Support The Work
Podcast Platforms
Imagine someone proposing to install cameras in your home without your consent. You’d likely object strongly, and rightly so. Now, consider a piece of legislation, S1897/A2483, known as Billy Cray’s Law. The New Jersey legislature is aiming to introduce monitoring devices in group homes and community-based settings for people with disabilities. As Kevin Nuñez, I want to clarify that my opinions are my own, shared to shed light on an often overlooked issue.
The origin of this legislation lies in the tragic passing of Billy Cray, who was found dead in a group home closet. Recent articles, such as the one highlighting the push for cameras in group homes, add a layer of complexity to an already contentious debate. Another piece examines the ongoing discourse surrounding whether cameras would genuinely make group homes safer or if they compromise residents’ privacy.
Financially, the burden on providers is immense. The strain on the disability care system has been building for a while and has reached a breaking point, made worse by current issues. Caregivers, the backbone of the system, already face difficulties. Constant scrutiny undermines the trust crucial for effective care.
Proverbs 28:6 NIV Better the poor whose walk is blameless than the rich whose ways are perverse.
Particularly troubling is the provision allowing monitoring devices in bedrooms and at the entrance to bathrooms. If any individual or their family does not wish to be recorded, they must move. This is a forest evacuation. This “choice” is more illusion than empowerment. This bill aims to protect the most vulnerable, but instead, it takes away freedom for all individuals. The disability population is made up of people. Please stop trying to fix the system with a one-size-fits-all solution.
In a time where awareness is crucial, I encourage everyone to conduct their research, form their opinions, and engage in discussions about the potential repercussions of Billy Cray’s Law. It’s not just a matter of legislation; it’s about the well-being and rights of an often marginalized community. The recent push for cameras in group homes, coupled with the ongoing privacy debate as explored in the linked articles, underscores the need for a nuanced approach that balances security with respect for personal privacy.
Sources:
https://nj1015.com/after-man-was-found-dead-in-closet-a-push-in-nj-for-cameras-in-group-homes/
Disability Limbo Newsletter
I started Letters from the Limbo as a way to connect with you on a deeper level. Twice a month, I send out an email filled with personal anecdotes, professional updates (like my recent reelection as Vice Chair of the NJCDD), and the policy insights I don’t share anywhere else. This isn’t just another email—it’s an unfiltered look at the life of a disability advocate. Join my community and get an exclusive, honest look at the work that matters
Thank you for your response. ✨
The Advocacy Life Podcast & Blog 
Leave a comment