help bring employers and potential employees together to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Supporting the Transitioning Youth Initiative:

Students with developmental disabilities count on this program to help them transition into post-secondary day and employment services. Governor Ehrlich will work with the disability community to ensure this program continues under his administration.

Funding the Developmental Disabilities Waiting List Initiative:

Governor Ehrlich will ensure that the 6,000 children and adults currently on the Governor's Waiting List for family support, in-home, day habitation, and employment services get the care they need to continue their individual development.

Reviewing Maryland's Mental Health Parity Law:

Bob voted for this law as a state delegate, and he wants to ensure that HMOs and insurers are living up to the letter and the spirit of the law. Bob is a champion of equity in mental health treatment.

Promoting Accessible Housing:

Bob will support and strengthen the Department of Housing and Community Development to create incentives for homebuilders to make housing more accessible to people with disabilities. He will also continue his annual Housing Conferences to bring consumers, builders, developers, and all stakeholders together to promote housing education for all Marylanders.

Improving Transportation:

Bob will work with private and public transportation options to coordinate existing services and develop new options for people on the go. He will work with local communities to improve neighborhoods, roads, sidewalks, and bus stops to make them accessible for all Marylanders.


As citizens of Maryland, it is our duty to encourage the continual progress and inclusion of individuals with disabilities into the mainstream of society. Together, with local organizations, businesses and our local government, we can incur change that we feel is fair, responsible, and right. If you would like to contact Governor Elect Bob Ehrlich's office with your questions, thoughts, or suggestions, please contact:

Washington, DC Office
315 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
(202) 225-3061
(202) 225-3094 fax