{ "muckrock_id": "175109", "agency": "Department of Social Services", "title": "To Whom It May Concern:", "first_date": "2024-10-23", "last_date": "2025-01-01", "sourceSearchUrl": "https://www.muckrock.com/foi/list/?q=175109", "route": "/foia/175109-department-of-social-services/", "messages": [ { "when": "2024-10-23 09:39:16", "file": "2024-10-23T09_39_16.965266 Communication.txt", "text": "To Whom It May Concern:\n\nPursuant to the Connecticut Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:\n\nState and Federal FOIA Request for Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program Provider Registry\n\nState FOIA Request\nTo:\nFOIA Officer and Supervisory Officers\nConnecticut Department of Social Services\n55 Farmington Avenue\nHartford, CT 06105\n\nFederal FOIA Request\nTo:\nFOIA Officer and Supervisory Officers\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nFreedom of Information Act Office\nMail Stop N2-20-16\n7500 Security Boulevard\nBaltimore, Maryland 21244\n\nRe: Freedom of Information Act Request for Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program Provider Registry and Related Documents\nDear FOIA Officer and Supervisory Officers,\n\nPursuant to the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552) and Connecticuts FOIA statutes (Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-200 et seq.), I am writing to request the following records related to the Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program:\n\nRequested Records:\nComplete and current provider registry, including:\n- Provider names\n- Contact details (physical addresses, email addresses)\n- Areas of specialty and services offered\n- Provider enrollment dates and current status\n\nDocuments governing provider inclusion, such as:\nPolicies, regulations, or statutes detailing the criteria for selecting, monitoring, and removing providers from the ABI Waiver Program registry\nRecords of complaints, violations, or disciplinary actions, including:\n\nAny and all records related to complaints, violations, or actions taken against providers in connection with their participation in the ABI Waiver Program\nCorrespondence or documentation regarding registry maintenance, including:\n\nDocumentation outlining the process and frequency of updating the registry, who is responsible for maintaining the records, and how updates are communicated to the public\n\nAgencies to Provide Information or Enforce Compliance:\nIn recognition of the publics right to transparency in the administration of Medicaid and public health programs, this request emphasizes that multiple state and federal agencies may provide the requested information or compel compliance:\n\nConnecticut Freedom of Information Commission (FOIC)\nEnforces compliance with state FOIA laws.\nContact: 18-20 Trinity Street, Hartford, CT 06106\nPhone: (860) 566-5682\n\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR)\nEnsures proper management of Medicaid programs and enforces civil rights laws.\nContact: 200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20201\nPhone: (800) 368-1019\n\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nOversees state Medicaid programs and can compel state agencies to provide records.\nContact: FOIA_Request@cms.hhs.gov | Phone: (410) 786-5353\n\nHHS Office of Inspector General (OIG)\nInvestigates fraud or abuse in Medicaid programs.\nContact: Wilbur J. Cohen Building, 330 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 20201\nPhone: (800) 447-8477\n\nMedicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) Connecticut Attorney Generals Office\nInvestigates Medicaid fraud or improper management.\nPhone: (860) 808-5318\n\nU.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division\nEnforces ADA and other civil rights laws related to Medicaid services.\nPhone: (202) 514-4609\n\nConnecticut State Auditors of Public Accounts\nConducts audits of state agencies, including CT DSS.\nPhone: (860) 240-8651\n\nLegal Basis for Request:\nThis request is made under 5 U.S.C. 552 (FOIA) and Connecticuts FOIA laws (Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-200 et seq.). These statutes obligate public agencies to provide records necessary for the publics oversight of government operations, particularly those involving public health and Medicaid services.\n5 U.S.C. 552: The Freedom of Information Act statute, which outlines the right to access federal agency records, the process for making requests, and the exceptions to disclosure\n\nRequest for Expedited Processing:\nGiven the critical need for transparency in the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program, I request expedited processing under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(E). Delays in providing this information may hinder public oversight and efforts to ensure proper care for individuals with acquired brain injuries.\n\nRequest for Accommodation and Fee Waiver:\nAs an individual living with a brain injury and a stroke survivor, I request reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.). Please provide all requested records directly via email to AabiWR@live.com. Do not use any portals or third-party websites that pose barriers to accessing this information. I request the reasonable accommodation to know the complete names and titles of FOIA representatives communicating with me. \n\nAdditionally, I request a waiver of all fees associated with this request, as it is made in the public interest to ensure transparency and accountability in the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program, and not for commercial purposes.\n\nResponse Time:\nUnder federal FOIA and Connecticut public records laws, agencies are required to respond to this request within specified timeframes. Contact me exclusively via email at AabiWR@live.com.\n\nConclusion:\nI look forward to your prompt and complete response. If you require any further information, please contact me via email at AabiWR@live.com. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.\n\nSincerely,\nDavid Medeiros\nFounder & Owner, ABI Resources\n39 Kings HWY STE C\nGales Ferry, Connecticut, 06335\nAabiWR@live.com\n\nKey Legal Citations:\n5 U.S.C. 552 (FOIA) Federal statute governing public access to government records.\nConn. Gen. Stat. 1-200 et seq. Connecticuts Freedom of Information laws.\nAmericans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) Ensures reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.\n\nI also request that, if possible and pursuant to Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-212(d), fees be waived as I believe this request is in the public interest and not made for commercial gain. The requested documents will be made available to the public at MuckRock.com.\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 4 business days, as the statute requires.\n\nSincerely,\n\nDAVID MEDEIROS" }, { "when": "2024-10-24 10:41:46", "file": "2024-10-24T10_41_46 Communication.txt", "text": "Your request for information has been received.\n\nThe Department will respond in accordance with the requirements of the CT FOIA.\n\nIf there are any costs associated with complying with your request, an estimate will be provided to you before the records are compiled and provided to you.\n\nThank you,\nKelly\n\n[cid:image001.png@01DB2601.4BBD46C0]\nKELLY BARTOMIOLI\nParalegal Specialist\nCommunications & Legislative Management\nPrivacy Officer & FOIA Officer\nDepartment of Social Services\nPhone: 860-984-0215\nKelly.Bartomioli@ct.gov\nPrivacyOfficer.DSS@ct.gov\nFOIA.DSS@ct.gov" }, { "when": "2024-11-07 12:17:43", "file": "2024-11-07T12_17_43.158083 Communication.txt", "text": "To:\nKelly Bartomioli, Paralegal Specialist, FOIA Officer and Privacy Officer\nConnecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)\n55 Farmington Avenue\nHartford, CT 06105\nEmail: Kelly.Bartomioli@ct.gov\nPrivacyOfficer.DSS@ct.gov\nFOIA.DSS@ct.gov\n\nAnd to:\nFOIA Officer and Supervisory Officers\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nFreedom of Information Act Office\nMail Stop N2-20-16\n7500 Security Boulevard\nBaltimore, Maryland 21244\n\nSubject: Follow-up on Compliance and Timeliness for FOIA Request Medicaid ABI Waiver Program Provider Registry\n\nTo the FOIA Officers and Supervisory Officers at DSS and CMS,\n\nThis letter serves as a follow-up and an official appeal to ensure complete, timely compliance with my October 23, 2024, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request submitted to the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This request seeks essential records on the Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program provider registry.\n\nMy FOIA request is made pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552 (Federal FOIA) and Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-200 et seq. (Connecticut FOIA). It details specific records that are necessary for the public oversight of Medicaid programs, particularly those affecting individuals with acquired brain injuries. Under federal and state FOIA statutes, DSS and CMS are obligated to comply promptly and fully.\n\n1. Reiteration of Requested Records\nFor clarity and completeness, the requested records include:\n\nA current provider registry for the ABI Waiver Program with:\nProvider names\nContact details (addresses, emails)\nSpecialties and services offered\nEnrollment dates and current status\nPolicies, regulations, and statutes on criteria for provider selection, monitoring, and removal from the registry\nRecords of complaints, violations, and disciplinary actions involving providers in the ABI Waiver Program\nDocumentation of registry maintenance processes, update frequency, personnel responsible, and public communication methods\n2. Requirement for Expedited Processing\nIn my initial request, I requested expedited processing under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(E) due to the public interest in transparency within Medicaid programs. The ABI Waiver Program supports vulnerable populations, and delays in information disclosure could hinder timely oversight and accountability. Federal and Connecticut FOIA regulations mandate that agencies respond to such requests within defined timeframesspecifically, four business days for Connecticut state agencies (Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-210) and 20 business days for federal agencies. I urge DSS and CMS to honor these statutory requirements.\n\n3. Fee Waiver and ADA Accommodation Request\nThis request is made strictly in the public interest, intending to promote transparency and inform public oversight. Therefore:\n\nFee Waiver: As this request does not serve a commercial interest, I request a waiver of all associated fees in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(A)(iii) and Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-212(d).\nADA Accommodation: As a brain injury survivor, I require reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq. This includes access to records in an accessible electronic format and direct email communication without intermediary portals. Additionally, I request that all correspondence include the full names and titles of FOIA representatives communicating with me to ensure clarity and facilitate follow-up if needed.\n4. Compliance and Oversight Agencies\nTo reinforce the significance of this request, I have notified oversight bodies responsible for monitoring FOIA compliance:\n\nConnecticut Freedom of Information Commission (FOIC)\n(Contact: 18-20 Trinity Street, Hartford, CT 06106 | Phone: (860) 566-5682)\n\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR)\n(Contact: 200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20201 | Phone: (800) 368-1019)\n\nOffice of Inspector General (OIG) for HHS\n(Contact: Wilbur J. Cohen Building, 330 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 20201 | Phone: (800) 447-8477)\n\nMedicaid Fraud Control Unit, Connecticut Attorney Generals Office\n(Contact: 165 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106 | Phone: (860) 808-5318)\n\n5. Conclusion and Request for Timely Compliance\nIn compliance with federal and state FOIA laws and ADA accommodation requirements, I respectfully request that both DSS and CMS:\n\nConfirm the scope of records being compiled to satisfy this request\nProvide the requested records electronically by email within the statutory timelines\nDisclose any anticipated delays or provide a cost estimate only if fee waiver is denied\nPlease address all correspondence to me directly via email at AabiWR@live.com to ensure uninterrupted and accessible communication. If clarification is needed on any portion of this request, do not hesitate to reach out to facilitate prompt compliance.\n\nThank you for your attention and cooperation. I look forward to receiving a timely response in accordance with FOIA and ADA regulations.\n\nSincerely,\n\nDavid Medeiros\nFounder & Owner, ABI Resources\n39 Kings HWY STE C\nGales Ferry, Connecticut, 06335\nAabiWR@live.com" }, { "when": "2024-11-20 10:36:11", "file": "2024-11-20T10_36_11.270079 Communication.txt", "text": "Date: November 20, 2024\n\nTo:\n\nKelly Bartomioli, FOIA Officer and Privacy Officer\nConnecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)\n55 Farmington Avenue, Hartford, CT 06105\nEmail: PrivacyOfficer.DSS@ct.gov, FOIA.DSS@ct.gov\n\nFOIA Officer and Supervisory Officers\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nFreedom of Information Act Office\nMail Stop N2-20-16\n7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21244\n\nCC:\n\nDr. Deidre S. Gifford, Commissioner, DSS\nChiquita Brooks-LaSure, Administrator, CMS\nXavier Becerra, Secretary, HHS\nWilliam Tong, Connecticut Attorney General\nJeffrey Beckham, Secretary, Connecticut Office of Policy and Management\nMartin M. Looney, President Pro Tempore, Connecticut Senate\nMatthew Ritter, Speaker, Connecticut House of Representatives\nRelevant Oversight Agencies (listed below)\nSubject:\nAppeal for Full Compliance with Federal and State FOIA Requests Regarding Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program Provider Registry and Related Records\n\nTo Whom It May Concern,\nThis formal appeal is submitted pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552) and the Connecticut Freedom of Information Act (Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-200 et seq.). The appeal demands immediate and full compliance with my October 23, 2024, FOIA request for essential records concerning the Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program Provider Registry.\n\nThe following letter provides a comprehensive legal and constitutional basis for my request and addresses any potential challenges preemptively. It asserts the absolute necessity of adherence to FOIA, ADA requirements, and whistleblower protections to uphold transparency, accountability, and equitable administration of Medicaid services.\n\n1. Reiteration of Records Requested\nI request complete, unredacted records as follows:\n\nProvider Registry:\n\nNames, contact details (addresses, email addresses), specialties, services offered, enrollment dates, and current status for all Medicaid ABI Waiver Program providers.\nPolicies and Criteria:\n\nAll policies, regulations, or statutes governing provider selection, monitoring, or removal from the Medicaid ABI Waiver Program registry.\nComplaints and Violations:\n\nAll records related to complaints, investigations, violations, or disciplinary actions involving Medicaid ABI Waiver Program providers.\nRegistry Maintenance Records:\n\nDocumentation detailing the processes, frequency, personnel, and public communication methods for maintaining and updating the provider registry.\nRelevant Correspondence:\n\nAll correspondence between DSS, CMS, and relevant third parties regarding the ABI Waiver Program registry and its administration.\n2. Legal Foundations and Constitutional Basis\nFederal FOIA Compliance\n5 U.S.C. 552 mandates that federal agencies such as CMS disclose records unless a specific statutory exemption applies. Failure to provide the requested records promptly violates the clear intent of FOIA, which is to ensure public access to government operations.\nConnecticut FOIA Compliance\nUnder Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-210, DSS must make public records promptly available unless an explicit exemption applies. This statute reflects Connecticut's commitment to transparency and the publics right to scrutinize government-funded programs.\nConstitutional Principles\nFirst Amendment: Protects the right to petition the government for redress of grievances, ensuring public access to information that facilitates accountability.\nDue Process Clause (Fourteenth Amendment): Guarantees the right to fair procedures, which extends to accessing public information critical for holding government agencies accountable.\nSupremacy Clause (Article VI, Clause 2): Mandates federal FOIA preempts any conflicting state practices that might obstruct transparency.\nLegal Precedents Supporting Transparency and Accountability\nNARA v. Favish, 541 U.S. 157 (2004): Establishes the publics right to access records that facilitate oversight of government actions.\nU.S. DOJ v. Reporters Committee, 489 U.S. 749 (1989): Confirms FOIAs primary purpose is to inform citizens about government operations.\nLane v. Brown, 801 F.3d 1031 (9th Cir. 2015): Reinforces that agencies must comply with ADA in all aspects of service, including FOIA processes.\n3. Updated Non-Negotiable ADA Accommodations\nTo ensure accessibility and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.), I require the following accommodations:\n\nMuckRock Platform, Only Communication:\n\nAll responses must be submitted via MuckRock. No physical mail, phone calls, portal logins, or external platforms are permitted.\nDirect Text in Body:\n\nAll response text must be embedded in the email body for immediate accessibility.\nPDF Attachments:\n\nDocuments must be clearly labeled, screen-reader compatible, and in accessible electronic formats.\nSimplified Summaries for Complex Records:\n\nSummaries or explanations must accompany records containing technical or complex language to ensure comprehension.\nIdentification of Responsible Personnel:\n\nNames, titles, and contact details of all FOIA officers and supervisory personnel handling this request must be provided.\nDetailed Justifications for Redactions and Denials:\n\nAny redactions or denials must include specific statutory citations and detailed explanations, per 5 U.S.C. 552(b).\nExpedited Processing:\n\nRequests must be processed expeditiously under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(E) and Executive Order 13392.\n4. Fee Waiver Justification\nThis request serves the public interest and does not further any commercial purpose. The requested records are critical for public oversight and accountability, particularly regarding the ethical administration of Medicaid services.\n\nFederal FOIA: 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(A)(iii) provides for a fee waiver for requests that primarily benefit the public.\nConnecticut FOIA: Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-212(d) similarly allows fee waivers for public-interest requests.\n5. Oversight Agencies Notified\nTo ensure transparency, compliance, and accountability, the following oversight agencies have been notified about this appeal and its urgency. These agencies are empowered to investigate, enforce, or litigate any failures to comply with FOIA, ADA, or whistleblower protections:\n\nConnecticut Freedom of Information Commission (FOIC)\nRole: The FOIC enforces Connecticuts Freedom of Information laws and oversees the timely and accurate release of public records by state agencies. The FOIC is responsible for adjudicating disputes related to FOIA requests and can compel compliance or recommend legal action for noncompliance.\nContact:\nAddress: 18-20 Trinity Street, Hartford, CT 06106\nPhone: (860) 566-5682\nWebsite: Connecticut FOIC\nHHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR)\nRole: The OCR enforces civil rights laws related to federally funded programs, including ensuring compliance with the ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. OCR can investigate whether the DSS or CMS failed to provide reasonable accommodations or violated anti-discrimination laws during FOIA processing.\nContact:\nAddress: 200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20201\nPhone: (800) 368-1019\nWebsite: HHS OCR\nOffice of Inspector General (OIG), HHS\nRole: The OIG investigates potential fraud, waste, and abuse in federally funded programs like Medicaid. They are responsible for holding DSS and CMS accountable for any mismanagement, misuse of funds, or failure to comply with federal requirements, including transparency obligations.\nContact:\nAddress: Wilbur J. Cohen Building, 330 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 20201\nPhone: (800) 447-8477\nWebsite: HHS OIG\nMedicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), Connecticut Attorney Generals Office\nRole: The MFCU investigates Medicaid fraud, abuse, and provider misconduct within Connecticut. They are authorized to examine whether the DSS has acted improperly in the administration of Medicaid programs or failed to release public records critical for oversight.\nContact:\nAddress: 165 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106\nPhone: (860) 808-5318\nWebsite: Connecticut Attorney General\nU.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Civil Rights Division\nRole: The DOJ Civil Rights Division enforces ADA compliance, including ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access public records. They also investigate civil rights violations in federally funded programs like Medicaid. Failure to provide accessible records could result in DOJ enforcement action.\nContact:\nAddress: 950 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20530\nPhone: (202) 514-4609\nWebsite: DOJ Civil Rights Division\n6. Heads of Relevant Agencies\nThe following officials are named for oversight and accountability purposes. They bear direct responsibility for ensuring compliance with federal and state laws governing FOIA, Medicaid transparency, and ADA accommodations:\n\nConnecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)\nDr. Deidre S. Gifford, Commissioner\nRole: Oversees Connecticut's Medicaid programs and compliance with FOIA and ADA obligations.\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nChiquita Brooks-LaSure, Administrator\nRole: Responsible for ensuring that federal Medicaid programs, including waiver programs like ABI, comply with federal laws and FOIA requirements.\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)\nXavier Becerra, Secretary\nRole: Ultimately responsible for all federal oversight related to CMS and OCR, ensuring compliance with transparency, anti-discrimination, and ADA laws.\nConnecticut Attorney Generals Office\nWilliam Tong, Attorney General\nRole: Enforces state laws, investigates Medicaid fraud, and ensures compliance with Connecticut FOIA statutes.\nConnecticut Office of Policy and Management (OPM)\nJeffrey Beckham, Secretary\nRole: Oversees Connecticut state agencies operations, including DSS, to ensure transparency and efficient use of taxpayer funds.\n7. Conclusion and Demand\nImmediate Compliance:\n\nRelease all requested records without delay in accordance with statutory deadlines under 5 U.S.C. 552 and Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-210.\nProvision of Accommodations:\n\nComply fully with the Non-Negotiable ADA Accommodations, including accessible electronic formats, direct email correspondence, and detailed explanations for any redactions or denials.\nNotification of Oversight Agencies:\n\nDSS and CMS are advised that failure to comply will result in escalation to the notified oversight agencies for investigation, enforcement, and, if necessary, legal action.\nStatutory Timelines:\n\nDSS must respond within 4 business days under Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-210. CMS must respond within 20 business days under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(A). Any delays must be accompanied by a clear legal justification.\nFailure to comply will leave no alternative but to pursue formal legal action under federal and state law, ensuring accountability through the courts and oversight bodies. This appeal leaves no room for loopholes or manipulations and demonstrates a full commitment to transparency, equity, and justice.\n\nSincerely,\nDavid Medeiros\nFounder & Owner, ABI Resources\n39 Kings HWY STE C\nGales Ferry, Connecticut, 06335" }, { "when": "2025-01-01 06:24:33", "file": "2025-01-01T06_24_33.050661 Communication.txt", "text": "Date: January 1, 2025\n\nTo: All\nKelly Bartomioli, Paralegal Specialist, FOIA Officer, Privacy Officer\nConnecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)\n55 Farmington Avenue, Hartford, CT 06105\nEmail: PrivacyOfficer.DSS@ct.gov; FOIA.DSS@ct.gov\n\nFOIA Officer and Supervisory Officers\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)\nFreedom of Information Act Office\nMail Stop N2-20-16, 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21244\nEmail: FOIA_Request@cms.hhs.gov\n\nCC:\nDr. Deidre S. Gifford, Commissioner, DSS\nChiquita Brooks-LaSure, Administrator, CMS\nXavier Becerra, Secretary, HHS\nWilliam Tong, Attorney General, Connecticut\nRelevant Oversight Agencies (see section 5 below)\n\nSubject:\nFinal Appeal: Immediate Compliance with FOIA RequestsMedicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program Provider Registry and Related Records\n\nTo Whom It May Concern,\n\nThis formal appeal demands immediate and full compliance with my October 23, 2024, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request for records related to the Medicaid Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver Program Provider Registry. Submitted under 5 U.S.C. 552 (federal FOIA) and Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-200 et seq. (Connecticut FOIA), this appeal incorporates ADA accommodations under 42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq. and whistleblower protections under 5 U.S.C. 2302(b).\n\n1. Reiteration of Requested Records\nThis request seeks the following unredacted records:\n\nProvider Registry:\nNames, addresses, email addresses, and contact details.\nAreas of specialty, services offered, enrollment dates, and current status.\n\nPolicies and Criteria:\nAll policies, regulations, and criteria governing provider inclusion, monitoring, and removal.\nComplaints and Violations:\nAll complaints, investigations, violations, or disciplinary actions concerning Medicaid ABI Waiver Program providers.\n\nRegistry Maintenance Documentation:\nDetailed processes, responsible personnel, frequency of updates, and public communication methods.\nRelevant Correspondence:\nAll correspondence involving DSS, CMS, or related third parties about the registry or its administration.\n\n2. Legal Foundations and Constitutional Basis\nFederal FOIA Compliance:\nUnder 5 U.S.C. 552, CMS must disclose all requested records unless a statutory exemption explicitly applies. CMSs failure to provide these records within statutory deadlines constitutes a violation of FOIA.\n\nConnecticut FOIA Compliance:\nPer Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-210, DSS must make records promptly available. Non-compliance undermines transparency and public accountability.\n\nConstitutional Protections:\nFirst Amendment: Guarantees public access to government information essential for accountability.\nFourteenth Amendment: Protects due process and ensures equal treatment under the law.\nSupremacy Clause (Article VI, Clause 2): Requires federal FOIA provisions to override conflicting state practices.\nPrecedential Case Law:\nNARA v. Favish, 541 U.S. 157 (2004): Establishes the publics right to access records that expose government accountability.\nLane v. Brown, 801 F.3d 1031 (9th Cir. 2015): Reaffirms ADA compliance in public programs, including record accessibility.\n\n3. Updated Non-Negotiable ADA Accommodations\nTo comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.), I require:\n\nMuckRock Platform, Only Communication: All responses must be submitted through MuckRock. Physical mail, phone calls, portal logins, or external platforms are prohibited.\nDirect Text in Body: All response text must be embedded in the email body for accessibility.\nPDF Attachments: Documents must be labeled, screen-reader compatible, and in accessible formats.\nSimplified Summaries for Complex Records: Plain-language summaries must accompany records with technical or complex language.\nIdentification of FOIA Personnel: Names, titles, and contact details of all FOIA officers and supervisory personnel must be provided.\nDetailed Justifications for Redactions and Denials: Any redactions or denials must include specific statutory citations and detailed explanations under 5 U.S.C. 552(b).\n\n4. Fee Waiver Justification\nAs outlined in my original request, I seek a fee waiver under:\n\n5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(A)(iii): Records are sought for public interest, not commercial use.\nConn. Gen. Stat. 1-212(d): Connecticut FOIA permits fee waivers for public-interest requests.\n\n5. Oversight Agencies Notified\nTo ensure compliance, the following oversight agencies have been notified and will monitor this appeal:\n\nConnecticut Freedom of Information Commission (FOIC)\nHHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR)\nOffice of Inspector General (OIG), HHS\nMedicaid Fraud Control Unit, Connecticut Attorney Generals Office\nU.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Civil Rights Division\n\n6. Statutory Timelines\nDSS must respond within 4 business days under Conn. Gen. Stat. 1-210(a).\nCMS must provide a substantive response or legally valid denial within 20 business days under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(6)(A)(i).\nFailure to comply with these deadlines will result in immediate escalation to the notified oversight agencies for enforcement and legal action.\n\n7. Legal and Administrative Consequences of Non-Compliance\nIf this request is not resolved promptly:\n\nI will escalate to federal and state oversight agencies, including the DOJ Civil Rights Division and HHS OCR, for investigations and potential enforcement actions.\nI will pursue judicial intervention, including seeking injunctive relief, attorneys fees, and penalties under 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(E).\n\n8. Conclusion and Demands\nTo rectify this situation, I demand:\n\nImmediate Compliance: Release all requested records in accessible formats without delay.\nWritten Confirmation: Confirm ADA accommodations, fee waiver eligibility, and expedited processing.\nFailure to comply will leave no alternative but to initiate legal action to enforce compliance and accountability.\n\nSincerely,\nDavid Medeiros\nFounder & Owner, ABI Resources\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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