Justice Department Blast Texas For Treatment Of State School Residents

The U.S. Department of Justice sent a 60-page letter to Texas Governor Rick Perry that outlines severe problems at the state schools for the disabled.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Grace Chung Becker alleges in the letter that conditions are so bad that the constitutional rights of the residents are being violated. Becker also says in the letter that unless the state cooperates with the federal government’s actions and remedies to the situation, the U.S. Attorney General’s office will take action.

The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services operates 13 facilities across the state that house and care for persons with developmental disabilities.

The letter outlines changes recommended for residents ranging from better assessments upon admission to the state schools to better training for staff at the schools.

A link to the letter is included on the Dallas Morning News’ Web site along with an article about the report.