Incapacity Rights advocates file federal grievance over governor’s vaccine plan

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) – A day after Governor Ned Lamont introduced the age-related vaccine to the White House, he received a formal challenge from supporters of disability rights.

Disability Rights Connecticut filed a complaint with the US Civil Rights Office on Thursday. They claim that the new policy discriminates against people with disabilities.

“Very disappointed,” said Deborah Dorfman, the executive director of Disability Rights Connecticut. “We have received many calls from our constituents in the community. People are very, very angry. “

Dorfman says time is of the essence and that it needs to do something right away.

“People’s lives are at stake, what we have right now. I think with teachers and underserved populations aged 55 and over, I target those who are most in need, those who are most at risk. And if the vaccinations are continued within three weeks, it will be 45 years and more, ”said Governor Ned Lamont.

In the complaint, DRCT requests the OCR to investigate and publish the results immediately. They say the age related policy is disability discrimination which is against federal law.

“We disagree that the older adults should be prioritized, we absolutely agree,” said Dorfman. “It’s not about saying that they shouldn’t be prioritized. What we are saying is that people with underlying medical conditions should not be put aside, but that they too should be prioritized regardless of age. “

The disability rights group welcomes a discussion with the governor about their concerns.