Act on Persons with Disabilities (LPSH) - Purpose (BEHG)

1. The purpose of this law is to promote the autonomy and self-determination of people with disabilities and their participation in society.

2. The law also aims at recognizing the competencies and needs of people with disabilities within society.

3. It regulates governmental actions and complements existing federal and cantonal legislation.

1. Persons with disabilities are those who, due to a significant and lasting impairment of one or more of their cognitive, physical, psychological, or sensory functions, or due to environmental demands, are limited in their participation in society without support measures.

1. For the realization of a coordinated policy at the federal and cantonal levels, the state collaborates with people with disabilities as well as public and private partners.

2. It reviews the implementation of international and federal legislation regarding the rights and equality of people with disabilities in the canton.

3. It ensures the coordination of service offerings for people with disabilities.

1. In the performance of all its duties, the state shall take into account the rights, abilities, and specific needs of persons with disabilities as well as the principle of self-determination.

2. It shall intervene in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity.

3. The state shall take measures aimed at

a) developing care services in accordance with the abilities and specific needs of persons with disabilities;

b) supporting family caregivers and volunteers in accompanying persons with disabilities;

c) ensuring all persons with disabilities have the right to education and training in an environment that meets their well-being and developmental potential;

d) enabling persons with disabilities to engage in professional activities in accordance with their abilities and interests;

e) promoting the mobility of persons with disabilities and developing housing and infrastructures to adapt to their needs;

f) encouraging persons with disabilities to participate in the tasks and activities of the community;

g) facilitating access to information and promoting communication means adapted to the specific needs and abilities of persons with disabilities.

4. The state shall raise public awareness of the specific needs of persons with disabilities and promote recognition of their contributions to society.

1. The State Council determines the priorities of government actions in a multi-year action plan, in which the necessary financial resources for its implementation are established.

1. Care services are deemed to encompass all socio-pedagogical and occupational-therapy services, as well as additional support measures, which are provided in institutions or on an outpatient basis, enabling individuals with disabilities to manage their daily lives and participate in society.

2. The State is responsible for the development and organization of a strong range of services that enhances the autonomy and freedom of choice for individuals with disabilities.

3. For the care services provided by special education institutions, specific legislation applies.

4. The State may commission private entities to promote the development and coordination of outpatient care services and to support caregiving and nursing family members through advisory and educational offerings as well as relief services.

1. The special legislation applies to the education of persons with disabilities.

2. The state may commission private bodies to provide further education and service offerings for the personal development of persons with disabilities.

1. The state supports businesses in promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workforce.

2. For this purpose, it establishes a fund.

1. The State may commission private entities to develop transportation services for individuals who require such services due to their disabilities.

2. Additionally, the State may provide financial support to projects that facilitate the adaptation of housing and infrastructure to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities.

1. The State may provide financial assistance to support initiatives that promote the participation of persons with disabilities in club and community life.

1. The state promotes the development and usage of communication and information tools that correspond to the skills and needs of people with disabilities.

2. The State Council designates agencies tasked with ensuring access to personalized information for people with disabilities.

3. It may grant financial assistance to support specific projects.

1. Persons who independently provide socio-pedagogical and work-related support services require a professional practice permit.

2. The special legislation applies to the approval of the operation of an institution for people with disabilities.

1. Authorization is granted to professionals who

a) possess the required educational qualification(s);

b) have sufficient professional experience;

c) provide the necessary assurance for the proper practice of the profession.

2. The State Council determines the conditions for the notification obligation of professionals who are established in another canton or abroad and have the right to practice their profession without authorization for a limited period within the Canton of Fribourg.

1. Applicants may be required to provide any relevant information or evidence necessary for the issuance of a professional practice permit. Additional information may be obtained from the competent authorities and instances as well as from the person's employers.

1. The Federal Council determines the commencement of this law. [1]

2. This law is subject to the legislative referendum. It is not subject to the financial referendum.