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Together We Stand: Supporting ACL and Our Communities
The dismantling of the Administration for Community Living (ACL) was announced last week. It is unfortunately not a surprise given other recent policy changes. People with disabilities and elderly people are particularly vulnerable in our society. Thanks to the ACL, there have been innovations and improvements to community-based services. This has enabled so many disabled […]
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Medicaid: Understanding the Past to Inform the Future
People are talking a lot about potential Medicaid changes. This includes whether the federal government might give less money for it in the future. In New Jersey, people with disabilities need Medicaid to get important help from DDD services. Even though many people have protested and told the government, “No Cuts, No Caps” and “Hands […]
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Honoring the Anniversary of the Capital Crawl
As we celebrate 20 years of Values Into Action, we are reflecting on the pivotal events that came before us. Also, the opportunities to inform policy that are ahead. The Capitol Crawl: A Tribute to Disability Rights Activists On March 12, 1990, a pivotal moment in the fight for disability rights unfolded on the steps […]
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New Jerseyans, Vote on Nov. 5th!
As Americans, there are few things we can do that are more important than voting in elections. We all have an important duty in early November. We must all take the time and make our voice heard by casting our vote on November 5th. To make sure you can take part, it is important to […]
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Employment First in NJ
Did you know that New Jersey is an “Employment First” state? “Employment First” means that competitive employment is the recommended first activity after graduation. This is true for everyone, including people with disabilities. ‘Employment First’ is about empowering people with choices for their future. With opportunities for employment comes questions about how it could affect […]
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Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Access Act
S.762 – Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Access Act Introduced by Senator Bob Casey 3/09/2023. Why is HCBS Access Act Important? There are many older adults and people with disabilities living in America who need help with daily activities. Many are eligible for Medicaid long-term services and supports (LTSS) to support their everyday needs. […]
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Voting in the NJ Primary Election
Are you ready to vote in NJ’s 2023 primary election on June 6th? Q. What is a primary election? A. The primary election is where registered voters can choose their party’s candidate. The winning candidates will go up in the general election in November. Q. Why are primary elections important? A. Primaries are how we […]
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Ending Subminimum Wages
Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act (TCIEA) H.R. 1263 introduced February 28, 2023 by Representative Bobby Scott (VA – Democrat) And S.B. 533 introduced February 27, 2023 by Senator Casey (PA – Democrat) Background Many Americans still work in places where there are only people with disabilities, and they earn less than minimum wage. This […]
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Students RISE to Higher Education
Purpose of Proposed Legislature: Providing students with disabilities better access to accommodations in Higher Education. Background: There is concern about how accessible universities are to students with disabilities. Universities and colleges need current documentation of disabilities for students to receive accommodations. They do not accept IEP and 504 plans from K-12 education. S.2550, the RISE […]