The Parents Coordinating Council OPPOSES the closure of Lanterman Developmental Center.

The Parents Coordinating Council (PCC) represents the families and friends of the Lanterman residents, who have severe and profound developmental disabilities, along with fragile medical conditions or severe behavioral issues that require professional care to ensure that they may live their lives to their potential.

Lanterman Developmental Center is the home of our family members and others, where they receive the necessary services and supports outlined in their Individual Program Plan, and as required by law (the Lanterman Act).

The closure of Lanterman Developmental Center would force the residents to try to obtain these services in other settings, many of which are not available or are already over-burdened due to the ongoing fiscal crisis in California. The transfer of Lanterman residents to community settings would jeopardize their lives and those of others who rely on a community system that is not sufficient to care for everyone with complex medical and behavioral needs at the professional level required. There is no assurance that the residents will receive the services they need if they are moved to the community.

For these and other reasons, the Parents Coordinating Council is opposed to the closure of Lanterman Developmental Center.