{ "muckrock_id": "174593", "agency": "Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services", "title": "Comprehensive FOIA Request for Connecticut Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury Waiver Program Records", "first_date": "2024-10-17", "last_date": "2025-01-07", "sourceSearchUrl": "https://www.muckrock.com/foi/list/?q=174593", "route": "/foia/174593-department-of-health-and-human-services-centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services/", "messages": [ { "when": "2024-10-17 10:31:35", "file": "2024-10-17T10_31_35.949756 Communication.txt", "text": "To Whom It May Concern:\n\nPursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:\n\nFreedom of Information Officers\nSubject: Comprehensive FOIA Request for Connecticut Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury Waiver Program Records\n\nDear Freedom of Information Officers,\n\nI am writing to formally request access to all records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552) and relevant Connecticut state laws, specifically related to the Connecticut Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program. This information is critical to my participation in the oversight and administration of this program.\n\nIn accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.), I am requesting accommodations due to my condition. I respectfully request that all records be provided electronically via email, as opposed to portals or complex delivery methods, to ensure full and equal access to the information.\n\nScope of Request:\nLegislative Records:\n\nAll bills, amendments, resolutions, legislative proposals, and legislative history related to the Connecticut Medicaid ABI Waiver Program.\nVoting records of all state and federal legislators on any legislation affecting the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program.\nMinutes, transcripts, and audio/video recordings of meetings, hearings, or discussions where the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program was a topic.\nPublic Records:\n\nComprehensive reports, studies, assessments, and evaluations on the Connecticut Medicaid ABI Waiver Program.\nBudget allocations, financial statements, expenditure reports, and audit results related to the program, pursuant to Connecticut Budget Transparency Laws (C.G.S. 4-66 and related sections).\nAll contracts, agreements, memoranda of understanding, and intergovernmental agreements involving the administration or management of the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program.\nCorrespondence:\n\nAll emails, letters, and other forms of communication, including internal and external, regarding the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program.\nInternal memoranda, briefing documents, policy directives, and decision-making correspondence related to the oversight and implementation of the program.\nPersonnel Records:\n\nNon-confidential employment records, including job descriptions, resumes, and performance evaluations, of individuals involved in the administration and oversight of the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program. This request is consistent with the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a), which protects confidential personal data.\nOrganizational charts detailing the structure and personnel responsible for managing the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program within relevant state and federal agencies.\nProgram Information:\n\nAll guidelines, protocols, procedural documents, and compliance reviews governing the operation of the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program, as mandated by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Regulations (42 CFR 440.180) for home and community-based services waiver programs.\nImplementation plans, performance metrics, outcome reports, and evaluation summaries regarding the effectiveness of the program.\nComprehensive data sets related to enrollment, utilization, demographic information, and outcomes of beneficiaries participating in the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program.\nSpecial Requests:\nExpedited Processing: Pursuant to Executive Order 13392, which mandates the improvement of agency disclosure processes, and the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552), I request expedited processing of this FOIA request due to the public interest and personal impact of the information.\n\nElectronic Records: In compliance with my rights under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the ADA, I request that all records be provided in electronic format and sent directly to my email address. This will ensure that I can access the information without unnecessary barriers or delays.\n\nFee Waiver Request:\nI request a waiver of all fees associated with this FOIA request under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(A)(iii). This request is made in the public interest and not for commercial use. The disclosure of the requested information will significantly contribute to public understanding of government operations, particularly concerning the Connecticut Medicaid ABI Waiver Program, which impacts a vulnerable population. Additionally, due to my condition, as covered by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, a fee waiver will ensure equitable access to this important information.\n\nRelevant Laws:\nThis FOIA request, and the accommodations I am requesting, are governed by the following laws and regulations:\n\nFreedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552) Governing the right to request access to federal records.\nAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) Ensuring equal access for individuals with disabilities, including in communication.\nSection 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794) Prohibiting discrimination based on disability in programs receiving federal funding.\nPrivacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a) Protecting personal privacy in records maintained by federal agencies.\nMedicaid Statute (Title XIX of the Social Security Act) (42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.) Governing Medicaid programs, including waivers like the ABI Waiver.\nConnecticut Freedom of Information Act (C.G.S. 1-200 to 1-242) Governing the right to request access to state records.\nConnecticut Budget Transparency Laws (C.G.S. 4-66) Requiring public disclosure of state budget allocations and financial reports.\nCMS Regulations (42 CFR 440.180) Governing the administration of home and community-based services waiver programs, including the ABI Waiver.\nExecutive Order 13392 (\"Improving Agency Disclosure of Information\") Mandating federal agencies to improve FOIA processing.\nNon-Waiver of Rights:\nThis request does not waive any rights I may have under FOIA, the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, or any other applicable law, and I reserve all rights regarding this matter.\n\nThank you for your prompt attention to this request and for accommodating my needs.\n\nSincerely,\nDavid Medeiros\nABI Resources\n\nDepartments of Submission:\nState of Connecticut Agencies:\nConnecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)\nEmail: foia.dss@ct.gov\nDepartment: Department of Social Services\n\nConnecticut Office of the Attorney General\nEmail: attorney.general@ct.gov\nDepartment: Office of the Attorney General\n\nConnecticut General Assembly (CGA)\nEmail: foia@cga.ct.gov\nDepartment: Connecticut General Assembly\n\nConnecticut Office of Policy and Management (OPM)\nEmail: opm.foia@ct.gov\nDepartment: Office of Policy and Management\n\nConnecticut Department of Public Health (DPH)\nEmail: dph.foi@ct.gov\nDepartment: Department of Public Health\n\nFederal Agencies:\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)\nEmail: HHS_FOIA@hhs.gov\nDepartment: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services\n\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nEmail: FOIA_Request@cms.hhs.gov\nDepartment: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services\n\nU.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)\nEmail: foia.requests@usdoj.gov\nDepartment: U.S. Department of Justice\n\nU.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)\nEmail: foiarequests@hud.gov\nDepartment: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development\n\nU.S. Department of Labor (DOL)\nEmail: foiarequests@dol.gov\nDepartment: U.S. Department of Labor\n\nFederal Trade Commission (FTC)\nEmail: FOIA@ftc.gov\nDepartment: Federal Trade Commission\n\nThe requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.\n\nIn the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.\n\nThank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 20 business days, as the statute requires.\n\nSincerely,\n\nDAVID MEDEIROS" }, { "when": "2024-11-12 18:29:42", "file": "2024-11-12T18_29_42.353789 Communication.txt", "text": "Formal FOIA Appeal and Demand for Immediate Compliance Connecticut Medicaid ABI Waiver Program Records\nDate: November 12, 2024\nTo: FOIA Appeals Officer, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services\nFrom: David Medeiros, ABI Resources\n\nTo the FOIA Appeals Officer:\n\nI am submitting this formal appeal due to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) failure to respond to my FOIA request, dated October 17, 2024, regarding records related to the Connecticut Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program. CMSs non-response within the statutory period constitutes a clear violation of federal FOIA requirements (5 U.S.C. 552). Furthermore, CMS has neglected legally mandated ADA accommodations requested under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which are essential for my equitable access to these public records due to a documented disability.\n\nThis appeal is filed to compel CMSs compliance with both FOIA and ADA requirements, and I demand prompt action to produce the requested records, adhere to ADA accommodations, and expedite processing as required.\n\n1. Violation of FOIA Statutory Response Requirements\nNon-Compliance with FOIAs Statutory Obligations\nFederal FOIA mandates that agencies respond within 20 business days to requests by either providing access to records, issuing a response with a timeline, or explaining any grounds for withholding. CMSs complete failure to respond is a violation of 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(A), which mandates timely acknowledgment and processing of FOIA requests. CMSs non-compliance may prompt judicial review, as provided under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(B), to address improperly withheld records.\n\nDemand: I demand that CMS comply with FOIA by immediately providing access to the requested records or issuing a formal response that includes specific statutory justifications for any denials. I expect acknowledgment of this appeal and CMSs compliance confirmations within 10 business days of receipt. Further non-compliance will prompt escalation to the Office of Government Information Services (OGIS) for enforcement.\n2. Failure to Adhere to ADA and Rehabilitation Act Accommodations\nNon-Compliance with Required ADA Accommodations\nIn my initial FOIA request, I specified ADA accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. 794) and Title II of the ADA (42 U.S.C. 12131 et seq.) due to a traumatic brain injury (TBI). These accommodations are legally required and non-negotiable, ensuring accessible and equitable participation in the FOIA process. CMSs disregard for these ADA requirements represents a serious violation of my rights.\n\nRequested ADA Accommodations (Non-Negotiable):\n\nEmail-Only Communication via MuckRock Platform: All responses, updates, and records must be sent exclusively via email to support accessibility. No physical mail, phone calls, or portals may be used, as these methods impose barriers.\n\nDirect Text in Email Body: Where possible, response text must be embedded directly in the email body to ensure immediate readability and accessibility. Attachments alone are insufficient and must supplementnot replacethe response text.\n\nPDF Attachments for Documents: All documents must be provided as clearly labeled PDF attachments, organized by date and document type, and retaining original formatting to ensure clarity and navigability.\n\nSimplified Summaries for Complex Records: For documents containing complex legal, financial, or procedural content, simplified summaries must accompany the records to facilitate comprehension.\n\nIdentification of Responsible Personnel: All responses must include the names, titles, and contact information of FOIA officers, decision-makers, and supervisory personnel involved, ensuring transparency and accountability.\n\nDetailed Justifications for Redactions and Denials: Any redacted or withheld information must include detailed explanations, citing specific statutory exemptions as outlined under 5 U.S.C. 552(b), with sufficient detail to enable verification of each exemptions applicability.\n\nExpedited Processing: Due to the public interest nature of this request and ADA compliance requirements, this appeal requires expedited processing under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(E) and Executive Order 13392.\n\nConfirmation of Accommodation Compliance: Upon receipt of this appeal, CMS must confirm that each ADA accommodation will be strictly adhered to in all responses and communications.\n\nCMSs continued failure to comply with these ADA accommodations is a violation of the Rehabilitation Act and the ADA. I am formally documenting this non-compliance for the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and will escalate if CMS continues to ignore ADA requirements.\n\n3. FOIA Requirements to Locate and Produce Requested Records\nThe following records, specified in my initial request, are subject to mandatory disclosure under FOIA due to their relevance to publicly funded programs and government oversight:\n\nLegislative Records: CMS must produce legislative records, including bills, amendments, and voting records on the Connecticut ABI Waiver Program, as they are subject to FOIA under 5 U.S.C. 552.\n\nFinancial Oversight Records: As Medicaid is federally funded, records regarding budget allocations, audits, and expenditures for the ABI Waiver Program are public documents, subject to disclosure under 42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq..\n\nInteragency and Contractor Correspondence: Communications between CMS, the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS), and contractors (e.g., Accenture, Manatt) concerning the ABI Waiver Programs administration and oversight are also subject to FOIA under 5 U.S.C. 552 and 42 CFR 440.180.\n\nDemand: CMS is required to locate and produce all requested records in these categories. If any records are managed by another department, CMS must identify the responsible agency and provide contact information in compliance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(3).\n\n4. Filing with OGIS and the Office for Civil Rights\nIn the absence of a timely and comprehensive response, I will escalate to both OGIS and the Office for Civil Rights (OCR). OGIS holds the authority to enforce FOIA compliance, while OCR can enforce ADA compliance if CMS fails to provide reasonable accommodations. I will pursue this recourse if necessary.\n\n5. Justification for Expedited Processing and Fee Waiver\nLegal Basis for Expedited Processing and Fee Waiver\nThis request serves the public interest by advancing oversight of Medicaid program administration, which impacts a vulnerable population. Expedited processing is required under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(E) when a request serves a significant public interest, and this request qualifies for a fee waiver under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(A)(iii) and Executive Order 13392.\n\nDemand: I request immediate confirmation of both expedited processing and fee waiver approval, as justified by the legal grounds for this request.\n6. Certification of Compliance and Immediate Action Required\nPursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(3) and Executive Order 13392, I formally demand that CMS promptly:\n\nAcknowledge Receipt of this Appeal and confirm immediate compliance with FOIA obligations,\nCommit to Full ADA Accommodation Compliance as outlined in my original request and reiterated here,\nDisclose All Requested Records or provide legal justifications for any withholdings,\nConfirm Expedited Processing and Fee Waiver Approval, and\nIdentify Responsible FOIA Personnel involved in this response, including their roles and contact information.\nFailure to comply with this appeal will lead to immediate escalation to OGIS and OCR, with full documentation of CMSs FOIA and ADA non-compliance.\n\nThank you for your attention to this matter. Full compliance with FOIA, ADA, and Rehabilitation Act obligations is both anticipated and legally required.\n\nSincerely,\nDavid Medeiros\nFounder, ABI Resources\nEmail: AabiWR@live.com\n39 Kings HWY STE C\nGales Ferry, CT 06335" }, { "when": "2024-12-04 11:10:09", "file": "2024-12-04T11_10_09.208042 Communication.txt", "text": "12.04.2024 Subject: Appeal Immediate Compliance Required with ADA Accommodations and FOIA Obligations\n\nDear FOIA Officer\nI am writing to formally reiterate my request for specific ADA accommodations and compliance with FOIA obligations, which are essential for my full participation in this process. These accommodations were explicitly requested to address accessibility needs stemming from my traumatic brain injury and to ensure compliance with federal law. To date, your office has failed to meet these requirements, resulting in undue barriers and systemic non-compliance.\n\nAccommodations Previously Requested\nThe following accommodations, explicitly outlined in prior communications, remain unfulfilled:\n\nExclusive Use of MuckRock Platform\n\nRequested: All communications must be routed exclusively through the MuckRock platform. No external portals, password-protected links, or alternate communication methods are acceptable.\nNon-Compliance: Communications have directed me to use external portals and password-protected links, violating ADA guidelines and my explicit requests.\nAccessible Document Formatting\n\nRequested: All documents must be provided as screen-reader compatible PDFs, properly labeled and indexed for ease of navigation and accessibility.\nNon-Compliance: Provided documents have not adhered to accessibility standards, preventing effective access to critical information.\nSimplified Summaries for Complex Records\n\nRequested: Simplified summaries must accompany all complex or technical records to enhance comprehension and ensure equitable participation.\nNon-Compliance: No summaries have been provided, creating unnecessary barriers to understanding the records.\nIdentification of Responsible Personnel\n\nRequested: Each communication must include the name, title, and role of the individual responsible for processing or responding to my requests.\nNon-Compliance: Correspondence has consistently lacked this information, hindering accountability and effective follow-up.\n\nImmediate Action Required\nTo rectify these ongoing failures and ensure compliance with federal laws, I demand the following actions be taken without delay:\n\nTransition All Communications to MuckRock\n\nImmediately cease the use of external portals or non-compliant communication methods and ensure all responses are routed exclusively through the MuckRock platform.\nProvide Accessible Documents\n\nReformat and resend all previously provided documents as screen-reader compatible PDFs, properly labeled and indexed to ensure accessibility.\nInclude Simplified Summaries\n\nProvide simplified summaries for all complex or technical records, both previously shared and in future communications, to ensure accessibility and equitable participation.\nIdentify Responsible Personnel\n\nInclude the name, title, and role of the individual responsible for every communication moving forward to ensure transparency and accountability.\nLegal Basis for Compliance\nYour office is legally obligated to comply with these accommodations under the following statutes and principles:\n\nAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Title II, 42 U.S.C. 12132, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act mandate reasonable accommodations and accessibility in communications for individuals with disabilities.\nFreedom of Information Act (FOIA): 5 U.S.C. 552 requires transparency, accessibility, and adherence to procedural fairness.\nConstitutional Protections: The First, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution safeguard my rights to petition the government, due process, and equal protection under the law.\nExecutive Order 13392: Mandates improved agency disclosure of information to enhance transparency and accountability.\n\nDeadline for Compliance\nYour office must confirm compliance with these accommodations and provide the requested corrective actions within five (5) business days of this notice. Continued non-compliance will be documented as a violation of the ADA and FOIA and may result in escalation, including:\n\nFormal Complaints: Filing with the U.S. Department of Justice and the Office for Civil Rights.\nJudicial Remedies: Seeking injunctive relief and damages for ADA and FOIA violations.\nPublic Advocacy: Reporting systemic failures to oversight agencies, media, and advocacy organizations.\nConclusion\nThis communication serves as a final request for compliance. It is imperative that your office address these deficiencies promptly to restore transparency, accessibility, and adherence to federal law.\n\nThank you for your immediate attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and resolution by the stated deadline.\n\nSincerely,\nDavid Medeiros\nFounder, ABI Resources\nDB.42.131.Inf.\n\nCC\nFederal Officials\nMerrick B. Garland\n\nTitle: U.S. Attorney General\nContact: Department of Justice Contact Page\nKristen Clarke\n\nTitle: Assistant Attorney General, Civil Rights Division\nContact: Civil Rights Division Contact Page\nXavier Becerra\n\nTitle: Secretary, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)\nContact: HHS Contact Page\nChiquita Brooks-LaSure\n\nTitle: Administrator, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nContact: CMS Contact Page\nLisa M. Gomez\n\nTitle: Assistant Secretary, Employee Benefits Security Administration\nContact: EBSA Contact Page\nMichael E. Horowitz\n\nTitle: Inspector General, U.S. Department of Justice\nContact: DOJ OIG Contact Page\nChristi Grimm\n\nTitle: Inspector General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services\nContact: HHS OIG Contact Page\nGene L. Dodaro\n\nTitle: Comptroller General, U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO)\nContact: GAO Contact Page\nConnecticut State Officials\nNed Lamont\n\nTitle: Governor, State of Connecticut\nContact: Governor's Contact Page\nWilliam Tong\n\nTitle: Attorney General, State of Connecticut\nContact: Attorney General's Contact Page\nAndrea Barton Reeves\n\nTitle: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)\nContact: DSS Contact Page\nManisha Juthani, MD\n\nTitle: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Public Health\nContact: DPH Contact Page\nJeffrey R. Beckham\n\nTitle: Secretary, Connecticut Office of Policy and Management\nContact: OPM Contact Page\nCongressional Oversight Committees\nHouse Committee on Oversight and Accountability\n\nChair: James Comer (R-KY)\nContact: Committee Contact Page\nSenate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs\n\nChair: Gary Peters (D-MI)\nContact: Committee Contact Page\nHouse Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties\n\nChair: Jamie Raskin (D-MD)\nContact: Subcommittee Contact Page\nSenate Judiciary Committee\n\nChair: Dick Durbin (D-IL)\nContact: Committee Contact Page" }, { "when": "2025-01-07 11:29:16", "file": "2025-01-07T11_29_16.674165 Communication.txt", "text": "Escalated Legal Complaint and Appeal\n*** 10/17/2024 Subject: Freedom of Information Act Request: Subject: Comprehensive FOIA Request for Connecticut Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury Waiver Program Records (Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)\n\nWhat Was Asked For\nLegislative Records\n\nBills, amendments, resolutions, legislative history, and voting records concerning the Connecticut Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program.\nMinutes, transcripts, and recordings of public hearings and discussions related to the program.\nPublic Records and Financial Oversight\n\nComprehensive program assessments, budget allocations, expenditure reports, and audit results as mandated by Connecticut Budget Transparency Laws (C.G.S. 4-66) and FOIA (5 U.S.C. 552).\nAll contracts, agreements, and memoranda of understanding regarding the ABI Waiver Program.\nCorrespondence\n\nInternal and external communications, including emails, letters, and briefing documents regarding the ABI Waiver Program.\nPersonnel Records\n\nNon-confidential employment records (job descriptions, qualifications, evaluations) of individuals overseeing the program.\nOrganizational charts for program management within state and federal agencies.\nProgram Information\n\nGuidelines, protocols, compliance reviews, and performance metrics for program effectiveness.\nEnrollment data, utilization trends, demographic information, and program outcomes.\nSpecific Accommodations Requested\n\nScreen-reader-compatible PDF documents.\nSimplified summaries for complex or technical records.\nCommunication exclusively via the MuckRock platform to avoid inaccessible portals.\nWhat Was Not Given\nLack of Records\n\nNo legislative records or transcripts were provided.\nFinancial audit reports, budget allocations, and expenditure records were not disclosed.\nCommunications and agreements between agencies were withheld.\nADA Accommodations Ignored\n\nDocuments were not provided in screen-reader-compatible formats.\nSimplified summaries for technical records were not included.\nCommunication was directed to inaccessible platforms (portals and external links), contrary to ADA requests.\nInadequate Responses\n\nDelayed responses far beyond the statutory deadline of 20 business days under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(A).\nFailure to cite specific exemptions under 5 U.S.C. 552(b) for any withheld information.\nWhy This Is Wrong\nViolation of FOIA Requirements\nTimely Response Obligation\n\nFederal law requires agencies to respond to FOIA requests within 20 business days. CMS and other agencies failed to meet this statutory deadline.\nThis delay constitutes a direct violation of 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(A).\nMandatory Disclosure\n\nFOIA mandates disclosure of records unless specific exemptions apply. Failure to provide requested records without citing statutory exemptions under 5 U.S.C. 552(b) is unlawful.\nTransparency Obligation\n\nGovernment programs funded by taxpayer dollars, such as Medicaid, must operate transparently under the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (31 U.S.C. 6101 et seq.). Withholding financial audits and agreements undermines public accountability.\nViolation of ADA and Rehabilitation Act Requirements\nReasonable Accommodations Mandate\n\nTitle II of the ADA (42 U.S.C. 12132) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. 794) require agencies to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.\nFailure to provide accessible formats (e.g., screen-reader-compatible PDFs) and simplified summaries is a clear breach of these laws.\nDenial of Equal Access\n\nDirecting communications to inaccessible portals and ignoring requested accommodations excluded equitable participation, violating ADA standards.\nConstitutional Violations\nFirst Amendment\n\nThe denial of FOIA records obstructs the publics right to petition the government for redress, as upheld in NARA v. Favish, 541 U.S. 157 (2004).\nFifth Amendment\n\nDenial of ADA accommodations violates due process rights, as it creates barriers to accessing essential government services.\nFourteenth Amendment\n\nExclusionary practices in denying ADA accommodations and program participation constitute discrimination, violating the Equal Protection Clause.\nFailure to Address Whistleblower Disclosures\nSuppression of Evidence\n\nDelayed or incomplete responses to whistleblower-related FOIA requests undermine the Whistleblower Protection Act (5 U.S.C. 2302(b)(8)) and the False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. 3729).\nObstruction of Justice\n\nSuppression of complaints and failure to investigate whistleblower claims (e.g., misuse of Medicaid funds) constitutes obstruction of justice under 18 U.S.C. 1505.\nConclusion\nThe failure to provide requested records, comply with ADA accommodations, and adhere to statutory deadlines is unlawful under FOIA, the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and constitutional provisions. This non-compliance obstructs public accountability, undermines whistleblower protections, and perpetuates systemic exclusion of individuals with disabilities.\n\n\n\nDate: January 7, 2025\n01.07.2025\n\n\nFrom: David Medeiros, Founder, ABI Resources\nTo All: \n\n\n\n\nI. Constitutional Rights Violations\nLegal Basis:\nFirst Amendment: Protects the right to petition the government for redress of grievances, including access to public records.\nRelevant Statute: 5 U.S.C. 552 (Freedom of Information Act).\nFifth Amendment: Guarantees due process, including equitable access to government processes.\nFourteenth Amendment: Mandates equal protection and prohibits discriminatory practices by public entities.\n\nDocumented Violations:\nFOIA Non-Compliance:\nSystematic failure to meet statutory deadlines under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(A), obstructing access to records critical for Medicaid ABI Waiver oversight.\nADA Violations:\nDenial of reasonable accommodations (e.g., screen-reader-compatible documents, simplified summaries) violates 42 U.S.C. 12132 and 29 U.S.C. 794, excluding individuals with disabilities from meaningful participation.\n\nDemands:\nInvestigation: Immediate DOJ inquiry into systemic violations of constitutional rights and statutory obligations.\nCompliance: Release all FOIA-requested records in ADA-compliant formats within 10 business days.\n\nKey Case Law:\nTennessee v. Lane, 541 U.S. 509 (2004): ADA Title II extends protections to public services, requiring accessible participation.\nNARA v. Favish, 541 U.S. 157 (2004): Establishes transparency under FOIA as a constitutional safeguard for public oversight.\n\nEscalation Measures for Non-Compliance:\nFiling complaints with:\nOffice for Civil Rights (OCR): ADA violations.\nOffice of Government Information Services (OGIS): FOIA delays and non-compliance.\nJudicial action seeking:\nInjunctive relief under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(B) for FOIA violations.\nDamages under 42 U.S.C. 12133 for ADA non-compliance.\n\nII. Whistleblower Protections\nLegal Basis:\nWhistleblower Protection Act (5 U.S.C. 2302(b)(8)): Prohibits retaliation for exposing government misconduct.\nFalse Claims Act (31 U.S.C. 3729): Protects individuals who report misuse of federal funds.\n\nDocumented Violations:\n\nRetaliation:\nWhistleblowers exposed mismanagement within the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program (e.g., DI-12112024134) and faced public denials of accommodations and retaliatory actions.\nSuppression of Evidence:\n\nDelayed or incomplete FOIA responses obstruct whistleblower disclosures, violating transparency obligations.\n\nDemands:\nInvestigation: Comprehensive DOJ and OIG investigations into whistleblower retaliation and suppression of disclosures.\nRemedies: Immediate corrective action, including enforcement of whistleblower protections.\n\nKey Case Law:\nGarcia v. Department of Homeland Security, 659 F.3d 1176 (2011): Protects whistleblowers from retaliatory actions under federal law.\nEscalation Measures:\nReferral to the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) to enforce whistleblower protections.\nCriminal investigation into obstruction of justice under 18 U.S.C. 1505.\n\nIII. Taxpayer Oversight Rights\nLegal Basis:\nFederal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (31 U.S.C. 6101 et seq.): Requires transparency in federally funded programs.\n42 U.S.C. 1983: Allows redress for violations of federally protected rights under color of law.\nDocumented Violations:\nFinancial Mismanagement:\nFailure to disclose audits, expenditure records, and budget allocations related to Medicaid ABI Waiver funds, fostering fraud and waste.\n\nObstruction of Accountability:\nLack of transparency in financial oversight violates statutory requirements for public accountability.\nDemands:\n\nAudit: GAO-led forensic audit of Medicaid ABI Waiver expenditures.\nTransparency: Public release of audit findings and immediate remedial actions.\n\nKey Case Law:\nBoard of County Commissioners v. Brown, 520 U.S. 397 (1997): Establishes liability for systemic financial failures in government administration.\nIV. ADA Rights Violations\nLegal Basis:\nADA Title II (42 U.S.C. 12132): Prohibits discrimination in public programs and requires reasonable accommodations.\nSection 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. 794): Mandates equitable access to federally funded programs.\n\nDocumented Violations:\n\nAccessibility Failures:\nRepeated denial of screen-reader-compatible documents and simplified summaries for FOIA requests.\nDiscriminatory Practices:\nExclusionary behavior at public forums violated ADA Title II protections.\n\nDemands:\nCompliance: DOJ Civil Rights Division enforcement of systemic ADA compliance.\nTraining: Mandatory ADA training for all staff and policymakers overseeing public programs.\n\nKey Case Law:\nAlexander v. Choate, 469 U.S. 287 (1985): Emphasizes meaningful access to public services as an ADA requirement.\n\nV. Civil Rights Violations\nLegal Basis:\nCivil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d): Prohibits discrimination in federally funded programs.\nEqual Protection Clause: Prevents discriminatory treatment by public entities.\nDocumented Violations:\n\nDiscrimination:\nUnequal treatment of Medicaid ABI Waiver participants, including public humiliation by officials.\nSystemic Exclusion:\nPractices restricting access to essential services.\n\nDemands:\nIntervention: Federal oversight to eliminate discriminatory practices.\nCorrective Actions: Public acknowledgment and systemic reforms to restore equity.\n\nKey Case Law:\nOlmstead v. L.C., 527 U.S. 581 (1999): Mandates elimination of discriminatory barriers in public programs.\n\nVI. General Remedies Sought\nAccountability Measures:\nIdentification and discipline of personnel responsible for non-compliance.\nTransparency Enforcement:\nRelease of all FOIA-requested records in ADA-compliant formats.\nJustifications for any denials under 5 U.S.C. 552(b).\n\nSystemic Reforms:\nADA training for staff, policy revisions, and procedural overhauls.\nIndependent oversight of program administration.\n\nRestorative Justice:\nCompensation for harm caused by systemic failures and public discrimination.\n\nDavid Medeiros\nFounder, ABI Resources\n\nADA Accommodations Request\nThis request includes explicit ADA accommodations to address cognitive processing challenges resulting from my traumatic brain injury (TBI). These accommodations are legally required under Title II of the ADA (42 U.S.C. 12132) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. 794).\n\nRequested ADA Accommodations\nTo ensure accessibility and compliance with ADA standards (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.), I request the following accommodations for all communications and records:\n\nScreen-Reader Compatible Formats\n\nAll documents must be provided in properly labeled PDFs or plain-text files.\nEnsure that the documents are screen-reader compatible and retain clear, accessible formatting.\nExclusive MuckRock Platform Communication\n\nAll communications must occur exclusively via the MuckRock platform.\nDo not send external links, emails, portals, passwords, codes, or require phone calls for access.\nText Embedded in Email Bodies\n\nKey information must be embedded directly in the email body to facilitate comprehension and accessibility.\nSimplified Summaries\n\nProvide plain-language summaries for complex or legal documents to ensure clarity and understanding.\nIdentification of Responsible Officers\n\nInclude the full name, title, and contact information of all responsible officers handling this request.\nNon-Negotiable Compliance\nThese accommodations are non-negotiable and are essential for ensuring equal access to information. Failure to provide the requested accommodations may constitute a violation of the ADA and the Rehabilitation Act. Thank you for ensuring compliance and accessibility in addressing this request.\n\nCC:\n\nDOJ Civil Rights Division\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nGAO Oversight Committees\nOffice for Civil Rights (OCR)\nOffice of Special Counsel (OSC)\n\nCC:\n\nAndrea Barton Reeves, DSS Commissioner\nGovernor Ned Lamont\nAttorney General William Tong\nSenator Richard Blumenthal\nSenator Chris Murphy\nU.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division\nConnecticut Freedom of Information Commission (FOIC)\nOffice of Government Information Services (OGIS)\n\nCC List\nFederal Oversight\nMerrick Garland, U.S. Attorney General\nKristen Clarke, Assistant Attorney General, Civil Rights Division\nMichael E. Horowitz, Inspector General, DOJ\nGene L. Dodaro, Comptroller General, GAO\nCongressional Committees\nHouse Committee on Oversight and Accountability\nSenate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs\nSenate Judiciary Committee\nAdvocacy Organizations\nOffice of Government Information Services (OGIS)\nTransparency and Civil Rights Watchdogs\n\nCC:\n\nWilliam Tong, Attorney General of Connecticut\nAndrea Barton Reeves, Commissioner, DSS\nAlina M. Semo, Director, OGIS\nAundra Luckey, Chief, FOIA/PA Branch, DOJ\nCMS and OCR Leadership\n\nCC: Congressional Oversight Committees, DOJ Civil Rights Division, OGIS, and relevant stakeholders.\nCopies To:\n\nOffice of the Attorney General, Connecticut\nConnecticut Department of Social Services\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services\nOffice of Government Information Services (OGIS)\n\nCC: Oversight and Accountability Authorities\nRobert F. Kennedy Jr.\nTitle: Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) (Nominated)\nEmail: kennedy.robert@hhs.gov\nOffice Address: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 200 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20201\nPhone: (877) 696-6775\n\nKash Patel\nTitle: Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) (Nominated)\nEmail: kash.patel@fbi.gov\nOffice Address: FBI Headquarters, 935 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20535-0001\nPhone: (202) 324-3000\n\nDr. Mehmet Oz\nTitle: Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) (Nominated)\nEmail: dr.oz@cms.hhs.gov\nOffice Address: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21244\nPhone: (800) 633-4227\n\nVivek Ramaswamy\nTitle: Co-Chair, Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)\nEmail: vivek.ramaswamy@doge.gov\nOffice Address: Department of Government Efficiency, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500\nPhone: (202) 456-1414\n\nElon Musk\nTitle: Co-Chair, Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)\nEmail: elon.musk@doge.gov\nOffice Address: Department of Government Efficiency, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500\nPhone: (202) 456-1414\n\nState of Connecticut\nNed Lamont\nTitle: Governor of Connecticut\nPhone: (860) 566-4840\nEmail: governor.lamont@ct.gov\n\nWilliam Tong\nTitle: Attorney General of Connecticut\nPhone: (860) 808-5318\nEmail: attorney.general@ct.gov\n\nAndrea Barton Reeves\nTitle: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)\nPhone: (860) 424-5053\nEmail: andrea.bartonreeves@ct.gov\n\nConnecticut Freedom of Information Commission (FOIC)\nPhone: (860) 566-5682\nEmail: foi@ct.gov\n\nMatthew S. Antonetti\nTitle: Legal Director, Connecticut Department of Social Services\nPhone: (860) 424-5386\nEmail: matthew.antonetti@ct.gov\n\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)\nXavier Becerra\nTitle: Secretary, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services\nPhone: (202) 690-7000\nEmail: HHS_FOIA@hhs.gov\n\nChiquita Brooks-LaSure\nTitle: Administrator, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nPhone: (410) 786-3000\nEmail: FOIA_Request@cms.hhs.gov\n\nLisa Pino\nTitle: Director, Office for Civil Rights (OCR), HHS\nPhone: (800) 368-1019\nEmail: ocrmail@hhs.gov\n\nEmmett Nicholson\nTitle: Senior Medicaid Compliance Official, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nPhone: (410) 786-7623\nEmail: emmett.nicholson@cms.hhs.gov\n\nMichelle A. James\nTitle: Medicaid Oversight Official, CMS\nPhone: (410) 786-3033\nEmail: michelle.james@cms.hhs.gov\n\nU.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)\nMerrick B. Garland\nTitle: Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice\nPhone: (202) 514-2000\nEmail: doj.oag@usdoj.gov\n\nKristen Clarke\nTitle: Assistant Attorney General, Civil Rights Division\nPhone: (202) 514-4609\nEmail: civilrights.justice@usdoj.gov\n\nMichael E. Horowitz\nTitle: Inspector General, DOJ Office of Inspector General\nPhone: (202) 514-3435\nEmail: oig.hotline@usdoj.gov\n\nPriscilla Jones\nTitle: Supervisory Administrative Specialist, Office of Information Policy (OIP)\nPhone: (202) 514-3642\nEmail: oip.foia@usdoj.gov\n\nMichael G. Seidel\nTitle: Section Chief, Record/Information Dissemination Section, FBI\nPhone: (202) 324-3000\nEmail: foipaquestions@fbi.gov\n\nAlina M. Semo\nTitle: Director, Office of Government Information Services (OGIS), National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)\nPhone: (202) 741-5770 | Toll-Free: 1-877-684-6448\nEmail: ogis@nara.gov\n\nCongressional Oversight Committees\nJames Comer\nTitle: Chair, House Committee on Oversight and Accountability\nPhone: (202) 225-5074\nEmail: oversightpress@mail.house.gov\n\nGary Peters\nTitle: Chair, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs\nPhone: (202) 224-2627\nEmail: committee@hsgac.senate.gov\n\nJamie Raskin\nTitle: Chair, House Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties\nPhone: (202) 225-5341\nEmail: civilrights@mail.house.gov\n\nDick Durbin\nTitle: Chair, Senate Judiciary Committee\nPhone: (202) 224-2152\nEmail: judiciary@senate.gov\n\nRosa DeLauro\nTitle: Ranking Member, House Appropriations Committee\nPhone: (202) 225-3661\nEmail: appropriations@mail.house.gov\n\nBernie Sanders\nTitle: Chair, Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee\nPhone: (202) 224-5141\nEmail: helpcommittee@senate.gov\n\nCatherine Lhamon\nTitle: Chair, U.S. Commission on Civil Rights\nPhone: (202) 376-7533\nEmail: contact@usccr.gov\n\nRichard Blumenthal\nTitle: Senator, Connecticut\nPhone: (202) 224-2823\nEmail: blumenthal@senate.gov\n\nChris Murphy\nTitle: Senator, Connecticut\nPhone: (202) 224-4041\nEmail: murphy@senate.gov\n\nSincerely,\nDavid Medeiros\nFounder, ABI Resources\nDB.42.131.Inf. https://www.ctbraininjury.com/blog/tags/db-42-131-inf\nhttps://x.com/ABIresources/status/1866212331279339765 https://www.youtube.com/@ABI.RESOURCES-CT-ABI-MFP-CARE/videos?view=0&sort=dd&shelf_id=2\n\nReference: OPM ID # 24-85 A-2025-00307 FCC-FOIA-2025-000358-A FIC 2024-0683 R000748-102524 2025-F-01035 R000354-102024 R000737-102024 AD2414036 A-2025-00351 2025-00027-A-PHS A-2025-00395 2025-00434-FOIA-OS A-2025-00393 OPM ID # 24-83 A-2025-00393 2025-00446-FOIA-PHS A-2025-00399 A-2025-00392 25-00142-FOIA PRI-25-023 2025-00032-A-PHS 110620247022 24-86 AD2414644 R000770-110424 2025-F-01651 A-2025-00467 A-2025-00401 2025-00481-FOIA-PHS 112020247009 112020247039 2025-00024-A-OS A-2025-00420 25-00044-F A-2025-00069 A-2025-00469 OPM ID# 24-88 & 89 2025-00638-FOIA-OS AP-2025-001 FOIA-2025-00562 FOIA-2025-00563 EMRUFOIA111524 F-2025-03523 2025-00574-FOIA-PHS 145-FOI-21320 OPM ID #24-94 25-OIG-177 FOIA-2025-01054 FOIA-2025-01052 EMRUFOIA120324-7 FOIA-2025-01053 OPM ID #24-95 FOIA-2025-01056 EMRUFOIA120324-7 FOIA-2025-01055 FOIA-2025-01057 R005487-120324 2025-01079-FOIA-PHS 2025-01078-FOIA-PHS FOIA-2025-056 PRI-25-045 FOIA-2025-01060 FOIA-2025-01059 FOIA-2025-060 FOIA-2025-01203 EMRUFOIA121324 #FOIA-2025-063 11034 539330-JBZ, 539298-RJM, 534659-XGL, 534094-QZH, 534069-BRQ, 534060-HWM, 533252-GXC, 535276-FSL, 532832-MJV, 532674-QMM, 532671-PPV, 532667-DRF, 523966-VSF, 497211-PFB, 490797-TJJ, 489456-MCB, 490814-TPF, 490215-DKH, 478957-DPX, 478956-NSD, 473045-JNW, 452335-DDT, 413343-FZP, 405540-ZXW, 397760-PRZ, 395050-TWW, 392179-NCW, 385105-BPN, 376153-JVL, 357494-WND, 354718-LTZ, 275528-PKR, 301882-TRG, 327008-WFC, 339860-FQG, 352533-WJH.6779 7959 17303 17304 3033 5282 14733 6577 10 10527 3519 28368 8560 63 3814 4923 4126 6612 4809 4850 35673 74 239 4850 3519 166 10661 14578 239 3033 4923 166 4850 6779 14733 3519 166 4850 10661 14578 3033 4923 166 6779 4850 166 3519 152 4121 10661 74 3033 239 5282 4850 14733 4923 4850 6612 4923 10672 63 6959 115 35673 10661 239 74 6779 3033 239 4923 166 3519 3033 14578 35673 166 4297 14 3519 5123 287 35673 14 59 3519 287 14733 4809 23077 4923 74 4735 4850 2667 3519 796 59 166 856 22238 35673 14 10835 3033 239 4297 3519 14733 796 3519 856 35673 22005 5123 59 4923 3033 239 14733 166 4297 3519 35673 5123 59 3124 14578 7683 74 10661 3033 239 7982 14587 2667 4121 287 129 11109 856 3519 59 2667 35673 22238 2667 11034: Commission on Fiscal Stability and Economic Growth 6779: Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities 7959: Senate Office of Public Records 17303: Republican State Central Committee Of Connecticut 17304: Connecticut House Of Representatives 3033: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 5282: Office of the State Comptroller 14733: Office Of Policy And Management 6577: Office of State Ethics 10: Federal Bureau of Investigation 10527: Federal Communications Commission Office of the Inspector General 3519: Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division 28368: Department Of Labor 8560: Department of Public Health - 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