New Op-Ed in Albany Times Union: How will the Trump administration advance disability rights?
A new piece by CPU President and CEO Joseph M. Pancari outlines a strategic plan for boosting the disability community via broader, nationwide support.
From the article, published on December 3, 2024:
As the nation prepares for a demonstrable shift in leadership, people with disabilities are asking: What about us?
One in four Americans is living with a disability. But we have heard little about the ways the new administration would advance disability rights and access during Donald Trump’s second time behind the Resolute Desk.
To do so would be relatively straightforward, as there is much to build on already: America is a leader in disability services and solutions, and we recently marked the 34th anniversary of the landmark passage of the Americans with Disability Act. Under the law, every public space must have accommodations for wheelchairs, and people with disabilities are afforded equal status and provided specific protections around hiring, housing and transportation.
Another sign of progress occurred in March, when the Senate unanimously passed legislation that qualifies the profession charged with providing daily assistance, direct support professionals, as its own standard occupational classification, making this contingent unique amongst other health care workers. Now it is up to the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the parallel Direct Support Professionals Act (H.R. 2941).
The wish of the provider community for the next four years is a broadened panorama of services and supports. The shared goal is to provide as many opportunities as possible for those with disabilities to achieve fulfilling lives. At Constructive Partnerships Unlimited, we see daily the challenges experienced by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the heroic work of our dedicated team who empower their success. We also know the frustrations when vacancies increase, both in terms of open beds and available positions that go unfilled.
