South Carolina panel recommends governor control of agency for people with disabilities

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A legislative panel recommends that the governor be put in charge of the agency that helps South Carolinians with disabilities.

The Greenville News reported the House Legislative Oversight Committee has endorsed a proposal to place the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs in the governor's cabinet.

The newspaper has reported for two years about allegations of abuse and neglect, long waits for services, questions of financial management and problems with local boards.

The agency is run by commissioners appointed by the governor now. But the governor does not have direct control of the department. The General Assembly would have to approve any changes.

Interim Director Patrick Maley says he thinks the agency can be more responsive to the public if it remains separate from the governor's office.