During our recent "Tour Across Texas," we conducted legislative advocacy trainings in 11 regions and heard firsthand from local chapters about the most pressing challenges impacting the disability community. Your voices shaped our policy priorities for the 89th Texas Legislative Session. Related: Learn about the Texas Legislature and how you can advocate with our new advocacy toolkit!

On Dec. 3, the U.S. Department of Labor announced a proposed rule to phase out the issuance of Section 14(c) certificates which currently allow employers to pay certain workers with disabilities less than the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Use our sample language and get a link to the comment portal here.

Following months of research and interviews with individuals living and working at the intersection of mental health and IDD, we invite you to read The Arc of Texas’ in-depth, investigative report and recommendations authored by Pulitzer Prize investigative journalist Alex Stuckey. Watch this 2-minute overview to hear personal stories:

On Valentine’s Day, we invite you to remind Texas policymakers to “have a heart” for The Arc of Texas, Texans with IDD, and direct support professionals who provide crucial supports to help them live in their communities of choice instead of isolated in institutions. Stay tuned for more details and a Valentine’s Day card you can email to your elected official or hand-deliver to their office in your home district or at the Texas Capitol!

• Take Survey – Medicaid Waiver Referrals for Public School Students: “The Handley Bill” (HB4716) aims to require public school districts to refer students with IDD to their Local IDD Authority for essential services. Share your personal experience to help with this advocacy effort. 
• Personal Story – Special Needs Trusts Bring Peace of Mind to Aging Parents of Children with Disabilities: Rachel was born with cerebral palsy. As her mother ages, planning for Rachel’s future had them both worried. Related: Is The Arc of Texas Master Pooled Trust right for you or your loved one?
• Personal Story – “Caregiving is Not My Identity; It’s Just a Part of My Family’s Dynamic”: Anne is the full-time caregiver for her 24-year-old son with autism. She frequently hears, “I don’t know how you do it,” and replies, “I don’t know any other way—this is our normal.”
• Tech Courses for People with IDD: The Arc U.S. and AT&T joined forces in an $850,000 initiative to equip thousands of people with IDD with digital skills, and ultimately independence, opportunity, and connection in our digital world.