Marissa Berg

NH Citizens with Developmental Disabilities and Brain Injuries often face significant challenges in accessing their communities due to the scarcity of public transportation options in the state. While options like Uber, Lyft, or Taxis are an option for some, large parts of rural NH don't have this option- there are simply no drivers regularly available in those areas. For people with disabilities who do not have a driver's license or own a vehicle, this means they are excluded from the right to participate in their government. This also excludes caregivers who need to stay home to care for a disabled child, spouse, or other family member. NH is in the midst of a critical shortage of caregivers, leaving many families unable to find reliable support. Community Support Network, Inc. supports HB 1032 because it would allow greater participation in governmental councils for people who experience challenges in getting to meetings in other parts of the state due to their disability or their role as a caregiver. In a system where the voices of those people with lived experience are so critical, there needs to be fewer barriers to full participation.