Letters

9/20/2019

AUCD Policy Talk Blog Call for Submissions

8/1/2019

AUCD Opposes a Proposed Change to Section 1557 Nondiscrimination in Health and Health Education Programs or Activities

AUCD submitted public comments to the Department of Heath and Human Services Office for Civil Rights about the proposed change to Section 1557 regarding Nondiscrimination in Health and Health Education Programs or Activities.

8/1/2019

AUCD Opposes a Proposed Revision to the DSM-5's Entry for ID

AUCD submitted comments to the American Psychiatric Association (APA) strongly opposing a proposed change to the DSM-5 concerning the diagnostic criteria for intellectual disability (ID).

1/28/2019

AUCD Supports the Transformation to Competitive Employment Act

The Transformation to Competitive Employment Act phases out Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 and provides the resources necessary to allow for the transition to a competitive integrated employment (CIE) business model.

7/6/2018

Addressing the Policy Tangle: Students with Intellectual Disability and the Path to Postsecondary Education, Employment and Community Living

Joint Report: AUCD and NDSC

The Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) and National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) released a comprehensive report "Addressing the Policy Tangle: Students with Intellectual Disability and the Path to Postsecondary Education, Employment and Community Living" on implementation problems with using federal IDEA and vocational rehabilitation (VR) funding for postsecondary students with intellectual disabilities (ID).

5/15/2018

Family First Prevention Services Act Thank You Letter

Enacted as part of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018

Thank you letter

5/7/2018

Letter to Congress re: HR2: Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (Farm Bill)

In the U.S., all too often food insecurity and disability go together. Families that include people with disabilities are two to three times more likely to experience food insecurity than families that have no members with disabilities. Similarly, people experiencing food insecurity have increased likelihood of chronic illness and disability. AUCD joins the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) to urge Congress to continue the longstanding bipartisan commitment to protect and strengthen the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by rejecting proposals to restrict eligibility, reduce benefits, cap or reduce funding, or make harmful structural changes to SNAP in the Farm Bill.

3/12/2018

CCD Sign on Letter re Higher Ed Act recommendations

Recommendations to Senate

AUCD signed onto a Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities' letter of recommendations for the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act addressed to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate HELP Committee. The recommendations included recommendations on the Model Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities (TPSIDs).

3/12/2018

HEA: Inclusive Higher Education Committee recommendations for Senate Higher Ed Act reauthorization

AUCD joined a letter of inclusive education experts submitting recommendations for the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act of 2008 to the Chair and ranking Member of the Senate HELP Committee at their invitation. The recommendations specifically address inclusive postsecondary education and the Model Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities (TPSID).

12/12/2017

PROSPER Act Letters - Higher Education Opportunity Act Reauthorization

AUCD issued a letter to the Chairwoman and Ranking Member of the House Education & Workforce Committee regarding the Promoting Real Opportunity, Success, and Prosperity through Education Reform (PROSPER) Act (H.R. 4508). The PROSPER Act would reauthorize the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (HEOA) and the letter expresses AUCD's position on policy stances taken within the bill.

12/11/2017

Concerns with the Promoting Real Opportunity, Success, and Prosperity through Education Reform (PROSPER) Act

Higher Ed Reauthorization

12/11/2017

Support for the Improve Access to Higher Education amendment to H.R. 4058

Higher Ed Reauthorization

9/5/2017

Extension of Childrens Health Insurance Program

(CHIP)

The undersigned member organizations of the Save Medicaid in the Schools Coalition urge you to support a full, clean extension of funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for five years at current funding levels. CHIP has benefitted from strong bipartisan support since its creation in 1997. By providing medical assistance to children who are not eligible for Medicaid, CHIP provides essential funding to support states to cover uninsured children. Any delay or a failure to immediately extend funding for CHIP will jeopardize coverage for children who are eligible for school-based health-related services leading to immediate and lasting harmful effects for America�s most vulnerable citizens. A lapse in coverage for children places more barriers on their ability to come to school ready to learn. During a time of great uncertainty in the healthcare system, children need the consistent, reliable health coverage CHIP provides today.

8/18/2017

Letter to support and endorse the Department of Ed regulations implementing the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014

7/17/2017

AUCD signed a Letter in Support of the Improving Access to Higher Education Act of 2017

AUCD signed a letter in support of the Improving Access to Higher Education Act of 2017, which strengthens postsecondary education resources for students with disabilities, including Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities (TPSIDs).

6/13/2017

Health and Long Term Services are Threatened ACTION NEEDED NOW

5/25/2017

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of Bonamici/Polis Amendment

AUCD signed onto a letter expressing support for the Bonamici/Polis Amendment to the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for 21st Century Act (H.R. 2353), which reauthorizes the Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. The Bonamici/Polis Amendment helps ensure that the reauthorization legislation preserves secretarial authority that is necessary to ensure that programs are of high quality and serve students effectively.

5/25/2017

Raise the Wage Act Letter to Senator Murray

AUCD sent a letter to Senator Patty Murray, Ranking Member on the Senate HELP Committee, expressing strong support for the Raise the Wage Act, in particular its phasing out of subminimum wage certificates for workers with disabilities.

5/16/2017

Letter to House Committee - Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act

recommendation to the committee

AUCD is pleased that the House of Representatives is working in a bipartisan fashion to reauthorize and improve the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. In this letter, AUCD offers improvements to strengthen this Act.

4/18/2017

FY 2018 Letter to Appropriators

CDC Coalition

4/7/2017

Final LHHS Approps Letter -- DD Councils-PADD-UCEDDs

4/6/2017

Letter from Autism Caucus Chair Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to appropriators supporting federal funding for LEND and UCEDD programs in FY2018

4/5/2017

Dear Colleague letter led by Rep. Smith in support of AUTISM CARES Act funding

3/30/2017

CDC Coalition Letter to Senate Appropriation Committee

C/o American Public Health Association

The undersigned 182 members of the CDC Coalition and other supporting state and national organizations urge you to provide at least $7.8 billion for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention�s programs in the FY 2018 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. We are deeply disappointed that President Trump�s initial budget proposal recommends an astounding $15.1 billion or nearly 18 percent cut to the Department of Health and Human Service�s budget for FY 2018. While the president�s budget blueprint does not provide specific funding levels for CDC, given the size of the proposed cut to HHS, it is clear that funding for every HHS agency and program would be at risk under his proposal. We believe that Congress should prioritize funding for all of the activities and programs supported by CDC. CDC programs are essential to protect the health of the American people. Furthermore, we are deeply concerned about efforts to repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund, authorized by the Affordable Care Act, and the impact the loss of this funding would have on CDC�s annual budget. The Prevention and Public Health Fund currently accounts for 12 percent of CDC�s budget and Congress must ensure that CDC�s budget remains whole in the face of efforts to repeal the ACA.

3/28/2017

Letter Opposing Gorsuch Nomination from Organizations Representing the Rights of People with Disabilities Sent to Senate Judiciary Committee

3/27/2017

AUCD signed onto a Letter Urging FY 2018 Zika Appropriations

AUCD signed onto a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Labor-HHS Subcommittee requesting an increase in funding of public health and biomedical research programs in order to support an effective federal response to the Zika virus during FY 2018.

3/27/2017

Written testimony on to the Subcommittee

Associations funding recommendations for the network

3/17/2017

AUCD signed onto a Letter to Amazon Urging Prevention of Toxins

AUCD signed on to a letter to the CEO of Amazon, requesting that the company take action to prevent the negative public health impacts of toxic chemical-intensive products that exist within certain parts of its supply chain.

3/13/2017

Letter of Opposition to ADA Education and Reform Act of 2017 (H.R. 620)

AUCD signed on to a CCD letter opposing the H.R. 620 - the ADA Education and Reform Act of 2017, which would severely undermine the ability of people with disabilities to enforce their rights under Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

3/2/2017

AUCD signed onto an NDD Letter Opposing Cuts to Nondefense Discretionary Programs

AUCD signed on to an NDD United letter to members of Congress urging them to avoid making further reductions in nondefense discretionary programs, which serve vital functions and have already been cut heavily multiple times during the past few years.

2/27/2017

AUCD signed onto a Letter Stressing Important Work of Federal Public Health Agencies

AUCD signed on to a letter urging President Trump to consider the importance of the work done by federal public health and biomedical research professionals as his administration develops new long-term federal hiring policies.

2/15/2017

CCD Letter Opposing H.J. Res 57 Effort to Rescind ESSA Accountability Regulations

The CCD Education Task Force submitted a letter to members of the House of Representatives expressing opposition to H.J. Res 57, which seeks to rescind accountability regulations under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

2/7/2017

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Opposition of H.J. Res. 57

AUCD signed onto a letter from The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights expressing opposition to H.J. Res. 57 and urging Congress to support continued implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

1/19/2017

Letter to Chairman Alexander and Ranking Member Murray

Nomination of Betsy DeVos

AUCD has expressed serious concerns with several of the responses to questions that Betsy DeVos provided at her confirmation hearing to be the next Secretary of Education. As the Senate moves to vote on her nomination, AUCD calls upon Mrs. DeVos to clarify her support for the federal government's role in ensuring that every child with a disability receive a free, appropriate public education consistent with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

1/13/2017

AUCD signed onto a Letter Urging a Replacement Plan Before ACA Repeal

AUCD signed onto a letter to Congressional leaders urging that any legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) be accompanied by a detailed replacement plan that provides equal or improved access to high-quality affordable health coverage.

1/11/2017

AUCD signed onto a Letter Opposing the Nomination of Senator Sessions for Attorney General

AUCD signed onto a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee expressing strong opposition to the nomination of Senator Jeff Sessions for Attorney General, expressing deep concerns over his record and opposition to protecting the rights of people with disabilities.

10/31/2016

FY17 Appropriations

CCD Letter

Letter from CCD Education Task Force to Appropriations Committee Chairman Cole and Blunt, and Appropriations Committee Ranking Minority DeLauro and Murray urging them to support the highest possible spending levels for programs that support America�s 6 million children and youth with disabilities and the educators who work on their behalf.

10/18/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter from the Friends of HRSA to House Leaders Urging Support for Discretionary Programs

AUCD signed onto a letter from the Friends of HRSA and the American Public Health Association urging lawmakers to support an original FY 2017 request of $7.48 billion for discretionary HRSA programs in the final FY 2017 spending agreement. The letter was sent to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the House Appropriations Committee and the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies. The signatories to the letter requested that the committee members restore funding to HRSA programs that were made in earlier bills this year and urged lawmakers not to add any harmful policy riders.

10/18/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter from the Friends of HRSA to Senate Leaders Urging Support for Discretionary Programs

AUCD signed onto a letter from the Friends of HRSA and the American Public Health Association urging lawmakers to support an original FY 2017 request of $7.48 billion for discretionary HRSA programs in the final FY 2017 spending agreement. The letter was sent to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the Senate Appropriations Committee and the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies. The signatories to the letter requested that the committee members restore funding to HRSA programs that were made in earlier bills this year and urged lawmakers not to add any harmful policy riders.

9/19/2016

CCD Letter to Senate HELP Committee on Perkins Reauthorization

AUCD signed onto a letter from the co-chairs of the CCD Education Task Force to members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, expressing their concerns about provisions in the Perkins reauthorization bill that limit the power of Department of Education.

9/8/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of the RAISE Act

AUCD signed onto a letter in support of the Recognize, Assist, Include, Support and Engage (RAISE) Family Caregivers Act, which would implement the federal Commission on Long-Term Care's recommendation to create a national strategy to support family caregivers.

8/29/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of Exempting CRT Wheelchairs from Medicare's Competitive Bidding Pricing

AUCD signed onto a letter urging Congressional leaders to pass legislation that would permanently exempt Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) wheelchairs and components from Medicare's Competitive Bidding pricing.

8/22/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of the BENES Act

AUCD signed onto a letter in support of the Beneficiary Enrollment Notification and Eligibility Simplification (BENES) Act, which requires that a notice explaining Part B enrollment rules be mailed to all individuals who are transitioning into Medicare or nearing eligibility.

7/6/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of the Credit for Caring Act of 2016

AUCD signed onto a letter in support of the Credit for Caring Act of 2016, which amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 by adding a nonrefundable tax credit for working family caregivers.

5/31/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of Joint Guidance on Civil Rights of Transgender Students

AUCD signed onto a letter to Secretary of Education John King and Attorney General Loretta Lynch expressing support for the joint guidance issued by the Departments of Education and Justice on the responsibility of schools, districts and states to protect transgender and gender non-conforming students from discrimination.

5/27/2016

AUCD Comments on Proposed Rule to Ban Electrical Stimulation Devices (ESD)

AUCD submitted comments to the FDA on the proposed Rule to ban electrical stimulation devices (ESD) that are used to treat self-injurious or aggressive behavior. Research on aversive stimuli does not support the argument that the use of ESDs is either therapeutic or humane, and AUCD fully supports the FDA proposed Rule to ban them.

5/23/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of NICHD Funding

AUCD signed a letter from the Friends of NICHD urging members of Congress to ensure that any supplemental emergency funding bill includes appropriations that will allow the National Institute for Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) to pursue research into pregnancy and Zika-related birth outcomes.

5/23/2016

AUCD's IDDRCs Support Letter in Favor of Zika Funding

In a letter addressed to members of the House of Representatives, AUCD's Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Centers (IDDRC) urged lawmakers to secure the greatest possible level of emergency supplemental funding to combat the Zika virus, with a particular focus on bolstering research funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD).

5/10/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of Robust Funding for NIH & NICHD in FY 2017

AUCD signed onto a letter to senior members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, urging that they include at least $34.5 billion for the NIH and $1.441 billion for the NICHD in the fiscal year (FY) 2017.

4/29/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of Clarifying Regulations for Title I of the Every Student Succeeds Act

AUCD signed onto a letter urging the Department of Education to issue strong regulations that clarify how school districts must demonstrate compliance with the "supplement, not supplant" requirement in Title I of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

4/29/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter Opposing the SOAR Reauthorization Act

AUCD signed onto a letter urging members of the House of Representatives to oppose the SOAR Reauthorization Act.

4/8/2016

CCD Indicators of School Quality and Student Success in New Accountability Systems

As a member of the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, AUCD signed onto a statement issued by the CCD Education Taskforce that offers a set of recommenations with regard to indicators of school quality and student success. The recommendations are intended to advise states as they implement the Every Student Succeeds Act.

4/7/2016

Bonamici /Huffman Dear Colleague letter in support of IES fuding for FY2018

4/1/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in Support of the Mental Health Reform Act of 2016 (S .2680)

AUCD signed onto a CCD letter expressing support for the Mental Health Reform Act of 2016 (S. 2680), which if passed would expand essential mental health services while emphasizing reduced hospitalization and increased attention to addressing employment and housing issues.

3/28/2016

FY 2017 Lifespan Respite Care Act Letter to House Appropriations Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee

31 representatives signed onto a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee requesting the inclusion of $5 million for Lifespan Respite Care Act programs in the FY 2017 Labor-HHS-Education and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.

3/24/2016

FY 2017 DD Act Letter to House Appropriations Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee

Fourteen representatives signed onto a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee that expressed support for an increase in funding for DD Councils, UCEDDs and the Protection & Advocacy (P & A) system.

3/22/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter urging Members of Congress to Oppose Any Balanced Budget Amendment

AUCD signed onto a letter urging members of Congress to oppose any balanced budget amendment to the United States Constitution. Such an amendment would require massive cuts be made to ensure that the budget remained balanced, and would permanently slash funding for a massive array of initiatives that affect all Americans, including Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, SSDI, veterans' benefits, scientific research, and public education. The letter, which was originally drafted in 2011, has been signed by 281 organizations amid increased support for a balanced budget amendment among Senate Republicans and in state legislatures.

3/21/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in support of AT Act Funding in the LHHS Bill

AUCD signed onto a letter to the House and Senate Appropriations Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittees in support of $38 million in funding for AT Act Programs.

3/17/2016

FY 2017 DD Act Letter to Senate Appropriations Labor-HHS Subcommittee

Eleven senators signed onto a letter to the Senate Appropriations Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee urging Chairman Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-WA) to support increased funding for DD Councils, UCEDDs and the P & A system.

3/14/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter supporting a timely confirmation hearing for a new Supreme Court Justice

AUCD signed onto a CCD letter expressing strong support for a timely confirmation hearing on President Obama's nominee to succeed Justice Antonin Scalia on the Supreme Court.

3/7/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in support of Funding for the CDC Injury Center to Improve Concussion Surveillance

AUCD signed onto a letter supporting a $5 million budget allocation for the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) Control and Prevention Injury Center to Improve Concussion Surveillance, which would create a national surveillance system to track the incidence of sports-related concussions and neurological damage that could be associated with them.

3/1/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in favor of HRSA Appropriations

AUCD signed on to a letter to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees that supported the allocation of $7.48 billion in discretionary funding to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for FY2017. The letter was sent by the Friends of HRSA, a national coalition of organizations focused on supporting public health programs. HRSA plays an essential role in providing vital treatment and support services for individuals living in underserved, at-risk areas and helps minimize health disparities across the U.S. AUCD strongly recommends that Congress provide appropriate funds.

2/26/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in favor of IES Education Research Funding

AUCD signed onto a letter to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the House Appropriations Committee and Labor-HHS-Education Committee in support of $728 million in funding for the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), the independent, nonpartisan research and evaluation body within the U.S. Department of Education.

2/25/2016

AUCD Supports the Nomination of John King as Secretary of Education

AUCD supports President Obama's nomination of John King as Secretary of Education. Dr. King, who is currently the Acting Secretary, has considerable experience in public policy and teaching, having previously served as the Department of Education's Principal Senior Advisor. We urge the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee to approve his nomination as soon as possible.

2/22/2016

Letter in Favor of Maximum Possible Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Allocation

AUCD joined more than 600 organizations by signing on to a letter calling for the Senate and House Appropriations Committees to allocate the highest possible funding levels to programs within the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services and Education.

2/12/2016

Zika Emergency Funding Request

Letter to Senators Cochran, Mikulski, Blunt and Murray, and Representatives Rogers, Lowey, Cole and DeLauro

On behalf of the undersigned organizations, we are writing in support of the President�s $1.8 billion emergency funding request and for sustained federal funding related to responding to the Zika virus via public health programs. The effects on fetuses and newborns, including the devastating effects on the developing fetal brain, is a major health concern related to Zika infection. The health of women, infants and children is central to our mission, and we believe that the response by the government at home and abroad is essential to ensure that the American people are protected.

2/11/2016

AUCD signed onto a Letter in favor of more funding for Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittees

AUCD signed on to a letter in support of greater funding for Congressional subcommittees that manage appropriations for programs in the Departments of Labor, Education and Health and Human Services.

12/15/2015

AUCD signed onto a Letter to Representative Langevin and Representative Harper

AUCD signed on to a letter in support of the Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act (H.R. 3913), which will reauthorize the Lifespan Respite Care Program for five years.

11/12/2015

AUCD and CPR Comments on ACA Section 1557

Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (RIN 0945-AA02)

AUCD along with members of the Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation (CPR) provided comment on the proposed rule Nondiscrimination in Health Programs and Activities to implement section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in certain health programs or activities.

10/6/2015

AUCD wrote a Letter in support of Alternate Assessment Caps to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the HELP Committee

6/8/2015

AUCD joined more than 50 Civil Rights organizations to oppose H.R. 2577

The Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for FY 2016

This amendment to the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill would would prohibit HUD from enforcing its disparate impact rule.

5/18/2015

AUCD signed onto a Child Welfare Coalition Letter

AUCD signed onto a Child Welfare Coalition letter in support of the President's FY 2016 child welfare budget proposals.

5/11/2015

AUCD joined with other Disability and Civil Rights Organization on a Letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the HELP Committee

outlining the 4 major concerns with Every Child Achieves Act

5/7/2015

AUCD joined more than 30 National Organizations in support of Lifespan Respite, cargiver and family support in the FY 16 funding bill.

5/4/2015

AUCD signed on to a letter supporting the bipartisan Older Americans Act Re authorization of 2015

5/1/2015

Testimony of the Chair of Friends of NICHD, Rachel Gandell

Testimony by Rachel Gandell, the Chair of the Friends of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). The coalition included over 100 organizations representing scientist, physicians, health care providers, patients and parents concerned with the health and welfare of women, children, families, and people with disabilities. Advocating for Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations Subcommittee to support at least $32 billion for the NIH, including $1.37 billion for NICHD for FY2016

4/29/2015

AUCD signed in Partnership with CPSD to Support Funding for the Department of HHS

activities promoting community integration for individuals with disabilities

AUCD signed onto a letter as a part of the Collaboration to Promote Self-Determination (CPSD) supporting the continued appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for activities promoting community integration for individuals with disabilities.

4/20/2015

AUCD signed onto a letter thanking the founding members of the Assisting Caregivers Today Caucus (ACT).

2/24/2015

AUCD signed on to a Letter Thanking Congressman Don Beyer for Introudcing Keeping All Students Safe Act (H.R. 927)

AUCD signed onto a letter thanking Congressman Beyer for introducing the Keeping All Students Safe Act, H.R. 927, which safeguards students and staff from dangerous and deadly restraint and seclusion in schools.

2/24/2015

AUCD signed onto a letter Thanking Ranking Member Bobby Scott for being the Primary Original Cosponsor of the Keeping All Students Safe Act, H.R. 927.

AUCD signed onto a letter with over 200 National, State, and Local Organizations thanking Ranking Member Bobby Scott for being the Original Cosponsor of the Keeping All Students Safe Act.

12/6/2014

AUCD Letter Providing Comments to CMS on Speech Generating Devices

10/14/2014

Coalition Letter on FY 15 HELP Assistive Technology

Committee on Disabilities Technology and Telecommunications Task Force of the Consortium for Citizen with Disabilities wrote a letter requesting support for the inclusion of $38 million in final FY 15 budget for the Assistive Technology Act

10/14/2014

Coalition Letter on FY15 Labor-HHS-Education Assistive Technology Act

Committee on Disabilities Technology and Telecommunications Task Force of the Consortium for Citizen with Disabilities wrote a letter requesting support for the inclusion of $38 million in final FY 15 budget for the Assistive Technology Act

10/14/2014

Coalition Thank You Letter

Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities Technology and Telecommunications Task Force thanks Rep. DeLauro for funding the Assistive Technology Act.

8/27/2014

Coalition Requests Support for Rep. Cathy McMorris Rogers' Dear Colleague Letter

Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Technology and Telecommunications Task Force, wrote a letter asking Representatives and Senators to support Rep. Cathy McMorris Rogers' Dear Colleague letter: "Ensure ALS Patients Retain Access to Critical Communication Tools; Join letter to CMS urging clarification of recent Speech Generating Device policies�

8/22/2014

Coalition Letter Thanking Senators Harkin and Alexander for the opportunity to offer recommendations on the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act

Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Technology and Telecommunications Task Force thanks Senators Harkin and Alexander for the opportunity to offer recommendations to reauthorization of the Higher Education Act

8/15/2014

Letter of Support for Family Caregiver Legislation

AUCD signed on to this national letter of support for the Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act (H.R. 4683) and Military and Veteran Caregiver Services Improvement Act (H.R. 4892).

4/11/2014

Alliance to Prevent Restraint, Aversive Intervention, and Seclusion Urges FDA to Ban Electric Shock

AUCD signed on to this letter from the Alliance to Prevent Restraint, Aversive Intervention, and Seclusion (APRAIS) responding to a Food and Drug Administration request for comments regarding the use of electric shock devices for behavioral modification. The coalition urged the FDA to ban the use of these devices.

2/23/2014

Coalition Letter on FY15 Labor-HHS-Education 302(b) Allocation

Committee on Education Funding, the Coalition for Health Funding, and the Campaign to Invest in America's Workforce partner letter requesting a FY15 302(b) allocation for the Labor-HHS-Education subcommittee at least at the FY10 level.

1/15/2014

DD Network Supports the Workforce Investment Act

In a letter to Senators Harkin, Alexander, Murray, and Isakson, the national DD Network leaders from AUCD, the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities and National Disability Rights Network showed their support for the bipartisan Workforce Investment Act.

11/25/2013

AUCD Joins Disability Community in Supporting Chai Feldblum for Second Term as EEOC Commissioner

AUCD joined many other major disability organizations in signing on to this letter supporting Chai Feldblum's nomination for a second term on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

11/4/2013

AUCD Letter to Rep. Lucas regarding House and Senate Farm Bills

AUCD Letter to Representative Lucas regarding the House and Senate Farm Bills and proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

11/4/2013

AUCD Letter to Senator Stabenow regarding the House and Senate Farm Bills

AUCD Letter to Senator Stabenow regarding the House and Senate Farm Bills and proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

8/13/2013

AUCD Submits Comments to National Long-Term Care Commission

The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 averted the "fiscal cliff" crisis, but it also repealed the CLASS Act, a part of the ACA that would have created a national long-term services and supports program. In exchange, the legislation created a national Commission on Long-Term Care tasked with developing recommendations for national long-term services and supports policy. AUCD submitted comments to the commission today.

7/30/2013

ABLE Letter to Senate Finance Leadership

7/30/2013

AUCD thank you to Senators Harkin and Alexander for introducing a bill to reauthorize and strengthen the Workforce Investment Act, including Title V, the Rehabilitation Act

AUCD thanks Senators Harkin and Alexander for working together to introduce a bill to reauthorize and strengthen the Workforce Investment Act.

6/18/2013

AUCD Thank you letter to Rep. Miller upon introduction of a substitute bill to reauthorize the ESEA

6/18/2013

AUCD thank you letter to Senator Murray for introducing the Caring for Military Children with Developmental Disabilities Act

6/10/2013

CCD Letter of Support for Strengthening America's Schools Act

6/10/2013

Letter to Senator Harkin Regarding the Strengthening America's Schools Act

The AUCD thanks Senator Harkin for his leadership on behalf of students with developmental and other disabilities

5/22/2013

AUCD Joins other National Organizations in Urging House Appropriators to Fund Lifespan Respite Program

AUCD joins other national aging and disability organizations in a letter to the chair and ranking member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education to provide level funding for the Lifespan Respite program.

5/10/2013

AUCD Thanks Rep. Miller for Reintroducing Keeping All Students Safe Act

On May 9, 2013,Congressman George Miller (D-CA), ranking member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, re-introduced the Keeping All Students Safe Act (HR 1893). AUCD strongly supports the Keeping All Students Safe Act.

5/9/2013

APRAIS Thank You Letters to Reps. Miller and Harper for Reintroducing Keeping All Students Safe Act

On May 9, 2013, Congressman George Miller (D-CA), ranking member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, re-introduced the Keeping All Students Safe Act (HR 1893). He was joined by 12 co-sponsors, including Gregg Harper (R-MS).

5/2/2013

Dear Colleague Letter by Rep. Langevin Supports FY 14 Lifespan Respite Funding

Dear Colleague by Rep. Langevin that was signed by an additional 34 House members in support of FY 14 Lifespan Respite funding

5/1/2013

Rep. Langevin's Dear Colleague letter in support of strong funding levels for UCEDD and LEND programs in FY 2014

Representative Langevin's letter to his colleagues on the appropriations committee supports at least level funding for the UCEDD and LEND programs. 13 other members joined in signing the letter.

2/26/2013

Letter of Support for the Reintroduction of the Advancing FASD Research, Prevention, and Services Act

The comprehensive nature of this act creates an opportunity to not only help thousands of families and individuals affected by FASD, but also to significantly impact critical efforts in prevention and research.

2/15/2013

AUCD Signs Letter in Support of the Reintroduction of the ABLE Act in the 113th Congress

The ABLE Act will give individuals with disabilities and their families the ability to save for the future just like every other American. We commend the Senators and Representatives who introduced the bill for their bold leadership in championing this important legislation, and look forward to working with them to support its enactment.

10/9/2012

AUCD Signs onto "Balanced Deficit Reduction" Letter to Senate

AUCD signs onto CCD Letter urging members of the Senate to support the goal of developing a balanced approach to resolving the nation?s deficit and thereby avoid irreparable harm to individuals with disabilities and their families. The letter lays out CCD's core principles regarding a fair and balanced approach to deficit reduction.

8/15/2012

CCD Letter to National Governors Association on Employment of People with Disabilities

This CCD letter to the Chair of the NGA, Gov. Jack Markell, applauds the new NHA initiative "A Better Bottom Line: Employing People with Disabilities."

7/24/2012

AUCD Signs onto "Tax Fairness" Letter to the Senate

AUCD joins 128 national organizations to sign onto this letter advocating against the continuation of the Bush-era tax cuts which benefit the richest two percent of Americans. It asks that the cuts be allowed to expire on schedule at the end of this year stating that it is time to begin to restore some basic fairness to our tax system.

6/11/2012

CCD Letter on Republican-sponsored bill to reauthorize the Workforce Investment Act

The Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities Employment and Training Task Force sent this letter to Congress voicing concerns about Republican-sponsored legislation to reauthorize the Workforce Investment Act

5/22/2012

AUCD Signs on to Letters Urging Congress to Support Lifespan Respite Programs

AUCD joined over 35 national organizations representing all ages and disabilities, to urge necessary funding in the FY 2013 Labor/HHS/Education Appropriations bill for respite and other critical support programs that provide the safety net for family caregivers across the lifespan. The letter requests $5 million for the Lifespan Respite Care Program (which given the serious fiscal constraints facing the nation, is reduced significantly from prior years' requests). The organizations also seek support for the National Family Caregiver Support Program ($154 million); and the Native American Caregiver Support Program ($6 million).

5/10/2012

AUCD Thank You Letter to Rep. Miller for Floor Statement on Restraint and Seclusion

On Wednesday, May 9th, Representative George Miller (D-CA) gave a speech in the House of Representatives urging Congress to pass the Keeping All Students Safe Act. AUCD sent this letter thanking him for his continued efforts to limit restraint and seclusion in schools.

4/23/2012

AUCD Supports Enforcement of ADA Pool Accessibility Standards

Signs on to CCD statement opposing series of House and Senate Bills

Disability rights organizations write in opposition to Congressional effort to roll back, or prevent enforcement of, the Justice Department's September 15, 2010 regulations setting forth requirements to ensure that swimming pools are accessible to people with disabilities. Within the last month four (4) bills have been introduced between the House and the Senate which raise serious concerns regarding the implementation of the ADA pool accessibility standards.

4/5/2012

Sign-on Letter to Congress on WIPA and PABSS Programs

AUCD signed onto this letter to House and Senate Members asking for a minimum three year extension of WIPA and PABSS programs. Both WIPA and PABSS are vital to help SSDI and SSI recipients who wish to return to the workforce.

4/3/2012

CCD Letter in Response to AASA Report

AUCD signed onto this letter from the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities Education Task Force in response to a report promoting the use of restraint and seclusion in schools.

3/23/2012

CCD Letter in Response to Ryan Budget's Medicaid Proposal

The Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities sent this letter to House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan expressing concern over his proposal to convert Medicaid to block grants and make drastic cuts to the program.

3/20/2012

33 Members Sign Letter to House Appropriators for Lifespan Respite in FY 13

Today, 33 Representatives signed onto a letter to Denny Rehberg (R-MT), Chair, and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Ranking Member, of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor Health & Human Services, and Education.

3/19/2012

AUCD Signs Letter Supporting Wage-and-Hour Protections for Direct Care Workers

AUCD signed this letter in support of proposed regulations revising the "companionship exemption" under the Fair Labor Standards Act to ensure home care workers minimum wage and overtime pay.

2/6/2012

CCD Letter on House ESEA Reform Bills

AUCD signed onto this letter from the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities opposing two bills introduced by House Republicans to reauthorize ESEA.

1/17/2012

AUCD Signs Letter Urging Congress to Protect the CLASS Act

On January 17, 2012, over fifty organizations, including AUCD, signed a letter addressed to the Ways and Means Committee urging them to reject H.R. Bill 1173, which calls for the repeal of the CLASS Act. CLASS is a program that protects the provision of long-term supports and services for individuals with disabilities and their family members. To view the full letter click the link above.

12/29/2011

Sign-on Letter in Support of the Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act (HR 3266)

AUCD signed onto this letter with a number of national organizations supporting the newly-introduced Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act (H.R. 3266).

12/21/2011

AUCD Letter in Support of the Keeping All Students Safe Act (S. 2020)

AUCD sent this letter to Senator Tom Harkin in support of the recently-introduced Keeping All Students Safe Act, S. 2020.

11/29/2011

Letter from the SSI Coalition for Children and Families to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Resources

AUCD signed on to this letter from the SSI Coalition for Children and Families to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Resources.

11/21/2011

Sign-on Letters for Teacher Quality Bills

AUCD signed onto letters supporting new legislation to promote teacher quality and effectiveness for students with disabilities, the Assuring Successful Students through Effective Teaching Act (S. 1716) and the Equal Access to Quality Education Act (HR 2902).

10/25/2011

Republican Governors Public Policy Committee letter to the Super Committee

Letter from the Republican Governors Public Policy Committee to the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction.

10/19/2011

Health Reform Law Creates New Opportunities to Better Recognize and Support Family Caregivers

This fact sheet by PPI's Lynn Feinberg highlights provisions in the Affordable Care Act that address family caregiver needs.

10/6/2011

CCD Sign-On Letter Opposing Unlimited Alternate Assessments for Students with Disabilities

AUCD signed onto this letter opposing S. 1571, a bill that would allow states to administer alternate assessments to any number of students with disabilities. The result would likely be the removal of any number of students with disabilities from the general accountability system.

8/31/2011

CCD Letter to the Joint Special Committee

The Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) sent this letter to the Joint Special Committee on Deficit Reduction outlining principles to consider while crafting language and instructions for cutting the deficit. CCD is a broad coalition of national organizations of which AUCD is an active member.

8/25/2011

Statement from Coalition for Health Funding on FY2012 Appropriations

This statement from the Coalition for Health Funding urges Congress to recognize our nation's public health programs as a critical national priority in the FY 2012 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.

7/7/2011

"Dear Colleague" Letter supporting funding for IDEA

24 Senators signed this "Dear Colleague" letter to Senate appropriators urging them to provide the highest possible funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act for fiscal year 2012

7/6/2011

Lifespan Respite and family caregiver appropriations letter FY 2012

AUCD signed onto this letter in support of funding for the Lifespan Respite Care Program and other critical support programs that provide the safety net for family caregivers across the lifespan.

6/29/2011

AUCD signs on in support of the Family Medical Leave Inclusion Act

AUCD signed onto a letter prepared by the National Partnership for Women and Families in support of a bill planned to be introduced by Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) and Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-NY). The Family Medical Leave Inclusion Act (FMLIA) updates the Family Medical Leave Act of 1993 to reflect the diverse nature of American families and their caregiver roles, and will help workers meet the dual demands of work and family. The FMLIA allows an employee to take unpaid leave to care for adult children with disabilities (current law is limited to caring for children under the age of 18). The bill would also allow a worker to care for a parent-in-law, sibling, grandchild or grandparent, or same-sex partner if that person has a serious health condition.

6/10/2011

Dear Colleague letter from Rep. Blumenthal (D-CT) urging appropriators to support funding for DD Act programs in FY 2012

6/2/2011

Letter to Washington Post Editor Related to Proposed Cuts in Medicaid

AUCD Board President, Daniel Crimmins, PhD, submitted a letter to the Editor of the Washington Post related to concerns over proposed cuts to Medicaid as a means toward balancing the budget.

5/31/2011

CCD Letter thanking Rep. Chris Smith for introducing legislation to reauthorization of the Combating Autism Act

AUCD signed on to this letter from the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities thanking Rep. Smith (R-NJ) for introducing legislation to reauthorize the Combating Autism Act.

5/26/2011

CCD Letter thanking Senator Menendez for introducing legislation to reauthorization of the Combating Autism Act

AUCD signed on to this letter from the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities thanking Sen. Menendez (D-NJ) for introducing legislation to reauthorize the Combating Autism Act. An identical letter was sent to Senators, Enzi, Durbin, and Brown.

5/25/2011

AUCD signs on to CCD letter in opposition to HR 1683

AUCD signed on to a letter from the Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities to oppose the passage of HR 1683, the State Flexibility Act. This legislation repeals Medicaid and CHIP Maintenance of Effort (MOE) requirements under the 2009 stimulus bill and the Affordable Care Act of 2010.

5/2/2011

Letter to Congress Opposing Repeal of Mandatory Funding of Health Benefit Exchanges

AUCD signed on to a letter from nearly 80 national, state/local organizations in opposition to H.R. 1213 which would repeal funding provided to states for the establishment of American Health Benefit Exchanges under the Affordable Care Act.

4/26/2011

CCD Comments on CMS Proposed Rule for "Medicaid Program: Community First Choice Option"

The Long Term Supports and Services Task Force of the Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities submitted comments on Community First Choice proposed rules in the Affordable Health Care Act.

4/14/2011

AUCD Thank You Letter to Sen. Durbin for the Autism Services and Workforce Acceleration Act

AUCD sent this letter to Sen. Richard Durbin thanking him for introducing the ASWAA.

4/5/2011

Sign-on Letter on Appropriations from the National Child Abuse Coalition

AUCD signed on to this letter to House and Senate appropriators urging them to protect funding for child protective services, Early Head Start and prevention programs supporting healthy child development.

4/4/2011

CCD Autism Task Force Letter to Congress

AUCD signed on to this letter from the CCD Autism Task Force asking Congress to reauthorize the Combating Autism Act.

4/4/2011

Letter from Governors Opposing the Block Granting of Medicaid

17 Governors signed on to an April 4, 2011 letter in opposition to Medicaid block grants.

3/31/2011

CCD Sign-on Letter in Support of IDEA Fairness Restoration Act (S. 613, HR 1208)

AUCD signed onto this letter urging members of Congress to cosponsor the IDEA Fairness Restoration Act, which allows parents to be reimbursed for expert witness fees incurred as part of due process proceedings.

2/7/2011

Letter to President Obama on "Highly Qualified" Teachers Definition

Sign-on letter

AUCD signed onto this letter regarding the definition of "highly qualified" teachers recently enacted by Congress.

1/24/2011

Letter on National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services in Health Care

Sign-on letter

AUCD signed onto this letter with a number of self-advocacy and disability advocacy groups in support of the HHS Office of Minority Health's enhancement initiative to ensure that the National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) in Health Care remain current and appropriate.

1/24/2011

Letter Regarding HIT Quality Measures

Sign-on Letter

AUCD, along with a number of self-advocacy and disability advocacy organizations, signed onto this letter supporting the Health Information Technology (HIT) Policy Committee's Measure Concepts with some requested modifications to ensure the quality of care of people with disabilities.

11/24/2010

"Dear Colleague" Letter to President Obama

This letter requests that the President include $50 million in his FY 2012 Budget Request for Lifespan Respite.

10/25/2010

Sign-on letter for National Health Care Quality and Strategy Plan

AUCD signed onto this disability coalition letter to the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in response to the department's request for public input in the development of a National Health Care Quality Strategy and Plan.

9/29/2010

Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), Health Task Force Co-Chairs Letter: High Risk Pools

CCD Comment letter on interim final rules that implement provisions of the Affordable Care Act regarding the pre-existing condition insurance plan program.

9/24/2010

National Child Abuse Coalition sign-on letter on increased CAPTA appropriations

AUCD signed onto this letter to Sen. Harkin urging retention of the $10 million in new funding for CAPTA discretionary spending proposed by the Obama Administration for preventive services. The same letter was sent to the members of the Senate Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee, and a similar version went addressed to Rep. David Obey, as chair of the House subcommittee, and his subcommittee colleagues.

9/22/2010

CCD Sign-on Letter: Rosa's Law (S. 2871)

Final letter sent to leaders from the House of Representatives urging the House to vote for passage of Rosa's Law.

9/21/2010

AUCD Employment Comment Letter: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination Obligations of Contractors and Subcontractors: Evaluation of Affirmative Action Provisions under Section 503

Letter submitted to OFCCP on how they can strengthen the the regulations implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

7/28/2010

CCD Sign-on Letter supporting ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)

AUCD signed on to this letter from the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities supporting the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

7/14/2010

AUCD Sign-on Letter: Senate and House Appropriations Committee Letter on Data Collection to Address Disparities

Letter regarding implementation of data collection provisions in the Affordable Care Act.

7/12/2010

AUCD Sign-on Letter: The Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2009 (ABLE Act).

Sign-on letter urging the House Ways & Means Committee Leadership to move expeditiously in passing H.R. 1205.

7/6/2010

GINA sign-on letter to EEOC

AUCD signed on to this letter to the Chair of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission urging the Commission to ensure that final regulations for the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) are strong and consistent with the law's intent.

5/23/2010

AUCD Sign-on Letter: Department of Labor Survey of Employer Provided Coverage

Letter to the Director of the Office of Health Reform urging collaboration with the Office of Management and Budget to make the necessary funds available to the Department of Labor to fulfill implementing the survey of employer-sponsored coverage mandated by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA, PL 111-148)

3/30/2010

AHIP letter to Secretary Sebelius re children and health reform

The President of America's Health Insurance Plans sent this letter to Secretary Kathleen Sebelius regarding coverage of children with pre-existing conditions.

3/22/2010

CCD Sign-on Letter: Accountability for Students with Disabilities

AUCD signed on to this letter urging Congress to reject the policy of using the IEP as an accountability tool

3/18/2010

CCD Health Reform sign-on letter to House of Representatives

AUCD signed on to this letter from the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities urging the House of Representatives to pass the Senate-passed health reform bill, H.R. 3590.

3/4/2010

The Lifespan Respite Care Act FY 2011 Dear Colleague Letter

Requesting that the House fully fund the Lifespan Respite Care Act in FY 2011

3/3/2010

Three sign-on letters for restraint and seclusion legislation

AUCD signed on to these three letters regarding the Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion in Schools Act (HR 4247). The letters respond to arguments opposing the legislation and urge for the inclusion of the Senate bill's (S. 2860) requirement that schools have a debriefing session with parents after restraint or seclusion is implemented.

2/25/2010

Coalition for Health Funding Appropriations Letter FY 2011

AUCD signed on to this letter from the Coalition for Health Funding urging Congress to authorize $67.1 billion in FY 2011 for discretionary public health programs.

2/3/2010

CCD health reform now sign-on letter

AUCD signed on to this letter from the Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities, urging Congress to push forward and pass health care reform.

2/1/2010

APRAIS recommendation letter to sponsors of the Preventing Harmful Restraints and Seclusion in Schools Act

AUCD signed on to this letter from the APRAIS coalition which includes recommendations for changes to the legislation as the bills go through markup.

1/25/2010

Letter to Democratic leaders on autism training provisions in health reform

AUCD sent this letter to House and Senate Democratic leaders urging them to include autism training provisions in the House health reform bill in a final bill.

1/19/2010

CCD Health Reform Conference Letter

AUCD signed on to this Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) letter to House and Senate leaders containing CCD's comprehensive recommendations for a final health reform bill. (sign-ons not included)

1/19/2010

CLASS Act and LTSS sign on letters

AUCD signed on to these letters to Congressional leaders urging the inclusion of the CLASS Act and other Long-term Services and Supports provisions in a final health reform bill.

1/19/2010

Medicaid Parity Sign-On Letter

AUCD signed on to this letter to secure an extension of the temporary FMAP increase established by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

12/23/2009

HIPAA & Employer Wellness Programs sign-on letter

AUCD signed onto this letter representing a large number of organizations who have concerns about provisions in the Senate health reform bill that would codify 2006 regulatory changes to HIPAA.

12/16/2009

Letter of support to Sen. Casey regarding CHIP amendment

AUCD signed on to a letter to Sen. Robert Casey (D-Pa.) in support of his proposed amendment to the Senate health reform bill to fully fund and improve the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Among other things, the amendment will fund CHIP through 2019, streamline enrollment procedures, and ensure that coverage for children remains affordable.

12/15/2009

House Dear Colleague letter for the Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion in Schools Act HR 4247

Leaders of the House Education and Labor Committee sent this letter urging their colleagues to cosponsor HR 4247.

12/14/2009

Letter submitted to Washington Post re: CLASS Act

Letter to the Editor of the Washington Post in response to an editorial about the CLASS Act. Written by Larry Minnix, CEO of the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, and Marty Ford, Chairperson of the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities.

12/9/2009

APRAIS letter to Rep. Miller for introducing seclusion and restraint legislation

AUCD helped draft a letter to Rep. George Miller (D-CA), thanking him for introducing legislation to restrict the use of restraint and seclusion in schools. Identical letters were sent to Rep. Cathy McMorris-Rodgers (R-WA), who cosponsored the bill, and Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-CT), who introduced a similar bill in the Senate.

12/9/2009

CCD Race to the Top sign-on letter

AUCD signed onto a Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) letter to the Department of Education regarding the current Race to the Top Assessment Program. The letter outlines CCD recommendations for consideration by the Department as it develops the Race to the Top Assessment Competition and the next generation of summative assessments.

11/30/2009

GINA sign-on letter to Secs. Geithner, Sebelius and Solis

AUCD signed on to this letter to Secretaries Geithner, Sebelius and Solis in support of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act and its implementing provisions to take effect Dec. 7.

11/20/2009

CLASS Act Thank You letter to Sen. Reid

AUCD has signed on to this letter thanking Senator Reid for his work to include the CLASS Act in the Senate's merged health care reform bill.

11/16/2009

CPSD Employment Sign-On Letter to Sen Harkin

AUCD signed on to this letter to Sen. Harkin outlining recommendations for improvements in employment policies for people with disabilities.

11/16/2009

Mikulski/Enzi Dear Colleague letter for Rosa's Law cosponsors

Senators Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) and Michael Enzi (R-WY) sent a letter to their colleagues in the Senate requesting cosponsors for a new bill that would replace current language in federal laws with person-first language.

11/16/2009

National Child Abuse Coalition sign-on ltr to OMB on CAPTA appropriations

AUCD signed on to this letter by NCAC urging increased appropriations for CAPTA in the FY 2011 President's Budget

10/28/2009

Letter to OMB regarding CAPTA funding

Sen. Dodd and Rep. Miller sent this letter to the Office of Management and Budget Director urging for increased funds for child abuse and neglect.

10/26/2009

Congressional health disparities letter for final health reform legislation

AUCD signed on to a letter urging Congress and the Administration to leave intact the health equity provisions in health reform legislation.

10/19/2009

CCD Letter on Health Care Reform to the Senate

10/19/2009

Letters to Congress urging the inclusion of long term care and supports in health care reform

10/12/2009

Letter regarding Judge Rotenberg Center to Human Rights Groups and Federal Agencies

9/17/2009

AUCD Letter to President Obama supporting health care reform principles

9/14/2009

AUCD Letter to President Obama regarding data collection in health disparities

8/4/2009

Department of Education Letter to State School Officers

Letter urging revision of restraint and seclusion practices by beginning of the 2009 school year

7/16/2009

Final Sign-On Letter in Support of TriCaucus Health Disparities Legislation

AUCD signs-on with 170 organizations and coalition in support of the TriCaucus health disparities legislation ? the Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2009 - and its inclusion in health reform legislation for your records. This letter was delivered to Congress and the Administration yesterday, July 14. AUCD will continue working with partner organizations to support the inclusion of health disparities reduction and elimination efforts in health reform. TriCaucus staffers are extremely grateful for all the support and wanted to thank everyone for their efforts.

7/9/2009

AUCD Letter to HHS Secretary on support of the CLASS Act in health care reform

7/9/2009

Letter from HHS Secretary in support of CLASS Act inclusion in Affordable Health Choices Act

7/2/2009

CCS Social Security Administration Letter to Senate Appropriations Subcommittee

6/30/2009

CCD Letter to House Leadership on Health Care Reform

AUCD signed onto to a letter with the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) to House leadership citing a serious concern regarding the pressure to lower the cost of a reform bill that could lead lawmakers to inadvertently modify two programs that may negatively impact individuals with disabilities.

6/10/2009

Editorial: Health Bill Would Fix What's Broken. Sen. Kennedy, Boston Globe

We have the greatest doctors and medical innovations in the world, but more and more Americans are on the outside looking in to a world of progress and discovery that is denied to them because they cannot afford quality healthcare.
That's wrong - and it's about to change.

6/2/2009

President Obama's Letter to Senators Kennedy and Baucus

President Obama's letter thanking the Senators for working in a bipartisan fashion on health care reform as well as his consideration of specific health care issues.

6/1/2009

AUCD Sign-on letter to support the National Children's Study

This letter requests FY2010 funding of $194.4 million for the National Children's Study (NCS) within the NIH Office of the Director, as proposed by the President's Budget. This funding will allow for the completion of the pilot phase of the NCS.

5/29/2009

Thank you letter to Senator Durbin for Autism Treatment Acceleration Act of 2009

AUCD's thank you letter to Senator Durbin (D-CA) for his introduction of the Autism Acceleration Act of 2009.

5/26/2009

Letter on Health Disparities for Individuals with Disabiltiies and Health Care Reform

Letter signed by over 120 national, state, and local disability organizations providing recommendations on addressing health disparities for individuals with disabilities in health care reform.

4/6/2009

AUCD Letter of Support for Community Choice Act (S. 683/H.R.1721)

4/6/2009

CCD Letter on Hate Crimes Act

A sign on letter developed by AUCD in partnership with the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities to support the passage of the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009. This legislation would grant agencies the authority to investigate and prosecute federal crimes based on the victim's disability, whether actual or perceived, and would authorize funding to states to help with the prosecution of Hate Crimes.

4/6/2009

National Sign on Letter to Include Long-Term Services and Supports in Health Care Refrom

Letter signed by nearly 100 national aging and disability organizations urginf the inclusion of long-term services and supports as part of health care refrom.

4/3/2009

Rep. Langevin's Dear Colleague Letter Urging Increased Funding for DD Act Programs

3/31/2009

Coalition for Health Funding letter to Budget leaders urging them to increase money in the Budget Resolution for public health programs

3/19/2009

Coalition for Health Funding recommendation for health programs in FY 2010

3/16/2009

AUCD Letter of Support for the CLASS Act

2/9/2009

AUCD Letter to Sen. Harkin advocating for funds within the economic stimulus to be directed to the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDD)

2/3/2009

CCD Letter Supporting Medicaid Increase in the Economic Stimulus Bill (HR1)

2/3/2009

Report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities

House Economic Recovery Package: State-by-State Estimates of Key Provisions Affecting Low and Moderate Income Individuals

2/3/2009

Report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities

Preliminary Analysis of Medicaid Assistance for States in the House Economic Recovery Package

12/9/2008

Coalition for Health: Letters to Leadership on Final 09 Labor-H Bill

11/11/2008

CCD Letter Health Care Reform Priorities

CCD Letter from Health and Long-Term Services Task Forces indicating priorities for health care reform

3/19/2008

UCEDD/LEND Dear Colleague Letter to Appropriations Committee

12/4/2007

CCD letter to finance committee chairs outlining priorities in medicare bill

11/30/2007

Letter to appropriators regarding funding for the Lifespan Respite Care Act

9/13/2007

Pelosi/ Hoyer Mental Health Parity Letter

9/10/2007

Letter of Support from CCD Co-Chairs Health & Long Term Services & Supports Task Forces for Four Specific Disability-Related Provisions in the House Version of the SCHIP Reauthorization Bill

8/17/2007

CMS Guidance Letter on SCHIP Eligibility

Letter issued to states on guidance of coverage for children in families above 250% of the federal poverty level

7/26/2007

SCHIP Support Letter from AUCD to the House

7/12/2007

CCD letter to Rep. Frank in support of the National Affordable Housing Trust Fund Act of 2007 (H.R. 2895)

7/6/2007

Letter Urging Co-Sponsorship of Promoting Wellness for Individuals with Disabilities Act

A "Dear Colleague" letter from Senator Tom Harkin encouraging co-sponsorship of Senate Bill 1050, the Promoting Wellness for Persons with Disabilities Act.

3/30/2007

Universal Design Lanuage NCLB Reauthorization

Sign on letter concerning recommendations for legislative langauge on universal design

3/19/2007

Letter of Support to Senator Allard Regarding the Expanding the Promise to Individuals with Autism Act

3/19/2007

Letter of Support to Senator Clinton Regarding the Expanding the Promise to Individuals with Autism Act

2/26/2007

It's Time to Make Public Health Funding a National Priority

Coalition for Health Funding letter urging members of Congress to increase funding for public health through the Function 550/discretionary budget allocation in Fiscal Year 2008.

1/10/2007

State Children's Health Insurance Program Funding

Letter to the House Budget Committee regarding SCHIP funding.

10/1/2006

CDC Funding

Sign-on letter drafted by the Campaign for Public Health sent to the President regarding funding for the CDC.

9/27/2006

FY 2007 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Funding Bill

Coalition for Health Funding letter to House Leaders urging them to increase funding for the FY 2007 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education funding bill.

9/21/2006

CCD letter to Congress regarding disability related amendments to the Stafford Act

Letter from the CCD Emergency Management Task Force expressing support for the disability-specific provisions of the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Bill.

9/11/2006

FY2007 Budget Process Reform Measures: Final letter to all Members of Congress objecting to legislation enhancing the line item veto and creating sunset commissions

7/12/2006

House Funding for NIH and the National Children's Study: Sign-on letter to the House Appropriations Committee

7/12/2006

Senate Funding for NIH and the National Children's Study: Sign-on letter to Sens. Harkin, Spector and the Appropriations Committee

3/16/2006

Bipartisan Support for UCEDD and LEND Funding

Sign-on letter from 25 bipartisan Members of Congress urging appropriators to support funding for University Centers on Disabilities.

3/30/2005

Medicaid Coalition Letter to CMS Regarding TennCare 1115 Waiver Proposal

9/29/2004

Letter from New Hampshire Governor Benson to HHS Secretary Thompson on the Department's 15-page Medicaid Waiver Concept Paper

6/14/2004

Letter to Rep. Session Regarding Family Opportunity Act and Money Follows the Person Demonstration

11/21/2003

Letter to the Secretary of the Department of Labor regarding WIA reauthorization

CCD letter to Secretary Chao encouraging continued support of the Senate-passed WIA reauthorization and opposition to provisions that would create obstacles to employment and training services to individuals with disabilities.

6/20/2003

CCD Recommendations to the Senate for WIA/Rehabilitation Act Reauthorization

Letter from the CCD Employment Task Force to Sens. Enzi and Murray regarding Reauthorization of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

2/11/2003

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) Reauthorization

CCD letter to Representatives urging them to vote "No" on HR 4, the "Personal Responsibility, Work, and Family Promotion Act of 2003."

AUCD Joins RAISE Family Caregivers Act Letter

AUCD joined other disability organizations by signing on to a letter in support of the Recognize, Assist, Include, Support and Engage (RAISE) Act being considered in separate House and Senate bills.

Aucd signed onto a Letter in Support of Clarifying Regulations for Title I of the Every Student Succeeds Act

AUCD signed onto a letter urging the Department of Education to issue strong regulations that clarify how school districts must demonstrate compliance with the "supplement, not supplant" requirement in Title I of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

CCD Response to Request for Comments Regarding ESSA Implementation

The CCD issued its response to the Department of Education's request for advice and recommendations concerning the implementation of programs under Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, recently reauthorized as the Every Student Succeeds Act. The CCD urges the Department to strengthen state accountability systems, establish a stronger definition for the "Students with Disabilities" subgroup, and provide new regulations and guidance concerning Alternate Academic Achievement Standards (AAAS).

CCD Response to Request for Comments Regarding ESSA Implementation

The CCD issued its response to the Department of Education's request for advice and recommendations concerning the implementation of programs under Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, recently reauthorized as the Every Student Succeeds Act. The CCD urges the Department to strengthen state accountability systems, establish a stronger definition for the "Students with Disabilities" subgroup, and provide new regulations and guidance concerning Alternate Academic Achievement Standards (AAAS).

Letter to Washington Post Editor Related to Proposed Cuts in Medicaid

AUCD Board President, Daniel Crimmins, PhD, submitted a letter to the Editor of the Washington Post related to concerns over proposed cuts to Medicaid as a means toward balancing the budget.

Thank you letter to S. Durbin for Autism Treatment Acceleration Act of 2009

AUCD's thank you letter to Senator Durbin (D-CA) for his introduction of the Autism Acceleration Act of 2009.