The proposed change in to Chapter 105 Rules and Regulations for Licensing Facilities and Providers will have a harmful effect for community homes such as L’Arche. In these homes, core members are able to invite assistants to share life with them. This model is a positive one that is good for those within the home, as well as the surrounding community.

In order to preserve this model, the definition of “group home” must allow the freedom for persons in direct care positions to live in the home if desired. Please strike the words “who do not live in the home” from this definition.

Further, I urge the following members of the Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services Commissioner's office to visit a L’arche home before you vote. You would be welcomed and amazed by what you see.

• Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services Intrim Commissioner Jack Barber
• Interim Chief Deputy Commissioner Kathy Dumwright
• Assistant Commissioner of Policy Public Affairs and Stakeholder Services Heidi Dix
• Assistant Commissioner of Behavioral Health Services Daniel Herr

Thank you all for your consideration of this important matter. We know you will do the right thing.