Whereas, the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland has long been concerned about the quality of services available to blind persons in the State; and
Whereas, such services as are now available are offered not through individual expertise and commitment but as a part of general vocational rehabilitation services; and
Whereas, the blind of this nation have long recognized that services which should be provided to blind persons have little if any relation to those needed by deaf persons, wheelchair persons, etc., since the problems of blind are unique; and
Whereas, because the overwhelming negative attitude about blindness shared by members of the general public is that blindness is a much more severe disability than other conditions, services provided to blind persons must generally be more comprehensive and expert than those needed by other disabled persons; and
Whereas, in recognition of this fact Congress has authorized states to separate out services for blind persons from general rehabilitation services so that the specific needs of bind persons can be adequately met. Many states have taken advantage of this Congressional mandate and the blind agree that, in almost every instance, a separate agency provides better service: Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in Convention assembled in the City of Hagerstown, Maryland this 25th day of October 1980, that this organization reaffirms its commitment to secure much-needed improved services for blind persons in this state by working toward the establishment of separate comprehensive services for the blind agency; and
Be it further resolved that copies of this resolution be sent to the Governor and appropriate members of the General Assembly.