RespectAbility is gearing up for a critical year in state legislative policy. With several key states carrying stalled bills over from 2023 into 2024, the first few months will bring significant opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
States poised to see some action include California, New York, and Pennsylvania. Though these three populous states encompass unique demographic and economic profiles, each state legislature has the potential to enact significant changes. RespectAbility is ready to assist disability organizations in these and other states to advance legislation that promotes greater opportunities for disabled people and to fight any initiatives that roll back rights for which we’ve fought hard.
- Improving education opportunities: Legislators may focus on ensuring equal access to education and providing additional resources for students with disabilities. California’s SB 483, which bans the practice of prone restraint in schools, failed to pass in 2023, but is eligible for action in the new year.
- Promoting employment opportunities: Policymakers are expected to consider bills that eliminate barriers to employment and subminimum wages, provide job training and placement services, and incentivize businesses to hire individuals with disabilities. Last month in Pennsylvania, Representative Dan Miller introduced HB 1834, which would create an oversight commission to more effectively implement competitive integrated employment in the state.
- Strengthening community living supports: In 2023, both New York and California worked on bills increasing funding for home and community-based services, expanding access to affordable housing, and supporting independent living initiatives. Notably New York’s A6575 pushed to create new programs for people with developmental disabilities. In California, AB 1568 requires independent living programs to include “functional skills” training components, including money management, cooking, and use of medical services.
- Protecting the rights of voters with disabilities: Disability Rights Pennsylvania and other organizations have called attention to gaps in accessibility at polling places and have filed an amicus brief to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to push to allow vote by mail as a necessary accommodation to avoid disenfranchisement.
To learn if your state’s legislature will be returning to session in 2024, check out the 2024 Legislative Session Dates.
