Advocacy and Resources for Citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities

WOW!! great job, this is a wonderful news! Here is the new legislation that protects people from 18 to 59 years old that suffer from abuse or are neglected. Many of us voted for this change. This is history! Well Done!!

Another great news: as many of you know we are under the umbrella of the ARC of NEPA.
The name ARC, until few weeks ago, stood for Association for Retarded Citizens of the United States.
Now, they have changed their name, not for the first time, but always trying to adapt to the changes made due to the impact that words have in people's lives:


Advocacy and Resources for Citizens with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and their families.



This is a great improvement in the law that tries to protect and give the same rights to people with intellectual and developmental challenges. Our children are facing a better future thanks to families like you.



Here is the law that made this possible:
Senate Passes Rosa's Law! Critical First Step in Removing Term "Mental Retardation"

Last week, the Senate passed Rosa’s Law, legislation that would remove the term “Mental Retardation” from all federal laws and replace it with the more commonly used term “Intellectual Disability.” CEC has long supported this legislation in the Senate and will now shift its efforts to advocating for its passage in the House.

Rosa’s law is named after Rosa Marcellino, a Maryland girl with Down syndrome. Similar legislation proposed in the House is known as the Elizabeth A. Connelly Act in honor of a former member of the New York Assembly who was influential in pushing for services for those with disabilities. The bills are the same, except for their namesakes.

It is important to point out that this change would not alter the eligibility requirements for any services and supports. It would, however, ensure that current language in all legislation impacting this group of individuals was consistent. CEC believes that replacing antiquated terminology with more common and accurate language is an important and respectful step for people with disabilities.

As this legislation now moves to the House, CEC encourages you to contact your Representative and urge them to co-sponsor this important legislation. Find your elected official by entering your zip code into CEC’s Legislative Action Center and tell them why this is important to you.