NACDD Commends the Department of Health and Human Services for Improvements to HCBS Services Finalized in the “Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services” (Access Rule)

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…

Details

NACDD Releases Direct Care Workforce Survey Results

The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) acknowledges the multifaceted challenge surrounding the recruitment, retention, and activation of direct support professionals (DSPs) and Direct Care Workers (DCWs) across the expanse of the United States and its territories. Over the years, the inadequacy of a robust DSP/DCW workforce has been a persistent concern; however,…

Details

HHS Leadership Marks One-Year Anniversary of President Biden’s Care Executive Order

Originally published as a news release on HHS.gov Washington, D.C. – Senior leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the following statements today marking the one-year anniversary of President Biden’s Executive Order on Increasing Access to High-Quality Care and Supporting Caregivers: Statement from Secretary Xavier Becerra “No one will go…

Details

Building Welcoming and Supportive Communities by Ensuring Communication Access for All

By Erin Prangley, Director of Public Policy, NACDD   As director of public policy for the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), I am acutely aware of the relationship between state and federal policy and day-to-day community living. In fact, when legislation is drafted and implemented with people with disabilities in mind, access…

Details

The Power of Support: My Journey with Autism

By Nicholas Mastrella, NACDD Spring 2024 Policy Intern   Hi, I’m Nick Mastrella. As a Policy Intern at NACDD during my last semester of my undergraduate education, I embarked on a journey that has been incredibly special and truly life changing. This internship experience is not just my first step into the world of politics;…

Details

The Need for Federal Policy Movement for Individuals with I/DD

By Nicole LeBlanc, Chairperson for the 2024 Capitol Hill Developmental Disabilities Resource Fair    Hello Everyone , My name is Nicole LeBlanc. I’m on the autism spectrum and a survivor of Low Expectation Syndrome. I’ve worked in the disability field for over 16 years.   This year, the theme of Developmental Disability Awareness Month (DDAM)…

Details