which is leading to confusion in the autism community.

The Arc strongly encourages continued broad research into the complex genetic and environmental factors relating to this condition to better understand and serve the diverse needs of people with autism.

Rhetoric and unsupported opinions have no place in public health.

The scientific community has definitively moved past the disproven theory that vaccines cause autism. The Arc is concerned about the misinformation put forth by the federal government and its agencies,

rights advocate Alex Green, The Arc helped lead the effort to create the Special Commission on the History of State Institutions.

This new law brings to life a key commission recommendation. We must know the history of state institutions, however painful, so that we never repeat it.

and House Ways and Means Chairman Aaron Michlewitz for including this vital language.

The Arc is especially grateful to Senator Michael Barrett and Representative Sean Garballey for championing this language for many years. With their strong leadership, and with disability and human

Opening up the records to families and historians will shine a light of transparency on this dark chapter of our history. Thank you to Senate President Karen Spilka, Senate Ways and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues, House Speaker Ronald Mariano,

We are deeply grateful for the many advocates who shared their own stories in support of this bill.

Interested in voicing your support? Email [email protected]

Thank you to Senator Jo Comerford (pictured) and Representative Susannah Whipps for sponsoring this legislation and to Committee Chairs Senator Jason Lewis and Representative Kenneth Gordon for holding this hearing.

This legislation would address short-term solutions and create long-term systemic change to improve this process for all by focusing on more time to plan, communication, transparency, and creating a Commission to dive in and make specific improvements.

Navigating and entering the adult system without confirmed services is stressful for all families, and as Nora shared, even more so for “a family working multiple jobs, facing language barriers, or raising a child with profound and complex needs. We must do better.”

Challenges with the Turning 22 processes for those leaving special education are some of the most frequent issues that we hear at The Arc. On their 22nd birthday, individuals with IDD and autism lose their special education entitlement and often fall off a devastating cliff.

By speaking up today, you can help ensure that the FY27 budget reflects our shared values of dignity, access, and stability for this community. Please complete and share this urgent action alert!

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