NATIONAL DOWN SYNDROME CONGRESS

Lobbied for increase funding for the Individual with Disabilities Education Act and the Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities.

Urged Congress to pass Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act (S.1332/H.R.2941) which would require the Office of Management and Budget to establish a separate category within the Standard Occupational Classification system for direct support professionals (i.e., individuals who provide services to promote independence in individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability) for data reporting purposes. SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, HCBS Relief Act, Eliminating Marriage Penalty in SSI Act (EMPSA)

Urged Congress to pass the Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act (S.533/H.R. 1263) which would phase out the use of subminimum certificates for people with disabilities. We also sent recommendations to the House and Senate for a reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

We urge Congress to pass the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act (H.R. 5408/S.2767) which would update asset limit in the Supplemental Security Income program.

We urged Congress to pass the H.R.3380 - HEADs UP Act of 2023 which would authorize the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to award grants to support health centers that provide services for individuals with developmental disabilities, including dental care. Grant recipients must provide specialized treatment to individuals with developmental disabilities as necessary. Advocated and lobbied for the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Act.