BEINEINU NEWS & NOTES

February 12, 2015

INTERNATIONAL

Measles Vaccine---Autism Speaks revised its policy on immunizations in a statement published on its website last week. “Over the last two decades, extensive research has asked whether there is any link between childhood vaccinations and autism. The results of this research are clear: Vaccines do not cause autism. We urge that all children be fully vaccinated.”

USA

Guardianship Clinic---Tafkid in Brooklyn will be holding a guardianship clinic after Pesach for families whose child with special needs are over 18 and unable to care for themselves. An attorney will help with the process, including assistance in completing the forms. Call 718-252-2236 to reserve a space.

East Ramapo School District---There has been a change to the email address for the East Ramapo School District (Monsey/Spring Valley/ New Square, etc…). The East Ramapo Central School District's e-mail domain name has changed to 'ercsd.org'. Please update your records. E-mails should now be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The old domain name will remain active until August 1, 2015, and e-mails addressed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. will be forwarded to the new domain only until that date.

New Jersey Alert---We have been asked to bring to your attention a proposed plan that will fundamentally shift the way services are provided to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in New Jersey. The State is recommending a series of changes that may have a serious impact on your loved one. Families and stakeholders have until Feb. 26, 2015 to provide feedback.  Background:

• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal agency responsible for parts of Medicaid,  recently released a final rule to ensure that Medicaid's Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) programs provide full access to the benefits of community living and offer services in the most integrated settings. (Plan is attached)
• Each state must now submit a Transition Plan to CMS that explains how it will come into compliance with this final rule.
• States will have five years to come into compliance with the CMS requirements.

Within New Jersey's compliance plan the Department of Human Services has included a number of provisions of concern to us that may concern you too. They are as follows:  Continue reading here

College Scholarships---For those of you who have a family member attending college, we have attached a spreadsheet featuring a number of college scholarships made available this year by various sponsors. Please see attached list.