HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) _ Advocates for those with traumatic brain injury are hoping to find money in the state budget to help more people live in the community rather than expensive institutions.
The Department of Social Services requested funding for 100 more slots, but the extra Medicaid money was not part of Gov. M. Jodi Rell's budget.
There are 100 people waiting for a spot. The program now serves about 350 people and costs $32 million.
Advocates say there is a need for more programs and services in the state for people with traumatic brain injury. According to the Brain Injury Association of Connecticut, 22 people each day, or 8,000 every year, suffer a brain injury.
Rell's office says it would discuss the extra funding if the legislature considers it a priority and the budget is balanced.
The session ends May 7.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
