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About Policy & Advocacy

AUCD is committed to protecting and enhancing the civil rights of people with disabilities across the lifespan. The University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) Programs, and Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Centers (IDDRC) have direct impact across all levels of government in advancing policy and practice. Current federal policy and advocacy activities have significant impacts on ensuring access to services and supports for people with disabilities and their families.

Engage with AUCD's Policy and Advocacy Activities

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Be a part of the action. Join the Public Policy Committee, subscribe to Disability Policy News, listen to the latest episode of "Tuesdays with Liz" and much more. 

Learn more about disability by state and territory by viewing AUCD's State Profiles. 

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Contact the AUCD Policy Team

Related News

July 15, 2025

NEW Grassroots Action Tool: Protect UCEDDs

Dark blue graphic with a light blue banner at the top that reads "ACTION ALERT" in bold capital letters. Below, white text says: "Use AUCD's new grassroots action tool to send a message to lawmakers, share your message on social media, and tell your friends why we must protect the independence of the UCEDDs!" Bolded white text follows: "Take 2 minutes to act!" Below that is the URL: aucd.quorum.us/campaign/133226 At the bottom left is an illustration of an orange megaphone with lightning bolts. On the bottom right is a QR code and the AUCD logo with the text "Association of University Centers on Disabilities."

UCEDDs have been advancing disability rights for over 60 years—but now they’re at risk. The FY26 budget proposal would eliminate UCEDDs as independent programs, threatening services for people with disabilities, research and training, federal partnerships, and compliance with the DD Act. AUCD has launched an easy-to-use grassroots action tool for individuals, families, professionals, and allies to contact Congress and demand full funding for UCEDDs. More

July 8, 2025

Speak Up for UCEDDs

Graphic from AUCD (Association of University Centers on Disabilities) with the message “Speak Up for UCEDDs!” in large, bold text. It encourages people to contact their Senators and Representatives to protect UCEDDs. The background features a photo of a group of young adults with disabilities wearing graduation caps and gowns, holding diplomas and smiling. A large yellow arrow on the right side suggests taking action.

AUCD is calling on its community to help share why keeping UCEDDs independent is important for the disability community. More

July 3, 2025

Medicaid and Home and Community Based Services: Family Stories of Impact

Baby Noah wearing oxygen and a helmet.

Families across New Hampshire depend on Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) to support loved ones with developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities. These personal stories show how HCBS empowers individuals to live with dignity, participate in their communities, and build meaningful, connected lives. More

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