Important decisions about programs for people with disabilities are happening right now. Congress is closely divided, so every action and message can make a difference. Here’s what we’re watching this spring and how you can help.

Federal Funding for Disability Programs

Every year, Congress decides how much money federal programs get.

Our policy team watches what Congress and the President want to spend money on. This includes:

• Developmental Disability Act programs
• Special education
• Housing
• Other important services

We want to make sure that the programs that people with disabilities and their families rely on stay strong.

Key Bills to Watch

Some bills in Congress could make a big difference for people with disabilities:

• SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act: This bill would update the rules for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and end marriage penalties for people who get SSI. These rules haven’t changed in almost 40 years.
• Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition: This bill would improve federal data on DSPs, the people who help individuals with disabilities at home and in the community. Better data could help solve workforce shortages.
• Money Follows the Person: This program helps people move from institutions into community homes. It must be renewed to continue. We want it to keep helping people live in their communities.
• Keeping All Students Safe Act (KASSA): This bill would ban seclusion and dangerous restraints in schools. It now has support from both parties in the House, which is an important step forward.

Education: A Critical Issue in 2026

Education policy is a major focus this year.

• Lawmakers are talking about moving the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) out of the Department of Education. This could weaken how the government enforces the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). We are working with officials to keep strong oversight.
• A new federal voucher program lets states choose to participate. Students who use vouchers may lose IDEA protections. Families need clear information before making decisions.

State-Level Changes to Medicaid and SNAP

Federal changes to Medicaid and SNAP passed last year. Now, each state is deciding how to put them into action. The Arc is working with our chapters to:

• Track what happens in each state
• Share state-specific information
• Support local advocacy
• Local decisions can affect communities quickly, so getting involved at the state level is important.

Ways to Get Involved in 2026

Start advocating early and often this year. Acting early is especially important because many decisions will happen by July due to midterm elections.

Here are a few ways you can help:

• Use our Action Center to advocate for federal issues.
• Connect with your state or local chapter of The Arc to address Medicaid and SNAP changes.
• Contact your members of Congress or state lawmakers in person or online. Use this toolkit to make it easier.
• Vote! One of the biggest ways to advocate is by voting for leaders who will make the decisions you want them to make about schools, jobs, health care, and daily life. Make sure you register and are ready to vote.

Every action matters. Together, we can protect rights, services, and opportunities and make sure the disability community is strengthened in 2026.

Written by: Jenny Alexander, Director, National Initiatives