The Arc of Nebraska

I approached the StarTran Advisory Board almost two years ago with a proposal to provide free bussing on general election days for the City of Lincoln – Lincoln, Nebraska, and I’m thrilled that they will be offering this program *and* free BikeLNK rides for all November general election days moving forward! 🗳 🚍 🚲 Thank you to StarTran staff and board members for making this possible! Learn more about how to get a free ride on November 5th here! ➡ https://lnkd.in/gGycAtWr

The nationwide teacher shortage is well documented. But another category of school workers — special education assistants — is also in alarmingly short supply.

“Finding child care should not be this hard.” Tonya’s struggle to find after-school care for her daughter with Down syndrome is a common occurrence. Families of children with disabilities are three times more likely to experience job disruptions because of problems with child care. This crisis is hurting families and our economy. We have an easy way for you to tell Congress that child care must be a top priority: https://bit.ly/3TT8BpV #WeActWednesday #CareCantWait #DownSyndromeAwareness #DownSyndromeAwarenessMonth

Your vote matters! Ensure your voice is heard in this election. Visit our Disability Voting Rights Center to learn about your rights, important deadlines, and how to make your vote count. #DisabilityRights #GetOutTheVote https://lnkd.in/gqTfE25y

“Voting is so important to me because it was important to my grandfather. My grandfather was a Hispanic migrant worker who left school after third grade to earn money for his family. His ability to vote had been impacted by the Jim Crow laws in Texas. So, when he was able to vote, it was incredibly important to him, and he would dress in his best church clothes for the occasion. One of the proudest moments between me and my grandfather was in 1989, when I showed him my voter registration card. In 2008, I was inspired to become an election judge in Texas because I wanted to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to vote as a way to honor my grandfather's legacy. For the past 15 years, I have worked to learn about current laws in Texas and help everyone who walks into our polling place to vote if they are able.” —Veronica, TX #TheArcVotes #Election2024 #DisabilityVote

Exciting news! Our CEO, Katy Neas, recently spoke with Kendra E. Davenport, MPL, President and CEO of Easterseals, for a podcast episode discussing The Arc's mission and the future of disability advocacy. 🎙️Katy dives into the future of Medicaid, shedding light on potential changes and their implications, and shares her journey through advocacy, emphasizing the value of networking and powerful collaborations with organizations like Easterseals. Listen to the full episode: https://lnkd.in/eZQ7Yish

Policy update! The ENABLE Act, led by Senator Schmitt (R-MO) and Senator Casey (D-PA), has passed the Senate, extending crucial ABLE account protections beyond 2025. The ENABLE Act would permanently extend the IRS tax code provisions relating to ABLE programs. ABLE accounts are tax-free savings accounts that enable people with disabilities and their families to save money without jeopardizing their benefits. For more information about ABLE accounts, check out ABLE National Resource Center (www.ablenrc.org). ABLE accounts have changed the way that our self-advocates live their lives. Click here to learn more about this legislation: https://lnkd.in/em-wXjN3 #ENABLEAct #downsyndrome #NDSC

New research highlights a critical healthcare disparity in Tennessee: people with disabilities are more likely to forgo doctor visits due to cost concerns. This financial barrier extends beyond general healthcare, significantly impacting access to essential dental care as well. The The American Institute of Dental Public Health (AIDPH) and Harmony Health have released an eye-opening report on the challenges faced by Tennesseans with disabilities in accessing oral health services. This disparity not only affects overall health but can lead to severe dental issues that could have been prevented with regular care. As professionals in healthcare, policy, and advocacy, we must address these systemic barriers. How can we work together to: - Reduce financial obstacles to healthcare for people with disabilities? - Improve dental care accessibility in our communities? - Raise awareness about the importance of oral health for overall well-being? We encourage you to read the full report and join the conversation on improving healthcare equity in Tennessee: https://bit.ly/tn-idd

Great article by Shaun Snyder about ABLE Accounts, and the free CLE being offered for ABLE accounts. This is offered through the NE bar as well, so be sure to share with attorneys who work with individuals with disabilities!

With new guidance, federal officials are outlining steps that states should take to ensure that people with disabilities are not inadvertently dropped from Medicaid home and community-based services.