If you are using Firefox or a supportive browser, you can click here to open an autogenerated email to contact your members of Congress and ask them to protect essential programs and services for people with disabilities.
Copy and paste the text below to use this email template to contact your members of Congress and ask them to protect essential programs and services for people with disabilities. Your outreach can make a real difference in ensuring continued support for access, independence, and community living. Every email counts.
Subject: RE: Proposed Cuts to ACL Disability Programs and Services
Body: I am concerned about cuts to many programs under the Administration for Community Living (ACL).
ACL was created in 2012 and had support from both parties. It improved support for older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers. The proposed budget plan to move or eliminate ACL programs would undo that progress. These cuts would impact vital supports for people with disabilities, their families, and caregivers.
Programs at risk include:
- Protection & Advocacy Systems investigate abuse and neglect in institutions and provide legal services in cases of disability discrimination.
- Developmental Disabilities Councils fund community programs that promote self-advocacy and community participation for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities provide research, training, and technical assistance on issues impacting people with developmental disabilities across the lifespan.
- National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research funds important disability research and community education to promote equal access. It also funds regional Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) centers (the ADA National Network).
- Other programs at risk provide assistive technology, family caregiver respite, senior nutrition programs like Meals on Wheels, and resources and support for those with traumatic brain injury and paralysis.
Ending these programs is a threat to the Americans with Disabilities Act’s goal of equal opportunities and access. Community-based disability services are cost-effective and reduce Medicaid and Medicare expenditures.
We ask you to reject any budget proposal that cuts ACL’s programs. Protect funding for disability research, education, and support. Support people with disabilities living independently and contributing fully to their communities.
Thank you for your support of the disability community.
Sincerely, Your Name