Picture of the U.S. Department of Education building in Washington, DC

HELP Committee Report Finds OCR Reached a 12-Year Low in Enforceable Relief for Students Facing Discrimination

/in /by Jackie Dilworth

Staff for the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) released a new report yesterday documenting a steep decline in enforceable civil rights outcomes at the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR), including in cases involving students with disabilities.

The report finds that OCR reached 112 resolution agreements in 2025, down from 507 in 2024, a steep drop in one of the main ways OCR can require schools to fix civil rights violations. That’s about 1% of the 11,985 civil rights cases the report says were pending. For disability discrimination cases, the report lists 5,794 pending cases and only 83 resolution agreements in 2025, down from 390 in 2024.

That drop comes after major disruption to OCR’s capacity. In March 2025, nearly half of OCR staff were affected by a reduction in force, a change that reduced the number of investigators available to respond to students and schools and contributed to instability in how complaints were handled.

Bottom line: resolution agreements are one of the main ways OCR can require a school to fix a civil rights violation. Without a resolution agreement, families often don’t get a schoolwide fix, and the same barriers can continue for the family who filed and the students who come after them.

Key takeaways from the report on disability cases

The report shows that some of the most serious disability-related categories had little to no enforceable relief in 2025, including:

  • Restraint and/or seclusion: 172 pending cases, 0 resolution agreements
  • Disability harassment: 595 pending cases, 1 resolution agreement
  • FAPE (free appropriate public education): 1,887 pending cases, 40 resolution agreements

The report also describes civil rights enforcement at a 12-year low and notes that multiple regional civil rights offices have been closed, shrinking the federal capacity families and schools rely on.

Why OCR capacity is the difference between rights and reality

“This report shows federal civil rights enforcement in education, an essential tool provided by Congress to help fight disability discrimination, is being denied to students with disabilities,” said Katy Neas, CEO of The Arc of the United States. “OCR is where families turn when a student is denied accommodations or accessibility, pushed out of learning time, or harassed or disciplined unfairly because of disability. When OCR isn’t delivering solutions schools must follow, students lose learning time, families lose a workable path to resolve what’s happening, and schools are left with uncertainty and weaker oversight. Students with disabilities pay the price now, and it shapes what comes next, from graduation to employment and independence.”

What this means for families of students with disabilities

Families often turn to OCR after they have documented the problem and tried to resolve it through the school and district with no meaningful change. When OCR enforcement is inconsistent, urgent issues can drag on while a student keeps losing access to learning and support.

Families turn to OCR for urgent situations like:

  • A student being denied accommodations or accessibility
  • Repeated removals from class instead of support
  • Disability-based harassment not being addressed
  • Discriminatory discipline that keeps a child out of learning time
  • Restraint and seclusion issues that demand immediate accountability

OCR is one of the few avenues families can pursue without having to hire a lawyer or spend years in court.

What this means for schools and educators

Schools rely on OCR enforcement and guidance. When enforcement is inconsistent or guidance isn’t available, confusion grows and problems linger.

  • Schools lose clear, reliable direction about what compliance looks like.
  • Disputes last longer and are more likely to escalate into conflict, due process, or litigation.
  • Inconsistent enforcement leads to uneven practices across districts.

Why The Arc is weighing in

The Arc exists because families had to fight for the basic right of children with disabilities to be educated. Our advocacy helped lay the groundwork for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and for decades we’ve worked to protect and strengthen it so students can learn alongside nondisabled students with the support they need.

Today, our policy team regularly meets with members of Congress and education officials to protect IDEA and Section 504, and to push for the staffing and oversight that make those rights real in schools.

The Arc is also a plaintiff in Somerville Public Schools et al. v. Trump et al., a federal lawsuit challenging efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, because weakening federal capacity threatens special education oversight and civil rights enforcement that students with disabilities rely on.

Next steps to restore civil rights enforcement in education

The report points to a simple reality: students’ rights depend on a civil rights office that can do its job consistently and transparently. OCR’s work affects students facing discrimination based on disability, race, national origin, and sex, and families need a process that leads to real answers and real fixes.

If OCR is going to protect students and provide meaningful accountability, these steps can’t wait:

  • Fully staff and stabilize OCR so complaints get a real review and timely decisions.
  • Restore transparency by regularly publishing basic information about workload, timelines, and outcomes so families and schools can understand what’s happening.
  • Act quickly when a student is facing ongoing harm or being shut out of education, including cases involving denial of accommodations or accessibility, harassment, discriminatory discipline, and restraint or seclusion.
  • Communicate clearly with families and schools about what to expect after a complaint is filed, including timelines, reasons cases are dismissed, and what steps schools must take when OCR finds a violation.

For reporters: Interview availability

Robyn Linscott, Director of Education and Family Policy at The Arc of the United States, is available for interviews on what the report’s findings mean for students with disabilities and what policymakers are weighing based on input from families and school systems.

Frequently Asked Questions about OCR enforcement and students with disabilities

What is a resolution agreement at the Office for Civil Rights?
A resolution agreement is a formal agreement that requires a school to take specific steps to fix a civil rights problem identified through OCR’s process.

Why do OCR resolution agreements matter for students with disabilities?
They can require changes like providing accommodations, fixing accessibility barriers, changing discipline practices, and addressing harassment so the same harm does not continue.

What types of disability issues do OCR handle in schools?
Common issues include Section 504 accommodations, accessibility barriers, disability harassment, discriminatory discipline, and concerns related to restraint and seclusion.

What should families do if they believe a student’s disability rights are being violated?
Families can document concerns, use school and district complaint processes, and consider filing an OCR complaint when discrimination is alleged.

Red, white, and blue stickers that say "I Voted."

The SAVE America Act Threatens Accessible Voting for People With Disabilities

/in /by Jackie Dilworth

As Congress debates the SAVE America Act, people with disabilities have reason to be alarmed. The bill would require in-person proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections, government-issued photo ID that matches current name and address for in-person voting, and copies of photo ID with mail-in ballots. For voters with disabilities, that means new barriers at every stage of the voting process.

The reality is that too many people with disabilities face real barriers to voting. A Government Accountability Office study found that 60% of polling places had barriers for voters with disabilities, and 65% had voting stations that weren’t set up to allow a private and independent vote. Federal law mandates that voters with disabilities must have a full and equal opportunity to vote, including during registration, at the polling place, and through early or absentee voting.

Mail voting and accessible voting technology aren’t simply conveniences for people with disabilities. They’re civil rights. In the 2020 election, more than half of voters with disabilities cast their ballot by mail. The SAVE America Act would severely restrict mail registration and force online voter registration systems to be overhauled to meet its new requirements. Millions of Americans rely on those options to make their voices heard. Federal guidance makes clear that vote by mail must be accessible. When lawmakers add new in-person paperwork, photo ID requirements, or other hurdles to mail voting and registration, they risk shutting out voters who can’t easily travel, print, copy, scan, or navigate inaccessible systems.

Courts have ruled that systemic barriers preventing voters with disabilities from casting ballots are illegal. The Americans with Disabilities Act covers voter registration, polling places, and absentee voting. The Help America Vote Act requires accessible voting systems so voters with disabilities can cast a ballot with the same privacy and independence as others. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters with disabilities to use an assistor of their choice. The Arc has fought and won challenges against laws that restricted in-person and mail-in voting, and we’ll continue to challenge attempts to suppress the disability vote.

But statistics and legal protections only tell part of the story. Voters with disabilities live these barriers every election.

  • Lydia, who has muscular dystrophy, told us: “I think it really boils down to whether people believe that disabled people or any people from marginalized groups are deserving of the full benefits of democracy. We’re all interconnected. And I think that’s the promise of democracy—we all get to enjoy the same basic human rights and privileges as everyone else.” Lydia prefers to vote in person but needs the option to vote by mail when her specialized mobility equipment isn’t working properly.
  • Danielle, who has autism, dyslexia, and dysgraphia, has difficulty voting because she is sensitive to abrupt changes or alterations to routine. As Danielle’s mother, who assists her with voting, shared: “My daughter just needs a little more help, but she can vote. It’s her constitutional right… She wants to practice her civic duty, and she should be able to vote… People with disabilities are a part of our community and the fabric of our lives. They need to be heard.”
  • Ralph has Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy and was hospitalized due to this condition for 6 months. Vote by mail was the only option available to him because he couldn’t leave the hospital during treatment.
  • Laura has Limb Girdle muscular dystrophy and chronic muscular respiratory failure. It’s important for her to have access to different methods of voting because her ability and energy levels fluctuate daily. It’s also much safer for her to vote by mail since she’s immunocompromised.

People with disabilities are one of the largest voting blocs in the country. One in 6 eligible voters has a disability, and 1 in 3 eligible voters has a disability or lives with someone who does. When voting is accessible, participation rises. When it’s not, people with disabilities are pushed out of decisions that shape their health care, education, housing, transportation, employment, and community living. Their votes aren’t optional, and their participation isn’t secondary.

If a bill makes it harder for people with disabilities to register, vote by mail, or cast a ballot privately and independently, it’s moving this country in the wrong direction and violating federal laws. The Arc will continue to fight in courtrooms, Congress, and communities nationwide until every voter with a disability can cast a ballot that’s accessible, private, and counted.

SAVE America Act FAQ: What Voters With Disabilities Need to Know

What is the SAVE America Act?
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE America) Act is the federal voting bill now being debated in Congress. It would require in-person proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections, government-issued photo ID for in-person voting, and copies of photo ID with mail-in ballots. Some people may still refer to an earlier version of this proposal as the SAVE Act.

How would the SAVE America Act affect voters with disabilities?
It would add new steps to registration, in-person voting, and vote by mail in a system that is already too inaccessible for many voters with disabilities. The bill includes an accessibility provision, but it is limited and does not include a clear enforcement mechanism. Federal law requires equal access to all parts of voting, including absentee voting.

Does the SAVE America Act affect mail-in voting?
Yes. The bill would require copies of photo ID with mail-in ballots, and the current debate around the bill has also included proposals to narrow mail voting further. That matters because voters with disabilities are more likely to rely on voting by mail, and mail voting must be accessible.

Why are election officials and disability advocates concerned about implementation?
The SAVE America Act would take effect immediately, gives the Election Assistance Commission just 10 days to issue guidance, and provides no funding for states to make the required changes. That rushed timeline raises serious concerns about confusion, administrative errors, and whether accessible systems would be implemented well enough to protect voters with disabilities.

Why do voters with disabilities rely on mail voting and accessible voting machines?
Because many polling places still present physical and technological barriers, and accessible voting systems plus mail voting can be the difference between having a private, independent vote and not being able to vote at all.

What laws protect the voting rights of people with disabilities?
Key protections include the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Help America Vote Act, the National Voter Registration Act, the Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act, and the Voting Rights Act.

A man with disabilities stands indoors at a busy event space holding a sign that reads “I’M VOTING BECAUSE… it’s my voice!” The sign has The Arc logo in the top left and the hashtag #REVUP in the bottom right.

Voter 101: Why Voting Matters to People With Disabilities

/in , /by The Arc

What Is Voting?

Voting is how people make choices together. When you vote, you say what you want. We vote for people who want to lead our country, state, and city. These people are called candidates. When they win, they become elected officials.

Elected officials make choices about our lives. They decide how programs work. This includes Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), education, housing, and transportation. When you vote, you help choose who will speak for the disability community.

Visit TheArc.org/Vote for more information about voting, including resources about guardianship and voting, tips for helping someone vote, what to do if your voting rights are denied, and more.

Why Does Voting Matter?

Laws and rules affect people with disabilities every day. Voting helps make sure leaders hear you.

People with disabilities vote less often than people without disabilities. This is called the voting gap. The gap exists because voting can be hard. Polling places may not be accessible. Rules can be confusing. Some people do not get the help they need.

When people with disabilities get clear information and support, more people vote. When more people vote, leaders pay attention. Voting helps close the gap.

Your Right to Vote

People with disabilities have the right to vote. You can vote privately and independently. Laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Help America Vote Act support this right. These laws help make polling places accessible. They allow voting tools and help from a person you trust or a poll worker if needed.

Who Can Vote?

You can vote if you:

  • Are a U.S. citizen
  • Are 18 or older by Election Day
  • Live in the state where you vote
  • Register by your state’s deadline

Some people think people with disabilities cannot vote. That is not true. People with disabilities can and do vote.

Some people may not be able to vote, like non-citizens, some people with guardians, or some people with past convictions. Rules vary by state. If you are not sure, check with your local election office.

How Do You Register to Vote?

Each state has its own rules. You must register by your state’s deadline. You may need your name, address, Social Security number, and/or a state or government identification (ID).

You can check or update your registration on The Arc’s online Election Center. If you move or change your name, make sure to update your registration.

You can ask for help. A friend, family member, or support worker can help you register.

Remember: Voting is powerful. When you vote, you help shape your future and your community.

Three people with and without disabilities stand outdoors in front of the US Capitol, smiling and holding protest signs. The signs read "We Vote!," "Equity," "Disability Rights Are Human Rights," and "Stop Discrimination Now."

2026 Disability Advocacy: What We’re Watching & How to Help

/in , /by The Arc

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

A diverse group of young adults with disabilities stand together in a circle with their heads close, smiling. The view point is looking up at them from inside the circle.

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: 2026 Theme & Ways to Act

/in /by The Arc

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is observed every March to recognize people with developmental disabilities, celebrate inclusion, and spotlight the barriers that still block full participation in community life. The month traces back to a 1987 presidential proclamation calling the nation to increase awareness of the needs and potential of Americans with developmental disabilities.

Key Takeaways

  • Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month happens every March.
  • The 2026 theme is “We’re Here: Then, Now, Always.”
  • You can take action by donating, volunteering, and sharing accurate information and stories (with consent).

What Is a Developmental Disability?

A developmental disability is a lifelong condition that can affect learning, language, mobility, or independent living. Developmental disabilities occur in every community and across all backgrounds.

The Big Picture

Here’s what drives us at The Arc: the fundamental belief that everyone deserves to write their own life story. That means real access to education, meaningful employment, quality health care, and genuine community connections. Too many barriers still stand in the way of these basic rights. This month, we’re making more space for self-advocates and families to share what needs to change, and what real inclusion looks like.

History

The roots of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month trace back to 1987, when President Ronald Reagan proclaimed March 1987 as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

2026 Theme: “We’re Here: Then, Now, Always”

This year’s national theme from the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) is “We’re Here: Then, Now, Always.” It connects past, present, and future, recognizing progress, naming what’s still at risk, and reinforcing that community living and inclusion must be protected and funded.

What We’re Doing

Change happens when people come together, and that’s what The Arc’s nationwide network does every day. This month, we’re sharing stories from people with developmental disabilities and their families that reflect real life: goals, barriers, pride, and the supports that make inclusion possible.

There’s Marcus, whose job search shows how talented, dedicated workers face discrimination. Lawrence, who’s showing the world what’s possible for athletes with disabilities. Ashley, who’s revolutionizing how we think about diversity and inclusion. Steve, who shows us that people with disabilities thrive when they can live independently in their communities, not institutions. Carlos, who persevered through immigration, bullying, and discrimination to graduate college and build his accounting career. And Mitch, whose voice on our board helps shape how we support people with disabilities.

Three Ways to Take Action

“Segregation and discrimination still cast an ugly shadow over the lives of millions of people with disabilities. This month, we must elevate the leadership and priorities calling for true inclusion—in our schools, workplaces, and communities. When we follow self-advocates’ lead and remove unfair barriers, communities get stronger for everyone.” – Katy Neas, CEO of The Arc

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month?
It’s observed every March to recognize people with developmental disabilities, celebrate inclusion, and highlight barriers that still exist.

When is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month?
Every March.

What is the 2026 DDAM theme?
“We’re Here: Then, Now, Always.”

What is a developmental disability?
A lifelong condition that can affect learning, language, mobility, or independent living.

How can I support DD Awareness Month?
Learn, share accurate resources, support disability-led leadership, volunteer locally, and donate if you’re able.

Two young people sit side by side at an outdoor picnic table, smiling and looking at a smartphone together. One person sits in a wheelchair, and both wear jackets in a park setting

Medicaid Work Reporting: What Does It Mean for You?

/in , /by The Arc

Congress passed a new law that made cuts to Medicaid, called Public Law 119-21. This law says that some adults with low income who get health coverage through Medicaid will need to report their work or community activities to the state in the future

Public Law 119-21 creates a Medicaid community engagement requirement (often called a Medicaid work requirement). A community engagement requirement makes reporting work, school, or volunteering a condition of staying enrolled in Medicaid for some adults. CMS gives states guidance on how to implement Medicaid community engagement requirements.

This law does not affect you if: you get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid and/or you receive Medicaid home and community-based services.

Nothing is changing right now. The federal law sets the requirement to start by January 1, 2027, unless a state chooses to start sooner. Changes may happen in your state in the next few years.

In this blog, we explain:

  • Who may need to report work or activities.
  • Who does not need to report.
  • What you can do now to protect your Medicaid.

Remember: Medicaid may have a different name in your state.

Who may have to report work or activities for Medicaid?

The new rules will affect adults who:

  • Are 19–64 years old
  • Get Medicaid through Medicaid expansion

Lawmakers may decide certain groups of people are exempt. Exempt adults do not need to report. You can find out more about who is exempt below.

What is Medicaid expansion?

Some states give Medicaid to adults with low income, even if they don’t have children. This is called Medicaid expansion. Check if your state has Medicaid expansion.

What counts as work or community engagement activities?

You may need to report things like:

  • Working at a job (even part-time)
  • Working for yourself
  • Volunteering or helping in the community
  • Going to school or job training

Federal law defines ‘community engagement’ as employment, a work program, community service, or education/training. Many states will use an 80-hours-per-month standard to measure community engagement.

How reporting works:

Your state Medicaid agency runs the reporting process, and your state Medicaid agency sends the notices. Each state will decide:

  • How often you must report
  • How you report (online, by phone, or in person).

Who should NOT need to report work or activities?

Lawmakers have decided that many people with disabilities and caregivers should not need to follow these rules. They are exempt or free from the rules.

People who are exempt include:

  • People who get Medicaid because of a disability, like many people on Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
  • People who have serious health needs or need a lot of help every day. These people are sometimes called “medically frail.”
  • People who get both Medicare and Medicaid.
  • Some family caregivers who provide help to a person with a disability or serious health problem.

Important: Even if you should not need to report, mistakes can happen. Always read your mail from Medicaid. Get help if you get a letter about reporting work or community activities. In past work-reporting programs, people lost Medicaid coverage because paperwork didn’t go through, even when they were eligible or should have been exempt.

What you can do now:

  • Keep copies of any letters that show you get Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Insurance, a Medicaid waiver, or other disability benefits.
  • Keep letters or reports from doctors that explain your disability or the help you need.
  • If you get a notice saying you must report work and you have a disability, contact your local chapter of The Arc or legal aid right away.

Family Caregiver Information

You may not have to report work if you are a family caregiver and you:

  • Give care to a person with a disability or serious health need.
  • Help with things like dressing, eating, bathing, taking medicine, behavior support, getting around, or communicating.

What you can do now:

  • Write down who you care for and how you help.
    • Example: “I help my adult son with dressing, meals, and seizures every day.”
  • Keep papers that show:
    • You are a paid caregiver through Medicaid.
    • A doctor says the person needs your help.
  • If you get a letter about work reporting, ask if you qualify for a caregiver exemption.

What Everyone Can Do Now

Even before these rules start, you can:

  • Update your contact information.
    • Make sure Medicaid has your current address, phone number, and email.
  • Open and read all mail from Medicaid or your health plan.
    • Do not ignore letters, even if they are hard to understand.
    • Ask a trusted person to help you read letters.
  • Get help right away if you get a letter asking about work or activities.
    • Contact your local chapter of The Arc, your Protection & Advocacy (P&A) agency, or legal aid.
    • Say: “I have a disability / I am a caregiver. I think I may not have to follow these new rules. Can you help me?”

Where to Get Help

Quick Answers (Medicaid Work Reporting)

Q: What is Medicaid work reporting?
A: Medicaid work reporting is the process a state uses to document “community engagement” activities for some adults.

Q: Does Medicaid work reporting affect SSI Medicaid?
A: No. People who receive SSI and Medicaid are not the target group in this post’s summary.

Q: When could this start?
A: The law sets an effective date by January 1, 2027, unless a state starts sooner.

Q: Who is most likely to be asked to report?
A: Adults ages 19–64 who receive Medicaid through Medicaid expansion (and certain similar coverage pathways).

Q: What’s the biggest risk for people who should be exempt?
A: Missing paperwork or unclear notices can still trigger coverage problems.

Q: Who can help if I get a letter?
A: Your local chapter of The Arc, your state P&A agency, or legal aid.

Written by Kim Musheno, Director of Medicaid Policy at The Arc of the United States.

A white woman on a city street holding a cardboard protest sign that says "Education for All"

Why Public Education Matters for Students With Disabilities and for Us All

/in /by The Arc

Public education is one of our country’s most important promises: a commitment that every child, no matter their abilities or background, deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and participate fully. For the 95% of students with disabilities who attend public schools, that promise is both vital and vulnerable.

Today, that promise is under strain. Funding shortfalls, teacher shortages, and policies that divert resources away from public schools threaten the foundation of inclusive education. For families of students with disabilities, those challenges are deeply personal.

Stories of families like Amanda’s, Christina’s, Kristen’s, and Susannah’s remind us why public schools and special education services must be protected and strengthened, not dismantled or defunded.

Reaching Her Potential: Kristen’s Journey to Graduation

A person with long curly hair and glasses stands smiling in front of a framed painting of a colorful heart. They wear a red sweater, black pants, and a red headband against a neutral wall.

As a former special education student, Kristen knows firsthand how a strong public education can shape a person’s future. Kristen credits her Individualized Education Program (IEP) team and family for helping her meet her goals and graduate high school, something that might not have been possible without that support.

Now an adult, Kristen advocates for reinvesting in public education so that every student, with or without disabilities, has the same opportunity to succeed.

“This is not the time to take money from public schools but rather to put more money into public schools and services so all students have the opportunity to achieve their goals and reach their full potential, like I was given.”

Building Confidence and Hope: Amanda’s Family Finds Support

When Amanda’s son was diagnosed with ADHD, her family worried about how he would manage in school. But public education gave them more than academic success; it gave them hope.

“Thanks to dedicated special education teachers and an individualized support plan, [my son] received the guidance and attention he needed. The school helped him build confidence, develop important skills, and feel supported every step of the way. These services didn’t just help him do better in class; they gave our whole family hope and relief.”

The Only Door That Opens: Susannah’s Fight for Inclusion

A young child sits on a yellow scooter board in a gym, gripping a green hula hoop. The child smiles with an open mouth. A red exercise ball rests on the floor behind them.

For Susannah, the promise of public education isn’t theoretical—it’s the only thing standing between her child and exclusion. Her 12-year-old son has a rare genetic disorder, Turnpenny-Fry syndrome, and requires significant support to learn safely and effectively.

Private schools turned him away, even with tuition assistance through a voucher. Public school was the only place willing and equipped to meet his needs, with specialized staff, accommodations, and a commitment to serve every child.

“More vouchers for private schools would directly harm my child,” Susannah said. “Federal funding is vital to ensure his constitutional right and access to a free, appropriate education.”

Starting Early: Christina’s Story of Hope and Early Intervention

For Christina’s son, the public education system’s support began before preschool. Through the North Carolina Infant-Toddler Program, he receives critical early intervention services, made possible through federal law under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

“It was clear early on that [my son] had global delays. He wasn’t making eye contact and was having a hard time lifting his head during tummy time. After a medically complex diagnosis, it was important to get interventions and therapies in place. By 6 months old, [my son] already had an individualized family service plan put in place under IDEA. With these plans, a team is able to assist in ensuring that he gets the interventions he needs through physical therapy, occupational therapy, vision therapy and speech. This plan will help him has he enters the school system at the age of 3 and beyond.”

Early intervention can change the course of a child’s life. These programs not only prepare children for school but help families understand how to support their development from the very beginning.

Protecting a Promise and Strengthening a System We All Depend On

These stories remind us that public education and special education are not optional extras. They are essential civil rights and the foundation of an inclusive society.

The current public school system isn’t perfect. It needs more funding, more staff, and more understanding. The answer isn’t to pull resources away or funnel them into systems that exclude the very students who need support most.

We must strengthen public schools by investing in teachers, therapists, and aides; expanding early intervention; and honoring our collective promise that every child deserves a chance to learn.

Public education is not just a service. It’s a commitment to fairness and inclusion. It’s how we, as a society, say to every child: You belong here, you matter, and we will help you succeed.

Take Action Today: Tell Congress to Protect this Promise for All Students.

Bipartisan Resolution Recognizes The Arc’s 75 Years of Leadership in Disability Rights

/in /by Jackie Dilworth

Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-6), Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring the 75th anniversary of The Arc of the United States, one of the nation’s most influential organizations advocating for the civil and human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Founded in 1950 by parents determined to keep their children out of institutions and fought instead for their children’s place in family and community life, The Arc has grown into a network of nearly 600 state and local chapters across 47 states. For three-quarters of a century, it has shaped federal policy, expanded opportunity, and strengthened a core American principle: that every individual deserves the chance to live a full, self-directed life.

From its pivotal role in PARC v. Pennsylvania, which helped lay the foundation for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), to its leadership in securing the Americans with Disabilities Act, expanding Medicaid home- and community-based services, and advancing essential civil rights protections, The Arc’s history reflects and helped define the evolution of our nation’s commitment to equality, independence, and inclusion.

“For 75 years, The Arc has been a steady compass for this nation—challenging us to rise to our ideals and expanding the circle of belonging,” said Fitzpatrick. “Their leadership has changed laws, expectations, and lives. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, their partnership strengthens our mission every single day. This resolution is not merely recognition—it is a call to action and a reaffirmation of our shared responsibility to continue working to ensure that dignity, independence, and equal opportunity are not aspirations, but guarantees for every single American.”

“For 75 years, The Arc has been an unrelenting force for the rights, dignity, and respect of Americans with disabilities. It is because of their work that we have seen so much progress, including the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and other foundational protections we have today. I’m proud to recognize The Arc for their 75 years of fighting for accessibility and equality for individuals with disabilities and will continue to be a partner in that work,” said Dingell.

Katy Neas, CEO of The Arc of the United States, shared: “Seventy-five years ago, a group of parents refused to accept that their children with disabilities should be sent to live all their days in institutions. They built The Arc so their children could grow up at home with their families, just like everyone else. I think of those families every time I see a student learning with non-disabled classmates, an employee with a disability earning a paycheck, or a family getting support that keeps them stable and together. Because The Arc fought for it, people live at home and in the community instead of in institutions. Students with disabilities have the right to a public education rather than being shut out or separated. Medicaid and SSI help people shape meaningful lives with the support they need. And the ADA made civil rights real in daily life, from curb cuts to captions that many of us use. Disability is in every family, every community, every political party. In a year when disabled Americans are looking for steady leadership on their rights and services, I’m grateful to Representative Brian Fitzpatrick for recognizing this legacy and affirming that inclusion is a shared value. We will keep working with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, as we always have, honoring the millions who came before us and pushing disability rights forward for millions more.”

Read the full resolution here.

Background

The Arc of the United States was founded in 1950 by parents who refused to accept that their children with intellectual disabilities should be separated from family and community. Their advocacy paved the way for some of the most consequential civil rights and education advances in modern American history, including:

  • PARC v. Pennsylvania (1971): Established the right to free public education for students with intellectual disabilities, setting the stage for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
  • The Americans with Disabilities Act (1990): A landmark civil rights law prohibiting discrimination and guaranteeing equal access in employment, transportation, and public life.
  • Expansion of Medicaid and home- and community-based services (HCBS): Provided millions of individuals with disabilities the ability to live and participate in their communities rather than institutions.

Today, Arc continues to advocate for independence, economic opportunity, and full inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across their lifespan.

Fruit lined up on shelves at a grocery store

What You Need to Know About SNAP and WIC During the Government Shutdown

/in /by Jackie Dilworth

Updated Nov. 13, 2025, 5:44 p.m. ET

The government shutdown ended on November 12. The USDA and state governments will now work to distribute November SNAP benefits. Expect different states to issue SNAP benefits at different times this month.

During the federal government shutdown, lawmakers did not taken action to fund critical food assistance programs. As a result, many people who rely on SNAP and WIC have had their benefits delayed starting November 1, 2025.

SNAP is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as food stamps. It provides food benefits to low-income families to supplement their grocery budget so they can afford the nutritious food essential to health and well-being. WIC is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. It’s a short-term program that safeguards the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 by providing food, nutrition education, and healthcare referrals.

For families already stretched thin, this lapse in benefits meant impossible choices between food, rent, medicine, utilities, and more. People with disabilities already face higher rates of poverty and food insecurity, putting them more at risk.

Food is not optional. Every person deserves food security, not fear.

What is The Arc doing to protect SNAP and WIC benefits? The Arc called on state and federal policymakers to protect people with disabilities and low-income families from losing access to food. Here’s what’s happening, what you can do, and what policymakers must do now.

How is the Government Shutdown Impacting SNAP and WIC Benefits in November?

  • Will I get SNAP benefits in November? We do not yet know when you will receive your full SNAP benefits for November. The amount and timing of your November SNAP benefits will depend on your state, even though the shutdown ended on November 12.
    • We understand that this uncertainty is incredibly stressful. Food resources are below if you need them.
    • Federal funding for your full monthly SNAP benefits was delayed because of the government shutdown. November SNAP benefit amounts will be different from state to state because some states used emergency funds to help cover benefits.
  • Isn’t there a lawsuit about restoring federal SNAP funding? What does it mean for SNAP beneficiaries? Yes, on October 31st, two federal courts ruled that the Administration must use contingency funds to provide at least partial SNAP benefits for November. What happens next will depend on the actions of the Administration and your state government. Even if the Administration releases the funds to states immediately, it will take at least a couple days for states to send out the partial benefit payments.
  • Will WIC benefits still be available in November? Some states may run out of WIC funding in early November. How long benefits last will depend on your state’s remaining funds.
  • What do beneficiaries need to know about new SNAP work requirements? Millions of people applying for or renewing SNAP will face new work requirements, known as “time limits,” starting in November.
  • Can food banks replace lost SNAP benefits? Food banks and local charities are already stretched thin and cannot replace SNAP, especially as demand for food assistance increases around the holidays. For every meal a food bank provides, SNAP provides nine.

What Can Policymakers Do to Protect SNAP and WIC During the Shutdown?

  • What actions should the Administration take right now?
    • Use available resources to pay SNAP and WIC benefits in November. If full benefits cannot be funded, issue partial benefits.
    • Immediately release SNAP’s contingency funds (about $6 billion) to help states pay benefits.
    • Use any available legal authority to provide SNAP and WIC funding.
    • Give states clear guidance to continue processing applications and the technical assistance they need to send out benefits as soon as funding is available.
  • What steps should Congress take to prevent food benefit cuts?
    • Fully fund SNAP benefits and reverse harmful cuts to SNAP made by the reconciliation bill.
    • Roll back expanded work requirements passed in the reconciliation bill that threaten people with disabilities, older adults, and parents.
    • Restore funding for other programs that help feed communities, including the Emergency Food Assistance Program, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program, and the Local Food for Schools Program.
  • What can states do to help SNAP and WIC beneficiaries?
    • Use state emergency funds to cover temporary SNAP or WIC gaps.
      • Example: New Mexico will distribute $30 million in state-funded food benefits onto current SNAP beneficiaries’ EBT cards.
      • Example: Virginia established a new program called the Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) initiative, which will distribute up to $150 million in state funds to replace SNAP benefits through November. Starting on November 3rd, VENA will send Virginians weekly payments covering 25% of their monthly SNAP benefit. This means that if a family usually receives $200 a month in SNAP benefits, the VENA system will provide $50 weekly.
    • Send clear, accessible notices to all beneficiaries about the status of their benefits, and what to expect going forward.
    • Continue processing applications and protect residents from utility shutoffs and evictions.

What Should SNAP and WIC Recipients Do As the Government Shutdown Continues?

  • Are my October SNAP benefits safe? Yes, October SNAP benefits have been funded and loaded to EBT cards. You can keep using remaining benefits on your card as usual.
  • What will happen to my November SNAP benefits? As the shutdown continues, new benefits will come later than usual. Once the government reopens, missed payments will be reimbursed.
    • You will not lose benefits permanently due to the shutdown. A delay is not the same as being cut off. Keep your contact information up to date so you receive notices.
  • Can I apply or renew SNAP or WIC during the shutdown? If you’re applying, you should submit your application as soon as possible. Even if processing is delayed, applying now ensures your case moves forward quickly when the shutdown ends.
    • If you applied for or were approved for SNAP benefits in October, you might experience delays receiving retroactive benefits for October 2025. This will vary depending on the state you live in.
  • How can people with disabilities qualify for exemptions from SNAP work rules? Keep an eye out for a notice from your state’s SNAP office about new work requirements. If you have a disability, you may qualify for an exemption from the work requirement. Contact your SNAP caseworker or state office with any questions.
  • What can I do to make sure I receive my delayed SNAP or WIC benefits as soon as possible? Visit your local SNAP office website and sign up for updates. Make sure your state’s SNAP program has your correct mailing address, phone number, and email. You can find your state’s SNAP office here: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory

Where Can I Find Food Assistance or Local Resources Near Me?

  • FindHelp: Locate food banks, housing, financial assistance, and more.
  • FoodFinder: Find food pantries near you.
  • USDA National Hunger Hotline: Call 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE (7 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET) or text FOOD to 914-342-7744.
  • FullCart: Sign up for free food delivered to your home (please note that there’s a waitlist for this service).
  • 211: Call 211 or visit 211.org for local help with food, housing, utilities, and more.

Why Do SNAP and WIC Delays Matter for People with Disabilities and Families?

SNAP feeds about 42 million people (one in eight Americans), including 16 million children, 8 million older adults, and more than 4 million people with disabilities. WIC supports nearly 7 million pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and young children. Even short disruptions can harm child nutrition and development.

November is always a critical month for families preparing for colder weather and the holidays. Losing food assistance now could push millions deeper into poverty.

Food is not optional. It is dignity, stability, and survival.

Take Action: Tell Congress to Fund SNAP Now

Millions of people, including millions with disabilities, have lost access to food assistance during this shutdown. Policymakers have the power to fix this, but they need to hear from you. Your voice matters. Urge your elected officials to take all possible measures to fund SNAP and prevent hunger for people with disabilities and low-income families.

Send your message now

Quick Answers About SNAP and WIC During the Government Shutdown

  • Are SNAP benefits delayed? Yes, starting November 1. Depending on your state, emergency state-funded benefit payments or other food assistance may be available.
  • Are WIC benefits safe? Some states may run out of funding in early November.
  • Will benefits be reimbursed later? Yes, once the shutdown ends.
  • Who is most affected? Low-income families, people with disabilities, and older adults.
  • What should I do? Apply or renew now, stay informed through your state SNAP office, and seek local food resources if needed.

Written by: Darcy Milburn, Director of Social Security & Healthcare Policy at The Arc of the United States

A picture of the top of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, DC with trees in front

Federal Government Shutdown: What People With Disabilities Should Know

/in /by Jackie Dilworth

Updated Oct. 28, 2025, 2:01 p.m. ET

At 12:01 a.m. Eastern on October 1, 2025, the federal government shut down because Congress did not approve funding for Fiscal Year 2026. Many federal agencies and programs that rely on annual funding are paused. Many people with disabilities and their families want to know how this affects benefits and services.

This federal government shutdown, in many ways, is unpredictable. We do not know how long it will last or how agencies will respond.

Bottom line today:

  • Social Security payments continue.
  • Medicaid and Medicare coverage stay in place. Some casework may slow.
  • SNAP and WIC benefits for October were funded. If the shutdown continues, new benefits may come later than usual.

Here is what we know:

  • Do Social Security payments continue during a federal shutdown? Yes, Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits will still be paid. Some services, like appeals or benefit verification letters, may take longer. Local offices may have reduced services.
  • Is Medicaid or Medicare affected by a government shutdown? Medicaid and Medicare coverage stays in place. Core operations at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are expected to continue. You should still be able to see your doctor and fill prescriptions. Some non-urgent casework or updates may take longer if the shutdown continues.
  • Will SNAP and WIC benefits be paid?
    • SNAP: October benefits were issued. If the shutdown continues, some people may not receive their November benefits on time. Once the government reopens, missed payments will be reimbursed.
    • WIC: Some states may run out of funding for WIC in early November. How long benefits last will depend on your state’s remaining funds.
  • Are school meals affected? School meals ran on carryover funds for September and October. If the shutdown lasts longer, reimbursements to schools may be delayed.
  • Is HealthCare.gov open? Yes, HealthCare.gov (the ACA Marketplace) continues to operate with eligibility and enrollment. Open enrollment runs Nov. 1–Jan. 15. Outreach, education, and engagement activities may slow or pause.
  • Which HHS services slow down during a shutdown? Some Department of Health and Human Services agencies are running with fewer staff. Guidance, oversight, research, and some enforcement may be slower. Head Start is already strained in some communities. Several programs are operating without federal funds, and many more could face a funding cliff by November 1 without action.
  • What is happening in education funding and services? Funding continues for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Title I for now. Districts that rely on current-year funds may see delays in payments until Congress passes new funding. Vocational Rehabilitation programs are operating, but some services or hiring may slow.
  • Are disability civil rights still enforced during a shutdown? Yes, your rights remain in place. Some investigations or reviews may be delayed by reduced staffing. This is especially relevant at the Department of Education, where the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services has faced severe staffing reductions during the lapse.

What you can do today:

  • Check your benefits portal for status updates: mySocialSecurity, your state’s SNAP/WIC site, or HealthCare.gov.
  • Keep records of any delays or problems (dates, who you spoke with, notices you received).
  • Ask about timing if you rely on SNAP or WIC in November. Your state may post specific dates for when funds will load.
  • Bring ID and recent mail to appointments, in case offices ask for extra proof while systems are backlogged.

Why this matters:

People with disabilities rely on programs like Social Security, SSI, Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP, WIC, school meals, housing, special education, and vocational rehabilitation for daily needs, health, and independence. A shutdown creates delays and confusion for families trying to keep benefits and services on track. If the lapse continues, more programs that depend on yearly funding may be disrupted.

We will keep tracking official updates and will share guidance as conditions change.

Written by: Jackie Dilworth, Communications Director
Reviewed by: Katy Neas, CEO, and Julie Ward, Senior Executive Officer of Public Policy