Advocacy

We Need Your Advocacy Help for 4th COVID-19 Relief Package

After passing three large packages and several smaller bills to address the Coronavirus pandemic, the Senate is negotiating terms for the fourth COVID-19 relief bill. The House passed its 4th COVID-19 Relief Package in May, the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions (HEROES) Act (H.R.6800), which contained many positive provisions for people with disabilities. Unfortunately, the HEROES Act is considered by the Senate majority to be a very partisan bill, so the Senate will be drafting its own COVID-19 Relief Bill instead of taking up the HEROES Act as a starting point for negotiations.

Addressing Systemic Racism
In response to the killing of George Floyd and other black individuals in recent weeks and the impact of systemic racism on our society, NDSC released a statement that condemns systemic racism and recognizes that as an organization, we need to do more.  The statement was followed by a video from Executive Director, David Tolleson pledging NDSC’s support of the Black community, stating our commitment to stand by all who are calling for an end to systemic racism in our society, our re-commitment to serve all families that need us, and for our leadership to reflect our community.

Invitation to Attend NDSC Advocacy Training Boot Camp

NDSC’s virtual Convention from Your Couch has begun, but there is still time to register and receive all of the workshop recordings. NDSC’s Policy & Advocacy Team invites you to attend the NDSC Advocacy Training Boot Camp, a free event for all Convention from Your Couch registrants. Aimed at beginner advocates this two-hour LIVE session, to be held on Saturday, June 27, from 1:00 PM ET – 3:00 PM ET will feature presentations from effective self-advocates, parent advocates, and the expert NDSC Policy & Advocacy Team. Learn what advocacy is, the basics of the legislative process, how to engage and build relationships with elected officials, and how to utilize social media in your advocacy efforts.  You will also receive other important resources and tips all from the comfort of your own home. We hope to “see” you there!

Federal Coronavirus Legislation Update

The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic has upended everyone’s lives in many ways, but it appears that the disability community has been disproportionately impacted. Congress has passed three significant bills to address this crisis, yet many priorities of the disability community have not been adequately addressed. NDSC is working with our partners in the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities to advocate for these priorities. We have also joined over 200 disability, civil rights, faith-based, and health advocacy organizations led by the American Association for People with Disabilities in sending a letter to Congress outlining our priorities and imploring Congress to include them in the next COVID-19 bill.

Inclusion of People with Disabilities in COVID-19 Coronavirus Policy and Plans

The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic not only threatens the health of people with Down syndrome and other disabilities; it threatens their rights and independence across many areas, such as education, independent living, employment, transportation, housing, and even basic day-to-day activities. NDSC, through the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) and our other partnerships and alliances, has been working with legislators on Capitol Hill to make sure that the rights and needs of people with disabilities are included in any legislation addressing the current public health crisis and future crises.

President’s Budget for FY 2021 Released

President Trump has released his Budget Request for the Fiscal Year 2021 (FY 2021). This is the first step in the complex process of funding the federal government and is indicative of the Administration’s policy priorities. The House and Senate budget committees will review the budget and create their own versions, which will need to be passed by all relevant committees and through both chambers of Congress before becoming law. T

Happy Holidays from the NDSC Policy Team!

As 2019 comes to a close and we welcome in a new decade, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your interest in policy and recognition of its importance. Laws that are passed or regulations that are modified or repealed, on the national and state level, will have an impact on our loved ones with Down syndrome and their families for many years to come.

NDSC Hosts Policy Event in Washington, D.C. in Collaboration with American University Law School

On Monday, November 4, 2019, the NDSC Policy Team; comprised of Heather Sachs, Ricki Sabia, Stephanie Smith Lee, and Lauren Camp Gates in collaboration with American University Washington College of Law, hosted an event entitled “It’s Never Too Early to Prepare: A Discussion of Pathways to Workforce Readiness and Employment.” During this event, attended by nearly 100 people, there were two panel discussions about the laws and policies that successfully prepare students for the transition to competitive integrated employment from early school age through adulthood.