Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 13hWe invite you to read the new Slice of PIE newsletter! Produced by our grantee The Arc of Pennsylvania, it features national and Pennsylvania policy issues that impact people with disabilities and their families! Newsletter is here: www.paddc.org/slice-of-pie... 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 13hIt's National Disability Employment Awareness Month! We value and celebrate the talent of people with disabilities as they contribute to their workplaces and the workforce. #NDEAM2026 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 15/09/2026Governors of 18 states, including Pennsylvania, are calling on the U.S. Department of Justice to abandon efforts to weaken the rights of people with disabilities to access services in the community. www.disabilityscoop.com/2026/09/15/g...disabilityscoop.comGovernors Line Up Against Bid To Scale Back Community-Based ServicesLeaders of 18 states are calling on the U.S. Department of Justice to abandon efforts to weaken the rights of people with disabilities to access services in the community. 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 14/09/2026It's Disability Voting Rights Week! Below are great voting resources from our sister agencies: - Pennsylvania Voter Resources from @iodtempleu.bsky.social : disabilities.temple.edu/resources/pe... - Election 2026 from DisabilityRights PA: www.disabilityrightspa.org/election2025/ #DisabilityVoters 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 01/09/2026Be sure to have a look at our September Spotlight! So much news, resources, and events to share! If you haven't found it in your email, goo here for the September 2026 issue: www.paddc.org/publications... 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 01/09/2026The PA Education Law Center has released its (updated) Back to School Guide 2026/2027. It includes new publications and updated information on multiple education topics to help students, families, and child-serving professionals. www.elc-pa.org/2026-27-back...elc-pa.org2026-27 Back to School Guide for Students and Families | Education Law Center - PAThe Education Law Center-PA (ELC-PA) has updated our annual Back to School Guide with new publications and updated information on multiple education topics to help students, families, and child-serving professionals. 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 20/08/2026"What's here when we're not here?" He said these questions remind him of how important it is for his children to get the services they need now to build independence for whatever the future holds. www.npr.org/2026/08/20/n...npr.orgThey grew up with disability rights. Now, they're fighting to keep themSiblings Cody and Kaleigh Brendle have grown up with the right to community integration. Now, they worry those protections for people with disabilities like them are being eroded. 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 20/08/2026Council applauds the Governor & his administration for the public affirmation of, "... its commitment to ensure the choices and freedoms of Pennsylvanians with disabilities are protected so they can live, work, and participate fully in their chosen community..." www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs...pa.govIn Wake of Recent Federal Action, Shapiro Administration Reaffirms Commitment to Serving and Protecting Pennsylvanians with DisabilitiesIn Wake of Recent Federal Action, Shapiro Administration Reaffirms Commitment to Serving and Protecting Pennsylvanians with Disabilities 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 28/07/2026The summer SLICE of PIE Newsletter is online! Read all about what's going on in Pennsylvania and nationally regarding disability policy issues. ⬇️ www.paddc.org/slice-of-pie... 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 23/07/2026Pennsylvania’s Part C Infant and Toddler Early Intervention program received the highest rating from the U.S. Department of Education. Read more here: www.elrc5.alleghenycounty.us/news/us-dept... #Pennsylvania #EarlyIntervention #Disabilities 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 19/07/2026On July 20, 2026, the Dept. of Justice will publish a Federal Register notice stating it will not rely on Olmstead Guidance to enforce ADA Title II, saying such guidance is not enforceable. Read the notice here: www.federalregister.gov/documents/20... 021
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 08/07/2026Governor Josh Shapiro announced his 28 appointments to the newly established Governor’s Advisory Commission on People with Disabilities. www.pa.gov/governor/new... #Disabilities #Pennsylvaniapa.govGov Shapiro Makes Appointments to New Commission on People with DisabilitiesGov Shapiro Makes Appointments to New Commission on People with Disabilities 021
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 03/07/2026We are proud to work alongside our partners and in strong coalitions. Together, we advocate for every person’s right to live independently, make their own choices, have control over their own lives and fully participate in community life. 031
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 03/07/2026The history of disability in the United States is a 250-year crawl from confinement to community. www.newamerica.org/insights/dis...newamerica.orgDisability in the United States at 250A timeline of U.S. disability history and a reflection on its resonance as the nation turns 250. 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 01/07/2026July marks Disability Pride Month, honoring the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This month highlights the important message: people with disabilities should be seen, valued, & included just as they are. Disabled people must be afforded the rights & access of all other citizens. 010
Reposted by Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC)NPR @npr.org · 20/06/2026Federal law requires most museums and other buildings to be accessible to people with disabilities. But access to what's actually inside is often still limited.n.prAs America turns 250, one museum makes history possible to touchFederal law requires most museums and other buildings to be accessible to people with disabilities. But access to what's actually inside is often still limited. 322648
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 19/06/2026@aapd.com has issued an alert that the Dept. of Justice’s Office of Legal Counsel believes the Olmstead decision doesn't require services for people with disabilities be provided in community integrated settings. www.aapd.com/aapd-horrifi... #Disabilities #CommunityIntegration #Olmsteadaapd.comDOJ Memo Is Attempting to Turn Back the Clock on Integration and Olmstead’s Promise - AAPDFor Immediate Release: June 18, 2026 Contact: Jess Davidson, jdavidson@aapd.com; 202-465-5528 WASHINGTON – Today, just days before the 27th anniversary of the landmark Olmstead v. LC decision, the Am... 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 18/06/2026At Philadelphia's National Constitution Center has begun offering guided tactile tours aimed at blind and low vision visitors in a gallery called "Signers' Hall." www.npr.org/2026/06/18/n...npr.orgAs America turns 250, one museum makes history possible to touchFederal law requires most museums and other buildings to be accessible to people with disabilities. But access to what's actually inside is often still limited. 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 16/06/2026Oversight of Special Education and Civil Rights has been moved to other agencies from the U.S. Department of Education. apnews.com/article/trum... #SpecialEducation #CivilRightsapnews.comTrump moves oversight of special education and civil rights out of the Education DepartmentPresident Donald Trump’s administration is further dismantling the Department of Education, moving oversight of special education and civil rights to other agencies. 001
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 01/06/2026Be sure to check out the PADDC June Spotlight, in your inbox this morning or you can read it here: www.paddc.org/publications... 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 14/05/2026Reminder! We're seeking nominations to Council from private nonprofit organizations. Our Council, as all others, has federal requirements for membership. We have an open seat for a private non-profit organization. See qualifications and download nomination form here: www.paddc.org/organization... 020
Reposted by Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC)Disability Belongs ® @disabilitybelongs.bsky.social · 12/05/2026Find more tips in our resource: Mental Health Disabilities Are Real – And Employers Have a Role to Play in Fostering Inclusion. Image Description: Disability Belongs trademarked logo with green and blue overlapping droplet shapes and text to the right.disabilitybelongs.orgMental Health Disabilities Are Real – And Employers Have a Role to Play in Fostering Inclusion - Disability Belongs™Mental health conditions are real. They are valid. They are disabilities. Let's move beyond awareness and into action. 001
Reposted by Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC)ADA National Network @adata.org · 12/05/2026A new tactile museum tour let blind and low-vision visitors decode history with their hands. Read more from Disability Scoop here: www.disabilityscoop.com/2026/05/06/… #Blind #LowVision #Accessibilitydisabilityscoop.comTactile Museum Tour Lets Blind And Low-Vision Visitors Decode History With Their HandsAt the National Constitution Center, a touch tour is offering the chance to feel bronze statues of the nation's founders to pick up on their age, status and demeanor through touch. 032
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 12/05/2026Learn more about "DD Councils" and what we do! 010
Reposted by Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC)Institute on Disabilities @iodtempleu.bsky.social · 08/05/2026Free virtual talk on sex, disability, and assistive technology for all who care about accessibility and sexuality May 21, 12 - 1:30 pm Topics - Sex & Disability Foundations + Intro to Assistive Devices for Pleasure & Sexual Health temple.zoom.us/meeting/regi... Questions? iodhsp@temple.edu 111
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 27/04/2026We are seeking nominations for representation on Council for a Pennsylvania, private nonprofit organization. Please read about it and find the application at: www.paddc.org/organization... #Pennsylvania #Disabilities #NonprofitOrganizations 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 23/04/2026New wheelchair prototype allows wheelchair users to navigate common daily challenges: scaling sidewalks without curb cuts, maneuvering uneven terrain, opening doors and even carrying a beverage. www.pittwire.pitt.edu/features-art... #Disabilities #Pennsylaniapittwire.pitt.eduThe next generation of wheelchairs can navigate curbs and hold beveragesHERL researchers debuted a prototype that integrates advanced robotics, sensing and embodied artificial intelligence to empower wheelchair users to navigate common daily challenges. 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 15/04/2026Pennsylvania’s youngest learners are expelled or excluded from preschools at alarming rates — often because of disabilities — an illegal practice challenging families and can cause children long-term harm", according a new report from @edlawcenterpa.bsky.social hanfordsentinel.com/news/nationa...hanfordsentinel.comDisabled children are being kicked out of Pa. preschools at alarming rates, report findsPHILADELPHIA — One preschooler with autism and ADHD was excluded from a Philadelphia early childhood program two hours after her parents dropped her off for her first day because the 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 14/04/2026New speaker announced for the upcoming The Arc of Pennsylvania Disability Health Action Summit! Keynote speaker for May 19 is Theo Braddy! He is the Executive Director of The National Council on Independent Living and Pennsylvania's own. More: thearcpa.org/event/2026-d... #Disability #Pennsylvania 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 13/04/2026There is legislation moving to the #Pennsylvania House that is designed to prevent wrongful convictions. It calls for limiting the use of deceptive interrogation tactics on individuals with intellectual #disabilities and autism. northpennnow.com/news/2026/ap...northpennnow.comLegislation to prohibit deceptive interrogation practices for individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism advances | NorthPennNowHouse Bill 1247 in the House Judiciary Committee prohibits law enforcement from knowingly using deception during custodial interrogations 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 13/04/2026The new Slice of PIE policy newsletter is now online! The newsletter is produced by our Policy Information Exchange grantee - The Arc of Pennsylvania thearcofpa.bsky.social Link to newsletter: www.paddc.org/slice-of-pie... 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 10/04/2026Researchers are reporting that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have higher rates of anxiety and depression than the general population of adults. Yet, they receive less care and treatment. www.news-medical.net/news/2026022...news-medical.netAdults with intellectual and developmental disabilities face severe mental health disparitiesAdults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, such as autism and Down syndrome, experience substantially higher rates of anxiety and depression than the general population of adults, resear... 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 09/04/2026According to one researchers the evidence reviewed, "suggests that reducing federal monitoring or restructuring IDEA funding could weaken protections for students with disabilities and put service quality at risk, especially for the children with the greatest needs” www.ednc.org/3-2-2026-dis...ednc.orgDismantling Department of Education could worsen inequities for students with disabilities, researchers saySpecial education students could face worsening services under a gutted Department of Education, according to the Education Law Center. 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 24/03/2026📆 Just a few days to share your input on the draft goals and objectives for our 2027-2031 State Plan. Before the plan is finalized, we're seeking public comments to ensure we are considering a variety of viewpoints. We invite you to take our survey by March 27, 2026! www.paddc.org/draft-plan/ 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 18/03/2026We’re excited to share a new report: “Two Years of Stories and Outcomes: Office of Developmental Programs Intellectual Disability/Autism (ID/A) Supportive Housing Pilot”. The Council supported the pilot in may ways, including creating this report. Read the report: www.paddc.org/supportiveho... 020
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 04/03/2026The #Pennsylvania Capitol Building now has a FULLY accessible public restroom with: a lift track system and hoist; an adult-rated changing table with adjustable height; an easy-raise, assisted-lift toilet seat; and a height adjustable sink. #Accessibility www.mychesco.com/a/news/penns...mychesco.comNew Accessible Restroom Opens at Pa. Capitol Complex - MyChesCoHARRISBURG, PA — Visitors with intellectual or physical disabilities now have access to a specialized accessible restroom at the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex, a new facility designed to better a... 020
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 03/03/2026A big THANK YOU to Governor Josh Shapiro for issuing a proclamation for March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Pennsylvania!! Read it here: home.myodp.org/2026/03/02/m... #DDAM #WeReHere #ThenNowAlways 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 02/03/2026It’s Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month! The theme from @nacdd.bsky.social National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities is: “We’re Here. Then, Now, Always.” — reminds us that people with developmental disabilities were, are and always will be part of our communities. #DDAM 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 21/02/2026Congratulations to Pittsburgh Airport for its certification in Universal Design! www.travelpulse.com/news/airline... #Pennsylvania #Pittsburgh #Accessibility #UniversalDesigntravelpulse.comPittsburgh Airport Becomes First to Achieve Universal Design CertificationPIT has become the first airport to be given the Universal Design Certification from the University of Buffalo. 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 13/02/2026📣We are in need of public comments on the proposed goals and objectives for our next 5-year plan (2027-2031). Please take the survey and share your perspective. Find out about it on our website page at: www.paddc.org/draft-plan/ #Pennsylvania #Disabilities 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 09/02/2026Help spread the word! PADDC LEAF Scholarships offer self-advocates and parents up to $750 to attend leadership, education, or self-advocacy events between Feb. 1 and March 31. Don’t miss this chance to learn, grow, and lead. Find application details on our website: www.paddc.org/grant-fundin... 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 08/02/2026Celimar Rivera Cosme, a Puerto Rican Deaf performer, will interpret today’s Super Bowl halftime show. For the Puerto Rican Deaf community, her presence on one of the world’s biggest stages signals progress and hope for more inclusive experiences across society. www.ktvu.com/news/deaf-re... 000
Reposted by Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC)Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 02/02/2026Have you heard? The LEAF Scholarship Program is open for a limited time! Scholarships support people with disabilities & their family members in #Pennsylvania to attend conferences & trainings on disability topics. Apply for events taking place between 2/1/26 - 3/31/26. www.paddc.org/grant-fundin... 001
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 06/02/2026Public Comment Needed! Before finalizing PADDC’s new 5-Year Plan, we want your input to ensure the plan reflects a variety of viewpoints. Please review the draft and complete our survey by March 27, 2026. Thank you for supporting PADDC’s work! Learn more and share feedback: www.paddc.org/draft-plan/ 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 02/02/2026Have you heard? The LEAF Scholarship Program is open for a limited time! Scholarships support people with disabilities & their family members in #Pennsylvania to attend conferences & trainings on disability topics. Apply for events taking place between 2/1/26 - 3/31/26. www.paddc.org/grant-fundin... 001
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 31/01/2026Last week’s severe cold and snow in #Pennsylvania exposed how emergencies put people with #disabilities at risk. Many direct care workers rely on public transit due to low wages—and that, too, was disrupted. Emergency and disaster planning is essential! triblive.com/local/region...triblive.comSnowstorm highlights staffing struggles of Southwestern Pa. home care agenciesPerhaps no part of the health care system in Southwestern Pennsylvania faced greater challenges during Sunday’s snowstorm than already understaffed home care agencies. Their task was monumental:... 010
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 19/01/2026"It is not possible to be in favor of justice for some people but not in favor of justice for all people." Martin Luther King, Jr. 000
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 16/01/2026How exciting that the City of Philadelphia has announced its new Accessibility Plan requirement for special events! Now, when applying for a special event permit from the City, event organizers must submit an #Accessibility Plan. www.phila.gov/2026-01-15-n...phila.govNew Accessibility Plan Requirement for Special Events! | Office for People with DisabilitiesOfficial website of the City of Philadelphia, includes information on municipal services, permits, licenses, and records for citizens and businesses. 073
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Coucil (PADDC) @paddc.bsky.social · 06/01/2026This article highlights a problem still affecting families and children across Pennsylvania. That’s why PADDC funded projects that promote practices to disrupt the suspensions and expulsions in early care or education. Read the story from Disability Scoop: www.disabilityscoop.com/2026/01/06/a... 000