We are deeply concerned about the recent Executive Order dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, particularly in relation to its vital role in ensuring the rights and educational opportunities of children with disabilities. Special Education services, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and civil rights protections under laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are…
The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) sends its heartfelt condolences to the families who have experienced tremendous loss in the American Airlines plane and U.S. Army helicopter crash that occurred this week. People have lost family, friends, and colleagues – and we can only imagine their heartbreak in this difficult time. Currently,…
The time has come to end the practice of paying sub-minimum wages to people with developmental disabilities under Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This outdated provision, enacted in 1938, allows employers to pay workers with disabilities less than the federal minimum wage, perpetuating a system of segregation, exploitation, and limited opportunity.…
July 17, 2024 marks the four-year commemoration of the passing of Congressman John Lewis. The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) stands firmly in support of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, recognizing it as a pivotal step toward ensuring equal access to the ballot for all Americans. John Lewis dedicated his…
“REPOSTED WITH PERMISSION. ORIGINALLY APPEARED AT THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF AGING” Arlington, VA, May 2, 2024—With the U.S. facing a dire shortage of professionals to provide home- and community-based services (HCBS) to a rapidly growing population of older adults and people with disabilities, the Direct Care Workforce Strategies Center, led by the National Council…
Washington, DC (April 30, 2024) — The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) commends the Office for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS OCR) for improving regulations implementing the Health Care Rights Law, also known as Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act. Section 1557 prohibits discrimination…
The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) extends its support for the recent ruling by the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This ruling represents a significant step forward in ensuring equal access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including those with developmental disabilities, across…
Washington, DC Washington (April 25, 2024) – The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) commends the Department of Health and Human Services for its bold actions in the final rule for the “Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services” (Access Rule). The comprehensive scope and meaningful solutions in this rule offer a roadmap for better…
As we shift from Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month to National Autism Acceptance Month in April, The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) remains committed to promoting acceptance of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those with autism. Throughout April, we join individuals, families, and communities in celebrating the value, contribution, and strengths…
The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) supports legislative efforts to update Supplemental Security Income (SSI) requirements that limit the amount of savings and ownership a person with disabilities can have without losing critical Medicaid services. The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Restoration Act both improve the…