I srongly urge reconsideration of the proposed definition of "Group Home- a congregate service providing 24hour supervision in a community-based home having eight or fewer residents that provides 24hour supervision by persons in direct care positions who do not live in the home." 

The stipulation that those providing care "not live in the home" is restrictive and does not allow providers the opportunity to offer unique and varied experiences in group home settings.  L'Arche GWDC offers the unique experience in which Direct Support Professionals may live in the homes with residents.  This opportunity benefits those receiving services, those providing services, and the immediate community where the homes exist.

As stated in other comments,  should the change be adopted, it will exclude agencies that use a blended staff model, employing direct care professionals that live in AND live out of the home.