The legislation would urge the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to consider including a code for direct support professionals (DSPs) in its revision of the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) manual. The omission of a DSP SOC code leads to a lack of data on the DSP workforce, the devaluation of the profession, and likely lower reimbursement rates as a result.

The Arc submitted testimony to the Senate Finance Committee on their June 18, 2024, hearing on “Work and Social Security Disability Benefits: Addressing Challenges and Creating Opportunities.”

The Arc expressed its strong support for the Autism CARES Act, which is critical legislation for research and training programs. The proposed bill reauthorizes the programs for another five years. The Arc encouraged the bill to pass quickly to ensure the current bill does not expire.

The Arc submitted comments to a proposed rule by the FDA to ban electrical stimulation devices for aggressive or self-injurious behavior. These devices are used by only one institution in Massachusetts, and The Arc has been fighting for decades to protect its residents from this abuse.

The Arc expressed its support for several bills being reviewed by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health at a hearing on expanding access to Medicaid. The legislation reviewed included making Money Follows the Person permanent, portability of Medicaid benefits for dependents of military families, and modifications to the Medicaid buy-in program for older working adults.