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The Arc of Massachusetts

@thearcofmass.org
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Enhancing the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through advocacy of community supports and services. #AchieveWithUs linktr.ee/thearcofmass

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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 04/08/2026
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is currently developing policies regarding the use of cameras in group homes. To ensure these policies reflect the needs and perspectives of those they affect most, DDS and The Arc of Massachusetts are collaborating to host
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is currently developing policies regarding the use of cameras in group homes. To ensure these policies reflect the needs and perspectives of those they affect most, DDS and The Arc of Massachusetts are collaborating to host a virtual Town Hall specifically for families.
This session is an opportunity for you to share your feedback, voice your concerns, and ask questions directly to DDS leadership. Your input is vital to this process.
To reach a wide audience, we are hosting two identical Zoom sessions:
- Tuesday, September 15, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
- Tuesday, September 15, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Register for these sessions at https://thearcofmass.org/webinars
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 01/08/2026
TWO WEEKS LEFT: Early bird pricing for The Arc's 2026 Transition Conference ends on August 15. Until August 15, general admission (without CEUs) is $95. After August 15, prices will increase to $125. Don't miss out on early bird pricing. Secure your spot today at thearcofmass.org/conference
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 31/07/2026
NEW: Nora Bent is just leaving the State House now, and unfortunately, we have to share the disappointing news that neither the Healthcare Standards nor Tommy's Law amendments to the Primary Care bill were accepted.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 30/07/2026
NEW: Nora Bent speaks with Representative Christine Barber about The Arc's Healthcare Standards priority. Take action NOW for this amendment and Tommy's Law: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/167...
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 30/07/2026
NEW: CEO Maura Sullivan speaks with Representative Sean Garballey about The Arc's Healthcare Standards priority. Take action NOW for this amendment and Tommy's Law: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/167...
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 30/07/2026
NEW: Nora Bent is back at the State House this morning for another full day of advocacy - and here's what you need to know. ✅ Exciting news on vital protections secured in the PROTECT Act ✅ A reminder: only a few hours left to take action here: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/167...
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 29/07/2026
BREAKING: Nora Bent is back from the State House with an URGENT call to action. We have LESS THAN 24 HOURS to take action for Healthcare Standards and Tommy's Law. This may be our last opportunity for this legislative session to advance these priorities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 29/07/2026
NEW: It's all hands on deck for the Government Affairs team at the State House this week! It's the end of the formal session on July 31... but what does that mean? How does that shape our work, this week and beyond?
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 26/07/2026
NEW: CEO Maura Sullivan reflects on the 36th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - including how far we have come, the progress we have made, and how much further we have to go - and why we need you to stand alongside us more than ever.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 21/06/2026
Happy Father's Day to all of the incredible dads in The Arc of Massachusetts community!
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 19/06/2026
On top of the Trump Administration’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education, the Department of Justice has issued a legal memo that attacks the core right of disabled people to live independently in their communities.
On top of the Trump Administration’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education, the Department of Justice has issued a legal memo that attacks the core right of disabled people to live independently in their communities.

It claims that long-standing federal laws (the ADA and Section 504) never actually guaranteed disabled people the right to receive services in the community instead of institutions.

It tries to hollow out Olmstead v. L.C. – the landmark Supreme Court ruling securing community living rights – just days before its 27th anniversary.

It declares decades of federal disability regulations “unlawful,” signaling that the government plans to roll them back. This gives states a green light to defund community services and push people with severe mental illness or disabilities back into institutions.

This memo changes how the federal government enforces the law – meaning the DOJ will stop fighting for integration. However, the ADA itself has not changed and federal courts are still bound by Supreme Court precedent. We know that our leaders in Massachusetts will stand with us.

For nearly 75 years, The Arc has fought against the isolation and institutionalization of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We fought for the ADA, we fought for Olmstead, and we will fight to protect them today.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 16/06/2026
Today, the Trump administration dismantled the foundations of educational equity. By stripping the Department of Education of its authority over the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services and the Office for Civil Rights,
Today, the Trump administration dismantled the foundations of educational equity.

By stripping the Department of Education of its authority over the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services and the Office for Civil Rights, they have gutted the critical oversight that protects students with disabilities.

This is not a reorganization; it is an abandonment of the laws and expertise designed to ensure every child has access to an equal education.

The Arc will continue to work with our national partners to fight for the educational rights of students with disabilities.

Here in Massachusetts, we must strengthen special education services and compliance with Individualized Education Plans as we navigate changes to the systems of oversight and appeal.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 16/06/2026
We have a full slate of webinars this month at The Arc, covering topics including legislative advocacy, succession planning, autism policy, and Turning 22. Can't make it live? Register and you'll receive a recording. Register: thearcofmass.org/webinars
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 22/05/2026
NEW: The results from Senate Budget week are here. Here's a quick summary of what you need to know. Read more: thearcofmass.org/post/fy27-state-bu…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 22/05/2026
ICYMI: This week, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed The Arc's priority Blue Envelope bill! Learn more: thearcofmass.org/post/massachusetts…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 14/05/2026
The Arc of Massachusetts is proud to hold a Mobile Crisis Training Symposium focused on adults with autism. This idea came directly from our Government Affairs Committee, who shared their own experiences about adults with profound autism,
Flyer for Responding to Adults with Autism: A Mobile Crisis Training Symposium
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 13/05/2026
ACT NOW: Nearly 500 of you have taken action so far. Let's keep it going! Ask your Senator to cosponsor The Arc's FY27 Senate budget amendments. TAKE ACTION: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/162...
ACT NOW 📣

Ask your State Senator to cosponsor The Arc of Massachusetts’ FY27 Senate budget amendments supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism.

As the Senate debates the state budget, advocacy is more important than ever — especially amid looming federal funding cuts. These amendments help protect critical services and strengthen support for our community.

Your voice makes a difference. Contact your Senator today and urge them to support The Arc’s amendment priorities.

Questions? Contact nbent@arcmass.org
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 11/05/2026
ACT NOW: The next phase of state budget advocacy is here and we need you to take action again. Contact your Senator and ask them to cosponsor The Arc's FY27 Senate budget amendments: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/162...
TAKE ACTION

Ask Your Senator to Cosponsor The Arc's FY27 Senate Budget Amendments

Amendment #710: DESE/DDS Residential Placement Prevention Program (Filed by Sen. Kennedy)
Amendment #816: Operation House Call (Filed by Sen. Lewis)
Amendment #442: Workforce Training Funds for Complex, Challenging Behaviors (Filed by Sen. Keenan)
Amendment #499: Adult Foster Care (Filed by Sen. Jehlen)

There are also two policy amendments that we are supporting:

Amendment #504: Tommy’s Bill (filed by Sen. O’Connor)
Amendment #646: Alternative and Augmentative Communication Professional Development (filed by Sen. O’Connor)

thearcofmass.org/action
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 08/05/2026
SAVE THE DATE! The Arc of Massachusetts will be hosting our 2026 Transition Conference - Transition Journeys 2026: Tools for Today, Hope for Tomorrow - on Saturday, October 24. Visit thearcofmass.org/conference to learn more - and stay tuned: registration opens soon!
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 07/05/2026
NEW: The Senate Ways and Means FY27 State Budget Proposal is here. Here's what you need to know. Read the full analysis and see the budget charts here: thearcofmass.org/post/the-arc-of-ma…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 06/05/2026
Over 550 of you have contacted your Senator in support of Amendment #6 (DDS Facilities) to the PROTECT Act. Let's keep the momentum going. We have one more day to take action. ACT NOW AND SHARE: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/162...
Wow! In less than 24 hours, over 550 of you have taken action to support Amendment #6 to the PROTECT Act. Let's keep it up! Contact your Senator and spread the word.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 05/05/2026
Happy Teacher Appreciation Day from The Arc of Massachusetts! Our incredible self-advocate co-teachers and parent instructors in Operation House Call are changing the future of healthcare for people with IDD and autism. Over 8,000 future medical professionals trained - and counting!
Four photos of self-advocates with disabilities, parents, and medical students with HAPPY TEACHER APPRECIATION DAY! across the middle
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 05/05/2026
𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘-𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘: 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗔𝗖𝗧 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗢𝗥 𝗕𝗘𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗨𝗥𝗦𝗗𝗔𝗬 The Arc has worked closely with Senator Robyn Kennedy to file Amendment #6 to the PROTECT ACT, which would add DDS-licensed facilities and Day Habilitation programs as “sensitive spaces” where ICE is unable to access without a warrant.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 30/04/2026
#ICYMI: The results of House budget week are in. Here's what you need to know. Read our full recap: thearcofmass.org/post/fy27-state-bu…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 16/04/2026
Today, the House Ways and Means Committee unveiled its FY27 budget proposal, following the Governor's version which was released in January. Our team is currently conducting a thorough analysis of the proposal to determine the impact on our community.
Today, the House Ways and Means Committee unveiled its FY27 budget proposal, following the Governor's version which was released in January. Our team is currently conducting a thorough analysis of the proposal to determine the impact on our community.

Our initial assessment is that while the proposal includes vital investments, gaps remain that will demand powerful advocacy. As the House prepares for debate, your voice will be critical. 

Stand by for our full briefing and amendment priorities - we are ready for the work ahead. Make sure you are signed up for our action alerts to stay engaged with upcoming advocacy opportunities!

thearcofmass.org/action
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 14/04/2026
ICYMI: CEO Maura Sullivan's new editorial for MassLive discusses how HBO Max's #ThePitt shines a light on "how far our actual medical system is from the 'gold standard' portrayed on screen" when it comes to care and accommodations for people with autism.
ICYMI: CEO Maura Sullivan's new editorial for MassLive discusses how HBO Max's #ThePitt shines a light on "how far our actual medical system is from the 'gold standard' portrayed on screen" when it comes to care and accommodations for people with autism.

Read more from Maura on advancing healthcare standards, Supported Decision-Making, and more: https://www.masslive.com/opinion/2026/04/what-the-pitt-gets-right-and-where-massachusetts-health-care-falls-short-maura-sullivan.html
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 12/04/2026
Happy Orthodox Easter from The Arc of Massachusetts to all who celebrate! 🐇
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 11/04/2026
We've got a full slate of webinars coming up at The Arc, covering subjects like healthcare, the transition to adulthood, and self-direction. Learn more about these sessions and register at thearcofmass.org/webinars.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 06/04/2026
Jayden Christian is a dedicated self-advocate and an incredibly compelling speaker who shares her lived experience to advocate for individuals with IDD and autism. Learn more about Jayden: thearcofmass.org/post/advocacy-spot…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 05/04/2026
Happy Easter from The Arc of Massachusetts to all who celebrate! 🐇
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 03/04/2026
ACT NOW: Please take action and reach out to your Representative about two critical bills! The Nicky's Law Expansion bill and the Blue Envelope bill have both passed the Senate and are currently in the House Ways and Means Committee.
ACT NOW: Please take action and reach out to your Representative about two critical bills!



The Nicky's Law Expansion bill and the Blue Envelope bill have both passed the Senate and are currently in the House Ways and Means Committee.



We need to keep up the momentum and get these bills to the floor of the House for a vote!



Both bills are common sense, cost-effective, and ready to go. Use this action alert to contact your Representative today.



https://thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/159833/
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 02/04/2026
Happy World Autism Acceptance Day from The Arc of Massachusetts! Autism acceptance is more than awareness. It's a commitment to action, respect, and belonging. Today and every day, we reaffirm our belief in inclusion, dignity, and opportunities for all. 🧡
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 24/03/2026
We had a jam-packed day full of exciting meetings on Capitol Hill today, including the meeting pictured here with Senator Ed Markey. Stay tuned for more photos and a recap of our time in DC! #DPS2026
dozens of disability advocates gather in a conference room, sitting around a board style table. Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) stands at the head of the room.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 23/03/2026
The Massachusetts delegation at the 2026 Disability Policy Seminar! 🧡 #DPS2026
dozens of disability rights advocates pose for a photo in a hotel ballroom. some are seated, some are standing. a blue curtain behind them. they are all representing Massachusetts at the 2026 Disability Policy Seminar.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 23/03/2026
Tomorrow, the entire delegation of advocates from Massachusetts will take to Capitol Hill to meet with legislators and their staff, and put their advocacy learnings into practice. Stay tuned for more photos!
a crowd of hundreds of disability rights advocates seated at tables in a hotel ballroom, listening to remarks from video screens at the front of the room
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 23/03/2026
Alongside hundreds of other advocates, they are learning about important issues including Medicaid, SNAP, Social Security, self-advocacy, and more.
a crowd of hundreds of disability rights advocates seated at tables in a hotel ballroom, listening to remarks from video screens at the front of the room
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 23/03/2026
Greetings from #DPS2026! The Arc's Nora Bent and Emilia Niyangoda are in Washington, D.C. this week for the 2026 Disability Policy Seminar.
two women stand in front of a step-and-repeat poster that is orange and yellow and reads Disability Rights Are Human Rights in an all-over repeat pattern
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 21/03/2026
Happy World Down Syndrome Day from The Arc of Massachusetts! Did you know? 3/21 is World Down Syndrome Day because Down syndrome is caused by a third copy of the 21st chromosome.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Nora Bent: "To close, my call to action today is to engage and make progress together. Legislators and staff, we need you to prioritize these services and bills. Advocates, we need your passion and your stories. Your voice is essential now, more than ever." #MALegRec26
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Nora Bent: "As I look out at all of you—legislators, staff, advocates, and family members—I'm exhilarated. You’re here because you know that at this pivotal moment, advocacy is the antidote to the challenges we are facing. By coming together to advocate, you are part of the solution." #MALegRec26
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Nora Bent: "While we celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we also recognize the stakes of this moment. From federal cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and the dismantling of special education civil rights protections, it is no exaggeration to say that we are living in a frightening moment."
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Senator Joan Lovely: "this is always top budget priority for me because know how important it is to all of you. I have family members that have developmental delays, that also have benefited from the Turning 22 program,
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Senator Joan Lovely highlights the Turning 22 program and Supported Decision-Making as she begins her remarks. #MALegRec26
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Senate President Karen Spilka is now here to present Senator Joan Lovely with her Legislator of the Year award. #MALegRec26
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Representative Jay Livingstone: "The way we learn about the problems that we should be addressing is like people like you coming to us and explaining them." #MALegRec26
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Representative Jay Livingstone: "in legislation, it's a team effort. I'm honored to receive this award, but the actions that are being mentioned as part of the award are because of all of you, your advocacy in bringing us issues, your drafting of legislation." #MALegRec26
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Speaker Ronald Mariano is now here to present Representative Jay Livingstone with his Legislator of the Year award. #MALegRec26
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
The State House had been experiencing internet connection issues, but the livestream is now working! Tune in now to see the presentation of awards to our honorees and hear our call to action from The ... www.youtube.com/live/8KIIq6h4ofQ www.streamtext.net/player?event=Sta…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Planning to watch #MALegRec26 on the livestream? Follow along with this program. Livestream: www.youtube.com/live/8KIIq6h... Captions: www.streamtext.net/player?event...
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 10/03/2026
Can't join us at the State House for #MALegRec26? Tune in via our livestream beginning around 10:30AM. Livestream: www.youtube.com/live/8KIIq6h4ofQ Captions: www.streamtext.net/player?event=Sta…
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