Letter to DRCT Board of Directors

Page 1 of 3 A.B.I. Resources LLC 39 Kings Highway, Suite C Gales Ferry CT, 06335 Phone: (860) 942-0365 Fax: (860) 465-9591 https://www.CTbrainINJURY.com Date: 11/28/2023 Subject: Request for Advocacy and Support in Addressing Systemic Rights Violations in Connecticut's Disability Support System. Dear DRCT Board of Directors, Kathryn DuPree (Board President) Christina Calabro (Board Vice President) James Ross (Board Treasurer) Lisa Nee (Board Secretary) Sara Liss (PAIMI Advisory Council Chair) Paul Acker Bonnie Clark Denise Drummond Luisa Soboleski I am writing to you as the CEO and Director of ABI Resources, an organization that provides support to individuals with disabilities under the Federally Funded Medicaid ABI Waiver Program in Connecticut. This letter is an earnest appeal for your advocacy and support in addressing ongoing systemic rights violations within our state's disability support system. Our organization has identified serious concerns regarding the rights of the disabled community in Connecticut, which are being infringed upon by state authorities and inadequately addressed by federal oversight. These challenges, which affect both my rights as a disabled business owner and the rights of those we serve, are compounded by the complexities and inefficiencies of current systems, as well as a conspicuous

Page 2 of 3 lack of accountability in the management of federal funds at the state level. Enclosed with this letter is a comprehensive report detailing these violations, our efforts to address them, and the insufficient response we have received from relevant authorities. The situation contradicts the principles of justice and equity and violates laws designed to protect the rights of disabled individuals. We are seeking the support of Disability Rights Connecticut in reviewing this report and advocating for necessary changes. The issues we face are not merely administrative but reflect a profound systemic failure to protect some of Connecticut’s most vulnerable citizens. The evidence in our report indicates a pattern of neglect and a systemic issue that demands urgent attention. The core values of our society, such as justice, equity, and equitable treatment under the law, are at risk. The future well-being of the individuals we support, as well as the integrity of our state's commitment to disabled citizens, depends on our collective action. The immediate challenges stem from actions taken by the Connecticut government, but the broader failure at the federal level has allowed these issues to proliferate. This situation is fundamentally a federal and state issue, necessitating robust oversight and effective intervention. We urge DRCT to recognize the seriousness of this situation and to take appropriate action. The welfare of numerous individuals with disabilities, who depend on services like those provided by ABI Resources, is at risk. In this urgent appeal, we highlight the lack of transparency and accountability in Connecticut’s administration of the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program. Our report elucidates potential civil rights violations, government overreach, and their profound impact on the disabled community. The absence of decisive action against these allegations risks setting a concerning

Page 3 of 3 legal and ethical precedent. The issues raised involve potential discrimination and inequality against individuals with disabilities and also raise significant public safety concerns. As leaders deeply involved in these matters, we have seen firsthand the detrimental effects these systemic issues have on our clients and their families. The responsibility to address these issues extends beyond the state of Connecticut to include advocacy groups like DRCT, where your expertise and influence can make a significant difference. In conclusion, the situation we are facing is a matter of national concern, warranting proactive intervention and advocacy at both the state and federal levels. The well- being of countless individuals reliant on the integrity of our systems is in jeopardy. We implore you to recognize the gravity of this situation and to assist in advocating for effective solutions. Your support in this matter is crucial, and we are ready to provide any further information or assistance required. Thank you for your consideration of this pressing issue. We look forward to your support and response. Best regards, David Medeiros David Medeiros ABI Resources, CEO, Director, Team Member