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September 14, 2013

Compassion & Choices Remembers a Visionary in the End-of-Life Choice Movement: Paul Spiers - PRNewswire
DANVERS, Mass., Sept. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Death-with-Dignity movement suffered a great loss with the passing of former Chairman of the Compassion & Choices Board of Directors, member and dedicated friend, Paul Spiers. Paul died Wednesday in Danvers,...

Feds Tell Ohio to Cover ABA Under 'Help Me Grow' - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

Department of Education directive affects kids up to age 3

September 13, 2013

COLUMBUS (Sept. 13, 2013)-- The U.S. Department of Education has direct Ohio to provide ABA for children under age 3 through its federally supported "Help Me Grow" program, stepping into a dispute that is already the subject of litigation.

According to a report in Cincinnati.com, the online news site of the Cincinnati Enquirer,Melody Musgrove, director of the U.S. Department of Education's special education programs, issued a letter tothe Ohio Department of Health statingthat its federally supportedearly intervention services need to include applied behavior analysis (ABA).

ABA for those in the Help Me Grow program was to be made available "to any child who is considered a good candidate to receive it," according to the report.

The letter noted that"the department is monitoring the litigation in Ohio," referring to a federal complaint filed byHollyand RobertYoung after their son Roman was denied ABA coverage under theHelp Me Grow program.The Autism Speaks Legal Resource Center has assisted the plaintiffs in the case.

U.S. District Judge Michael Barrett ordered the state to resume ABA for the child until his 3rd birthday when the Young's school district would then provide the therapy.The case is still in litigation.

Help Me Grow is Ohio's birth-to-three program that provides state and federal funding toOhio's 88 county Family and Children First Councils. The county agenciesprovide home visitation services for expectant parents, newborns, infants and toddlers up to age three who have or at riskfor developmental delays or disabilities, as well as other populations. The program is administered by the state health department'sBureau of Early Intervention Services.

September 13, 2013

Power of Pain Foundation to Host 7th Annual P.A.I.N Summit Featuring Leaders from the Field of Chronic Pain Management for Pain Awareness Month - PRNewswire
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Sept. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Power of Pain Foundation, a non-profit working to provide community based services that address the needs of chronic pain patients with neuropathy conditions is hosting the 7th Annual P.A.I.N Summit. The P.A.I.N Summit is scheduled to take...

L'AVH fait sa rentrée littéraire avec Acapela - PRNewswire
PARIS, September 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Pour la première fois, les romans qui font l'actualité sont disponibles en version audio en même temps que le papier. L'AVH, l'association Valentin Haüy, au service des personnes aveugles ou malvoyantes depuis 1891, rend la...

Disability No Impediment To Miss America Glory - DisabiltyScoop
For decades, Miss America was all about beauty and "perfection," physical and otherwise. But like so much about the venerable competition taking place this weekend, this has changed.

New Law Prompts Oregon Tech To Expand ABA Courses - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

School sees new insurance coverage creating job opportunities

September 13, 2013

KLAMATH FALLS, OR(September 13, 2013) -- The Oregon Institute of Technology is expanding its graduate course offerings in applied behavior analysis (ABA) to meetthe expecteddemand for more practitioners as the state's new autism insurance reform law takes effect.

"Here is more evidence that autism insurance reform creates jobs," said Lorri Unumb, Esq, Autism Speaks' vice president for state government affairs. "State laws requiring insurance coverage of ABA makes these services affordable and accessible to more families, thereby creating demand for more ABA therapists."

Oregon Tech, which currently offers undergraduate and graduate coursework in ABA,willoffer the first two of a planned nine-course sequence of graduate courses in ABA at its Wilsonville campus starting this fall.

"These courses are designed to provide the rigorous training in ABA that will prepare professionals working in the field of autism to be ready to meet the need for well-qualified, credentialed providers," the institute said in a statement. Oregon Technowoffers a four-course undergraduate sequence that has been approved by the national Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) as meeting the coursework standards for Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBA).

The expanded offerings are a result of the enactment of SB.365, a law requiring state-regulated health plans to cover ABA, in August. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Alan Bates, a family physician from Medford.

“I am pleased that Oregon Tech has jumped on the opportunity to prepare qualified practitioners to offer these services,” saidBates.

Dr. Maria Lynn Kessler, a professor of applied psychology at Oregon Tech, saidthe Applied Psychology program willpartner with behavior analysts in the Wilsonville area tobring theirexpertise the the new course offerings.

"We look forward to meeting the workforce development needs by offering rigorous coursework in Applied Behavior Analysis to prepare professionals to provide quality services that will make a difference in the lives of children with autism,” she said.

The Oregon law, signed by Governor John Kitzhaber in August,will take effect in 2015 for public employees and 2016 for state-regulated health plans.

The new law establishes requirements for state-regulated health plans to approve and manage autism treatment, including ABA and any other medical or mental health services identified in an individualized treatment plan. To qualify, kids must begin treatment before age 9; up to 25 hours of ABA per week will be covered and continue for as long as medically necessary, regardless of age.

Existing Oregon laws require coverage of autism treatment for older patients and those seeking more than 25 hours of ABA per week.


CDC: Half Of Kids With Disabilities Skip Flu Shots - DisabiltyScoop
Despite an increased risk for complications from the flu, many children with intellectual disability, cerebral palsy and other disorders are not vaccinated to protect against the virus.
September 12, 2013

National Federation of the Blind Comments on Gun Ownership by Blind Individuals - PRNewswire

BALTIMORE, Sept.12, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In recent days there has been much discussion about whether blind individuals should be permitted to own and/or carry firearms. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120815/MM57966LOGO) The National Federation of the...



United Spinal Named Beneficiary Of Permobil's 3rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament - PRNewswire

ADVOCATING ACCESS TO CRITICAL MOBILITY EQUIPMENT FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES .@UnitedSpinal benefit, @Permobil Charity Golf Tourney, 9/20, Nashville: #Mobility & Independence for #PWD http://ow.ly/oJPRy NEW YORK, Sept. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- United Spinal...



AUCD2013 Opening Plenary: Moving from Diversity to Diversity Inclusion: A Model for Change - AUCD
Register today for AUCD2013 to hear from Dr. Joan Reede, a national authority on workforce development and diversity, as she offers a framework for organizational change.

Artist With Disability Gets Royal Treatment - DisabiltyScoop
Prince William and his wife Kate have chosen a painting from an artist with Down syndrome to display in their son's nursery.

CA State Employees Gain ABA Coverage through Court Ruling - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

Autism Speaks joins in successful appeal based on state's 2011 autism insurance reform law

September 11, 2013

LOS ANGELES (September 11, 2013) -- A California policy that allowed unlicensed but nationally board-certified ABA practitioners to provide therapy under some health plans but declared this illegal for plans covering lower-income families and state employeesis "nonsensical" and void in light of California's 2011 autism insurance reform law, a state appeals court has ruled.

The case was brought by Consumer Watchdog on behalf of state employees covered under the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) against the state Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC), which enforced the policy. The Autism Speaks Legal Resource Center, represented by Executive Director Dan Unumb, and Robert Barnes, Esq. of Kaye Scholer, intervened as a "friend of the court" on behalf of the successful plaintiffs.

“This decision is a victory for autistic children of firefighters, police officers, and low-income parents as it clarifies that they can't be treated differently than those covered under private health plans,” said Consumer Watchdog attorney Jerry Flanagan.

A trial court in early 2011 ruled against CalPERS employees, concluding that DMHC could require ABA providers to hold a state license in order to be reimbursed by health insurance.

Autism Speaks, Consumer Watchdog and other advocates then worked with California Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg to craft an ABA bill that ultimately passed the legislature and was signed by Gov. Jerry Brown in October 2011. The ABA bill provided that professional certification by the national Behavior Analysts Certification Board (BACB) would be sufficient for ABA practitioners to work in California, allowing their services to be covered by insurance.

The appeals court held that the 2011 ABA law served as an implicit legislative exemption to California's psychology practice act that effectively recognized that unlicensed BCBAs can deliver ABA treatment in California, even under plans like CalPERS and Healthy Families that are not specifically covered by the ABA law.

The court concluded that this exemption had to be interpreted broadly, otherwise a BACB-certified practitioner would be acting legally in treating a child with autism, but if the family switched to CalPERS coverage, the same practitioner delivering the same treatment to the same child would be acting illegally. "Such a result would be nonsensical," the court found.

As a result of the legislation and the lawsuit, “the DMHC can no longer use licensure as a barrier to ABA treatments for autistic children,” said Fredric D. Woocher of Strumwasser & Woocher LLP. “When we filed this lawsuit, HMOs were denying autistic children the most effective medical treatment that is available, with severe consequences for them, their families, and the state's taxpayers. HMOs were blatantly violating California law.

“DMHC's practice of requiring licensure led to the agency's upholding HMOs' denials and delays of this critical treatment for autistic children and their families at the time they need it the most,” Woocher said.

Although the appeals court only required coverage of BCBA-provided and supervised ABA for treatment occurring after July 1, 2012, the court offered strong support for ABA, noting that numerous studies have demonstrated that ABA is the most effective known treatment for children with autism and that the treatment has lasting results.

The 2011 ABA law is scheduled to expire on July 1, 2014. Legislation extending that deadline through 2016 has been approved by the Legislature and sent to Governor Brown.

State licensing issues involving ABA practitioners has frustrated the implementation of autism insurance reform laws in a number of states besides California, including New York, Virginia and Rhode Island and Autism Speaks continues to work through the courts, regulatory agencies and state legislatures to resolve these issues and insure that coverage reaches those in need.

September 11, 2013

Evidence Lacking On Transition Programs - DisabiltyScoop
A federal report suggests that far too little is known about the effectiveness of various types of transition programs in preparing students with disabilities for adulthood.

Sequester Hits Special Education Like ‘Ton of Bricks' - DisabiltyScoop
With the start of the new school year, students in special education are beginning to feel the effects of major federal funding cuts which are leading to less staff and fewer services.

Should People Who Are Blind Be Allowed To Carry Guns? - DisabiltyScoop
A new debate over disability rights is emerging as Iowa grants permits for people who are blind to carry guns.
September 10, 2013

Quinnipiac University couple contributes $1 million to create the William and Barbara Weldon Chair in Rehabilitation Medicine - PRNewswire
HAMDEN, Conn., Sept. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A vice chairman of Quinnipiac University's Board of Trustees and his wife, both alumni of the university,  have donated $1 million to endow a chair in Quinnipiac's new Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine. The...

Independent Living Centers Play A Vital Role In Helping Students Transition Out Of High School - PRNewswire
SACRAMENTO, Calif., Sept. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Although school just started for the 499,275 California students enrolled in grade 12, as projected by the California Department of Education, graduation isn't that far off and questions of "what's next" loom in the background. Leaving...

K-9 Disaster Relief on Animal Planet Documentary: Hero Dogs of 9/11 Documentary Special - PRNewswire

UPPER MONTCLAIR, N.J., Sept. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Premiering on Tuesday, September 10 at 8pm ET/PT, Animal Planet is airing HERO DOGS OF 9/11, a one-hour documentary special that chronicles the legacies of working dogs at Ground Zero.  (Photo:...



Reduce Lower Back Pain: Introducing The FlexAssist™ Portable Flexibility Enhancer - PRNewswire

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Sept. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Jon Bremer, inventor of the FlexAssist™, announces an exciting new product designed to help athletes and ordinary individuals with flexibility problems and chronic back pain enjoy more fulfilling lives.  The...



Disabled Veterans National Foundation Highlights Disparity in Some Veteran Assistance Programs - PRNewswire
WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- In his article 'Many Vets' Caregivers Cut out From Federal Benefit' (http://abcn.ws/1a9KeXL), Kevin Freking provided insight into how one mother, the sole caregiver of her disabled veteran son, is able to financially rely on a monthly...

School Offers Mom $86K To Keep Son With Autism Out - DisabiltyScoop
A California mother says that public school officials have offered her tens of thousands of dollars to take her son with autism out of school.
September 9, 2013

National Braille Press Announces $20K Touch of Genius Prize for Innovation - PRNewswire
BOSTON, Sept. 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- National Braille Press (NBP) announced today, that it is now accepting applications for its 2013 Louis Braille Touch of Genius Prize for Innovation that will reward the recipient with up to $20,000. In keeping with NBP's mission, projects...

Mr. Victor Calise Named 2013 American Rehabilitation Champion - PRNewswire
ROSEMONT, Ill., Sept. 9, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Mr. Victor Calise, Commissioner for Disability for New York City, will receive the Foundation for PM&R American Rehabilitation Champion Award on Saturday, October 5.  The American Rehabilitation Champion Award recognizes an...

Autism Speaks Weighs In On Maryland Insurance Reform Plan - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

Joins with other advocates in urging that proposal covering ABA, other therapies be strengthened

September 09, 2013

ANNAPOLIS (September 9, 2013) -- A Maryland proposal making clear that health insurers under existing state law must cover applied behavior analysis (ABA) and other autism therapiesneeds to be strengthened to maximize coveragefor as many families as possible, Autism Speaks has urged in a letter cosigned by leadingMaryland advocacy groups.

The regulatory proposalwas developed by the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA), which enforcesstate insurance law.The proposal resulted fromrecommendations presented by a task force which spent the past year hearing testimony on how coverage for autism therapies is routinely denied in Maryland because of the lack of clarity in existing law.

"As the (Maryland Insurance Administration) MIA finalizes these regulations, we ask that it carefully consider the real-world impact that the new rules will have on families in need of coverage," the groups wrote in a letter to the MIA. "Thousands of Marylanders stand to gain from these protections and we look forward to working with the MIA to insure that the regulations benefit as many Maryland families as possible."

Maryland is one of 16 states yet to enact autism insurance reform. Rather than push for enactment of a new law, however, advocates areworking to clarify existing habilitative services law by requiring ABA coverage for autism through regulation.

In addition to Autism Speaks, the letter was signed by state Senator Katherine Klausmeir, Pathfinders for Autism, the Autism Society's MontgomeryCounty, Howard CountyandBaltimore–Chesapeake chapters,The Shafer Center,the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington, and several parents.

Autism Speaksurged MIA to requirethat the level of habilitative servicesbe determined by medical necessity, rather than arbitrary age limits.

"As proposed, the regulation refers to up to 25 hours of habilitative services for children aged 18 months to 6 years, and up to 10 hours of habilitative services for those aged 6 to 19 years," the letter said. "We are concerned that these hourly references --which are included to prohibit carrier denials--will be interpreted as a fixed ceiling on coverage for habilitative services."

In addition the proposed hourly limits could appear to apply to all habilitative services, not just ABA. "This puts families in the difficult position of being forced to choose between critical benefits, such as speech therapy and physical therapy or ABA," the letter said.

The advocacy groups also urged the state to accept national certification for ABA providers rather than require that they obtain a Maryland license. Such licensure issues have delayed and frustratedthe implementation of autism insurance reform laws in other states, such as New York, Virginia and Rhode Island. In addition, the state was urged to clarify its definition of "habilitative services" to prevent potential delays and frustration when families file claims.

MIA willreview public commentson the proposalbefore issuing its final version of the regulatory change. A special legislative panel must then approve the change for the new coverage to become law.

Read the collaborative letter here


National Down Syndrome Registry Goes Live - DisabiltyScoop
A new national registry is launching in an effort to connect individuals who have Down syndrome with researchers studying the chromosomal disorder.
September 6, 2013

President Obama Appoints National Council on Disability Co-Vice Chair Lynnae Ruttledge to Serve on Long-Term Care Commission - PRNewswire
WASHINGTON, Sept. 6, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Council on Disability (NCD) applauds President Barack Obama's appointment of Lynnae Ruttledge to serve on the Commission on Long-Term Care. Ruttledge was appointed to NCD in January 2013 and serves as the Co-Vice Chair of...

ESPN, Disney To Promote Inclusive Sports - DisabiltyScoop
ESPN and The Walt Disney Company are joining forces with Special Olympics to encourage more individuals with and without disabilities to play together on sports teams.

Unemployment Declines For Those With Disabilities - DisabiltyScoop
Even as the unemployment rate ticked downward, new data from the U.S. Department of Labor suggests that the job situation for Americans with disabilities remains rocky.

Deal Reached In Service Dog, Teacher Allergy Dispute - DisabiltyScoop
The parents of a first-grader with autism have reached an agreement with an Ohio school district on how to accommodate both the girl's service dog and a teacher with a severe allergy.

CA Lawmakers Extend Autism Insurance Reform Through 2016 - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

Bill extending 2011 law goes to Governor Brown

September 06, 2013

SACRAMENTO (September 6, 2013) -- The California Senate gave final legislative approval to a bill extending the state's autism insurance reform law, set to expire next summer, through 2016. The bill now goes to Governor Jerry Brown for his signature.

The measure, SB.126, was authored by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (left) who authored the original 2011 law requiring state-regulated health plans to cover autism treatments, including applied behavior analysis (ABA).

According to Steinberg's office, the stateDepartment of Insurance estimates that over 12,500 Californians are receiving early autism treatment, saving taxpayersup to $200 million dollars a year in special education costs, which were previously funded by school districts or regional centers.

The bill originally would have extended the life of the law through2018, but was amended to provide for a new date of Jan. 1, 2017.


CAST and ME UCEDD Research Study Selected for Remedial and Special Education Editors Choice Collection - AUCD
'Literacy by Design: A Universal Design for Learning Approach for Students With Significant Intellectual Disabilities,' co-authored by Peggy Coyne, Bart Pisha, Bridget Dalton, Lucille Zeph and Nancy Cook Smith, has been selected for the Editor's Choice Collection as one of Remedial and Special Education's most noteworthy manuscripts (May/June 2012 Vol. 33 No. 3 162-172).

Ohio UCEDDs Collaborate with Susan G. Komen Affiliates to Improve the Mammography Experience for Women with Disabilities - AUCD
The Women with Disabilities Seminar for Mammography Technologists provided an opportunity to learn how to best serve women with various disabilities during a mammogram. Fifty mammography technologists from across Ohio attended this free training that also provided six CEU credits. Over 95% of attendees rated the training as valuable or highly valuable to their work.

3 Islands Host First-ever Self-Advocacy Summer Camps (NMC UCEDD) - AUCD
The Council on Developmental Disabilities, the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, and the Protection and Advocacy for Developmental Disabilities along with the Autism Society of the CNMI and the Coalition on Anti-Stigma of Mental Illness hosted the first Self-Advocacy Summer Camp on July 22, 2013, on the three islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

Outdoors for Everyone! (MT UCEDD) - AUCD
Access to outdoor recreation is the goal of the UM MonTECH Recreation program. For the past several years, MonTECH director Kathy Laurin and her staff have been compiling accessibility information for Montana public recreation lands. During the summer of 2013, Lee Bastian, who recently retired as a Regional Park Manager for the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, evaluated recreation sites in western Montana to see how accessible they are, or are not, for people with disabilities.

Iowa LEND Director Recognized for Newborn Hearing Screening Research - AUCD
The 2012 Editor's Award for the American Journal of Audiology will go to a team of researchers led by Lenore Holte, PhD, CCC-A, Iowa LEND Director and Clinical Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders and the Department of Pediatrics, The University of Iowa.
September 5, 2013

Harper Government announces concrete measures to give better access to Canadians with disabilities to their communities - PRNewswire
WINNIPEG, Sept. 5, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State (Social Development), today announced that more Canadians with disabilities will gain better access to workplaces and services in their communities as a result of the Government of Canada's Enabling...

Wounded Warriors Canada Launches 2014 Battlefield Ride - PRNewswire
Bike Ride will honour the fallen and help the living OTTAWA, Sept. 5, 2013 /CNW/ - Wounded Warriors Canada is proud to announce the launch of the 2014 Wounded Warriors Canada Battlefield Ride. Assembling on the 5th of June as did the troops in 1944, the participants will ready...

Bregal Partners Announces Acquisition of US Community Behavioral, LLC - PRNewswire
NEW YORK, Sept. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Private investment firm Bregal Partners has announced that it has acquired US Community Behavioral, LLC as a platform in the community-based behavioral health sector. The acquisition was made in partnership with management.  US...

Aspen Institute William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship for Minority Students - AUCD

Award Ceiling: $4,000

The Aspen Institute Program on Philanthropy and Social Innovation (PSI) in Washington, DC, offers the William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship three times annually. The fellowship, which is based on academic excellence and need, is open to both undergraduate and graduate students of color. The Hearst Fellow serves as an intern with PSI in the Washington, DC office of the Aspen Institute. Through this fellowship, PSI seeks to introduce a diverse group of students to issues and challenges affecting philanthropy, social enterprise, nonprofit organizations, and other actors in the social sector. Recipients may arrange with their colleges or universities to receive academic credit for this experience.

Learn more.


2013 WORLD CEREBRAL PALSY CHALLENGE BEGINS TODAY! - UPC
2013 WORLD CEREBRAL PALSY CHALLENGE BEGINS TODAY! 2013-09-05 07:52:05

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175,krichards@ucp.org

2013 WORLD CEREBRAL PALSY CHALLENGE BEGINS TODAY!

More than 1,500 participants commit to 10,000 steps a day to raise awareness and support for people with CP and other disabilities

Washington, DC (September 4, 2013)–United Cerebral Palsy (UCP)announced the launch of the second annual World Cerebral Palsy (CP) Challenge today, an international health and fitness event to raise awareness and support for people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

TheWorld CP Challengeis a month long campaign that encourages people to get active while supporting a great cause. Throughout September, more than 4,000 teams worldwide will challenge themselves to take 10,000 steps a day. Each of the steps—or bike rides, or yoga classes, or physical therapy sessions, as nearly any activity can be counted—will propel the teams up virtual mountains and track their progress. Teams can compare their progress against others from around the world, racing each other up the seven tallest mountains and spurring their efforts to new heights. And together, the teams will help to raise critical support for people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

Already, more than $50,000 has been raised in the U.S., and more than $500,000 internationally—but we still have a long way to go. Join the thousands of participants and World CP Challenge Ambassadors,Team Long Brothers, and help raise support for people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities today!Sign upis open throughWednesday, September 11. At the end of the month, the World CP Challenge will culminate onOctober 2withWorld Cerebral Palsy Day, a global innovation project to change the world for people with cerebral palsy

“UCP is very excited to kick off the second annual World Cerebral Palsy Challenge! This month promises to be an incredible, worldwide effort to raise awareness and support for people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. The World CP Challenge is such a great way for anyone, regardless of ability, to get involved and make a real difference for people with disabilities,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of UCP. “We look forward to seeing each team's progress throughout the month, and to finishing strong on World Cerebral Palsy Day onOctober 2. Good luck to everyone, and see you on the mountain!”

# # #

About United Cerebral Palsy

United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visitwww.ucp.org.

September 4, 2013

Art Of Excellence -- Art, Architecture and Nonprofits - PRNewswire
3 Million Benefit Each Year CHICAGO, Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On September 21, Executive Service Corps of Chicago (ESC), renowned nonprofit professional consulting resource for other nonprofits and public agencies, will spotlight its 35 years of service with a special...

Transition Focus Of New Documentary On PBS - DisabiltyScoop
A documentary following a special-education teacher as she prepares her students with autism to leave high school and enter adult life is set for its national television debut.

Survey Finds Disability Abuse Widespread - DisabiltyScoop
More than 7 in 10 with disabilities say they've been abused, according to a new national survey, and in many cases individuals say the problems occur repeatedly.

United Spinal & American Assoc. on Health and Disability Co-Host Free Webinar: Preventing Falls in Adults with Disabilities & Chronic Health Conditions - PRNewswire

.@UnitedSpinal & @AAHD1 host free webinar on Fall Prevention for People w/ #Disabilities.Tues, 9/17, 2-3 PM EDT https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/806061210 NEW YORK, Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --  United Spinal Association  and the American...



New, Free Resources Available For People Living With Paralysis And Their Caregivers - PRNewswire

Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Paralysis Resource Center Releases New Edition of "Paralysis Resource Guide" for e-Readers and Enhanced Multi-media Lending Library SHORT HILLS, N.J., Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- For the first time, individuals living with...


September 3, 2013

High Impact of Arthritis in the Workplace Draws Focus During Arthritis Awareness Month - PRNewswire
TORONTO, Sept. 3, 2013 /CNW/ - The statistics are alarming - over 4.6 million Canadians live with arthritis and the annual economic burden is estimated at $33 billion. In the recent 'Fit for Work' study commissioned by The Arthritis Society, one in three respondents reported that...

Few Young Adults With Autism Living Independently - DisabiltyScoop
Young adults with autism are more likely to live with their parents and least likely to live independently after high school as compared to those with other disabilities, researchers say.

Behavior Outburst Prompts Act Of Kindness - DisabiltyScoop
When an 8-year-old who's nonverbal became loud and hit the table while out to eat over the weekend, his family got a pleasant surprise.

Making The ER Less Stressful For Those On The Spectrum - DisabiltyScoop
A physician and three professors are trying to change how emergency rooms treat patients with autism as hospitals feel the effects of an exploding population of patients with the disorder.

Paralympic High Performance Athlete Development Advisor appointed to boost Canada's medal standings at future Games - PRNewswire
OTTAWA, Sept. 3, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Paralympic Committee, in partnership with Own The Podium and Canadian Sport Institute Pacific, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jean-François Rapatel as the inaugural Paralympic High Performance Athlete Development Advisor,...

Boulder Crest Retreat Opens to Wounded U.S. Military Near Washington, D.C. - PRNewswire

BLUEMONT, Va., Sept. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Boulder Crest Retreat, (http://www.bouldercrestretreat.org) the first-of-its-kind rural wellness center for wounded military warriors and their families, will celebrate its grand opening on Friday, September 6, just 60 miles outside of...



Schools Obligated To Maintain IEPs When Kids Move - DisabiltyScoop
Schools have a special responsibility to provide continuity when students with disabilities move from one district to another, federal education officials say.
September 2, 2013

Important Information from FDA on Medical Devices & Therapies - Disabilty.gov

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers important information about medical devices, products and medical procedures. Find information on safety procedures, treatment devices, therapy options, and research on medical devices like, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and obesity treatment devices.


Labor Department Announces Final Rules to Improve Employment of Veterans, People with Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

The U.S. Department of Labor has announced two final rules to improve hiring and employment of veterans and for people with disabilities. One rule updates requirements under the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974; the other updates those under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The new rules will ensure that qualified workers have more meaningful opportunities to find, secure and keep good jobs.


Poultry Processor Charged with Disability Discrimination for Firing Employee with Anemia - Disabilty.gov

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedHouse of Raeford Farms, Inc. with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. An employee at the Rose Hill, NC-based poultry processor was asked to work in a cold work environment. Due to her anemia, she requested a reasonable accommodation to work in a warm work environment. The company requested a doctor's notice and then fired her. It also allegedly disclosed the employee's disability to other co-workers.


Car Dealership Sued for Refusing to Accommodate Employee after Spinal Surgery & Firing Him - Disabilty.gov

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedRandall Ford, a car dealership in Fort Smith, AR, with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). Ford allegedly violated the ADA when it refused to provide a reasonable accommodation to an employee following spinal surgery, and then fired him. The employee requested to use a company golf cart and help with test-driving vehicles. The lawsuit includes a court order preventing Ford from future discrimination.


Job Accommodation Network Offers Publications in Spanish - Disabilty.gov

TheJob Accommodation Network (JAN) now offers many fact sheets and other publications in Spanish. These documents describe how to accommodate people with many different types of physical and mental disabilities in the workplace. You'll also find information about the Americans with Disabilities Act and how to file a job discrimination complaint based on disability. JAN also has a comprehensive list of publications in English.


U.S. Access Board to Hold Open Question & Answer Session - September 4 - Disabilty.gov

The U.S. Access Board will hold its next Open Question and Answer session onSeptember 4, 2013 from2:30 - 4 p.m. Eastern Time. Participants will be able to ask questions on any topic such as the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Standard, the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard, Section 508, Medical Diagnostic Equipment, Public Rights of Way, or other Board rulemakings or activities. To be able to answer all questions organizers ask that participants submit their questions in advance.


Help with Writing for Students with Learning Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

Many people with learning disabilities (LD) struggle with expressing themselves in writing. This article gives parents and educators ideas to help students with LD to succeed in writing. Some tips include teaching a Self-Regulated Strategy Development for Writing, providing accommodations for additional time for writing assignments or tests, and using assistive technology, like software, to help students who have problems with handwriting. Learn more about these techniques and use the online checklist to find out if your student may have LD.

September 1, 2013

Backstreet Boys To Open 2013 MDA Show Of Strength Telethon Labor Day Weekend - PRNewswire

TUCSON, Ariz., Sept. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Get ready for a "Larger than Life" performance when the Backstreet Boys open the 48th annual MDA Show of Strength Telethon this Labor Day weekend on Sunday, 9/8c, on ABC television stations across the country. (Photo:...


August 30, 2013

Cerebral Palsy Gesture-Activated Gaming Shown in Video by CP Family Network - PRNewswire

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Cerebral Palsy Family Network has released a video showing children and teens with cerebral palsy delighting in playing video games using a new technology. The players, some with visual impairment, used gestures instead of keyboards. The...



WORLD CP CHALLENGE ANNOUNCES TEAM LONG BROTHERS AS 2013 AMBASSADORS - UPC
WORLD CP CHALLENGE ANNOUNCES TEAM LONG BROTHERS AS 2013 AMBASSADORS 2013-08-30 10:22:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org

WORLD CP CHALLENGE ANNOUNCES TEAM LONG BROTHERS AS 2013 AMBASSADORS

Connor and Cayden, who has CP, compete as a team in triathlons

Washington, DC (August 30, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is thrilled to announce that the Team Long Brothers, Connor and Cayden Long, will serve as the 2013 World Cerebral Palsy (CP) Challenge Ambassadors.

Connor, 10, and Cayden, 7, compete in triathlons and were named the 2012 Sports Illustrated SportsKids of the year— but they are more than just an active pair of brothers. Cayden has spastic cerebral palsy, and cannot walk or speak. Connor pushes Cayden in a stroller, pulls him in a raft and tows him behind his bicycle in each race. And along the way, this amazing duo has shown that anything is possible with the love and support of their friends and family. 14 triathlons later, Team Long Brothers has truly embodied their motto to “Keeping Rolling!”

Team Long Brothers' next competition is the World CP Challenge, four-week event to raise awareness and support for people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Beginning on September 4, teams from around the world will challenge themselves to take 10,000 steps a day— and nearly any activity, including biking, physical therapy and yoga, can be converted into steps on the World CP Challenge website. Last year, nearly 7,000 people worldwide participated in the challenge and raised an incredible $774,399. Team Long Brothers is committed to helping make this year an even bigger success!

“Our family is so honored to see the boys as the ambassadors for the Challenge, we hope that other families will see the importance of being active and healthy as much as we do, and the great thing about this challenge is anyone can take part and it will help families and individuals living with the everyday challenges of Cerebral palsy,” said the Long family. “So always remember to Keep Rolling!!”

“We are thrilled to have Team Long Brothers as ambassadors for the World CP Challenge. Their story shows that, with the support they need, anything is possible for people with disabilities,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of UCP. “Connor and Cayden are an inspiration, and we look forward to watching their progress throughout the month—and hope we can keep up!”

For more information about the Long Brothers and their story, please visit their website, www.teamlongbrothers.org.

# # #

About United Cerebral Palsy

United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.


Disabled Veterans National Foundation Celebrates the Bravery of Medal of Honor Recipient, SSG Ty Carter - PRNewswire
WASHINGTON, Aug. 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (www.dvnf.org), a non-profit veterans service organization that focuses on helping men and women who serve and return home wounded or sick after defending our safety and our freedom, is retelling with...

Kids' Attitudes About Disabilities Improve With Exposure - DisabiltyScoop
Children who are exposed to people with disabilities -- either directly or indirectly -- have more positive attitudes about those with special needs, researchers say.

Autism Communication Disconnect May Subside With Age - DisabiltyScoop
New research suggests that children with high-functioning autism often outgrow at least one facet of their disability as they reach adolescence.

Court Strikes Down Special Education Age Limit - DisabiltyScoop
In a victory for students with disabilities, a federal appeals court ruled this week that Hawaii violated the law by cutting off special education at age 20.
August 29, 2013

NCD Welcomes Efforts to Restore Section 503 as a Meaningful Requirement for Federal Contractors - PRNewswire
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Council on Disability – an independent federal agency that advises the President and Congress on policy matters affecting the lives of Americans with disabilities – welcomes the issuance of the final Section 503...

INDEPENDENCE THROUGH EMPLOYMENT: Nominate an Employee with Disabilities for SCLAD's (Spinal Cord Living-Assistance Development, Inc.) Esteemed Employee Award - PRNewswire
HIALEAH, Fla., Aug. 29, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Employment Policy, Kathleen Martinez, will be Keynote Speaker at the Disability Employment Awareness Luncheon, on October 11, 2013, at The Rusty Pelican in Key Biscayne, Florida. The Luncheon is...

7% Disability Hiring Goal Set for Federal Contracts - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

Biden announces new policy that will require contractors to recruit, track hiring of workers with disabilities

August 29, 2013

HOUSTON (August 29, 2013) -- Contractors who bid on federal contracts funded by taxpayer dollars will have to step up their efforts to recruit workers with disabilities, under a new policy announced by Vice President Joe Biden. According to the Associated Press, federal contractorscurrently employabout 1 in every 5 U.S. workers.

Contractors will have to set a goal of employingpeople with disabilities as 7 percent of their workforce and track their progress in meeting the goal.The new policy, along withchanges in veterans hiring,was announced by Vice President Joe Biden while addressing the American Legion convention here.

Established by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), the new policy marks the first time the federal government has set a specific hiring goal for people with disabilities, and follows earlier requirements for minorities and women. While the new goal is not now enforceable, it will require contractors to recruit and track their progress in hiring disabled workers when they bid on federal contracts.

"In a competitive job market, employers need access to the best possible employees," said Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. "These rules make it easier for employers to tap into a large, diverse pool of qualified candidates."

Disability groups that have monitored the issue cheered the policy change as a step forward.

Barbara Otto, CEO of Health & Disability Advocates, which manages Think Beyond the Label, said in a blog that her group had requested a 10 percent goal, but was satisfied with7 percent.

"For far too long, businesses have publicly stated their interest in hiring people with disabilities, but for a variety of reasons they have not acted on that interest," Otto said. "This ruling will provide further incentives for businesses to hire, and with proper guidance and enforcement, will facilitate the increased employment of qualified workers with disabilities.

"This is a great day for those who worked hard to advocate for stronger employment opportunities for people with disabilities," she said.

TheNational Organization on Disability said the new policy would elevate the "employment of people with disabilities – the nation's largest minority group," in a statement from its president, Carol Glazer.

“I feel confident in saying that the hurdles for employers will not be a difficult threshold," Glazer said. "And there are many organizations in the disability field who stand prepared to help companies meet these goals."

The new rule, which amends the Rehabilitation Act of 1972, will take effect 180 days after publication in the Federal Register. Specifically it willrequire federal contractors and subcontractors to:

  • Establish the 7 percent goal in each of their job groups or, if they have fewer than 100 employess, their entire workforce. If they fall short of the goal during annual review, theywill have to establish "specific action-oriented programs" to redress problems
  • Document the number of disabled workers who apply for jobs and who they hire
  • Invite job applicants to self-identify any disabilities
  • Allow access to their records by the DOL to check for compliance


UHC Agrees To Stop Denying Speech Therapy in California - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

Under agreement with state, insurer will also reimburse families for out-of-pocket costs

August 29, 2013

SACRAMENTO (August 29, 2013) -- As a result of enforcement action brought by the state of California, United HealthCare of California (UHC) has agreed to stop routinely denying claims for speech therapy and to reimburse its subscribers for out-of-pocket expenses. UHC reached the agreement througha settlement with the California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC).

“The agreement ensures that UHC enrollees needing speech therapy will receive the care to which they are entitled to under the law,” said DMHC Director Brent Barnhart. “Enrollees will no longer have to pay out of pocket to receive medically necessary speech therapy services and can now seek reimbursement for past out of pocket expenses.”

The settlement is the second major action in California involving denials for autism-related services by private health plans. Earlier this month, Kaiser Permanenteagreed to settle a class action lawsuit by reimbursing families up to $9.3 million in claims for speech and applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy.

UHC routinely denied claims for speech therapy, contending they were an educational rather than medical service. Following areview of consumer complaints, DMHC brought enforcement action agasinst UHC underCalifornia's Knox-Keene Act, which requires health plans tocover speech therapy whenever those services are medically necessary.

The settlement, which became effective August 23, requires UHC to notify all current subscribers in its November 2013 subscriber newsletter, as well as all affected former subscribers within 60 days, of their right to medically necessary speech therapy services. The noticewill explain how families canrequest reimbursement for past out-of-pocket expenses for speech therapy.

Subscribers and former subscribers must seekreimbursement beforeJuly 30, 2014.


With Talking Guide, TV Becoming More Accessible - DisabiltyScoop
How does a person who's blind find what to "watch" on a TV with 200 channels and 46,000 video-on-demand choices? A Comcast executive who's visually impaired thinks he has the answer.
August 28, 2013

Woman Uses Arts & Crafts Kits to Cope following Assault - PRNewswire

WINCHESTER, Calif., Aug. 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Marilyn Rivera comes from three generations of family having served in the U.S. military.  The path she took was very different than her father and grandfather, however, as she served as an Army Drill Instructor (DI). Women in...



Canadian Paralympians Carla Qualtrough and Patrick Jarvis Nominated for International Leadership Roles - PRNewswire
OTTAWA, Aug. 28, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Paralympic Committee is pleased to confirm that two highly-respected Canadian Paralympic athlete leaders, Carla Qualtrough and Patrick Jarvis, have been nominated for international leadership roles in the Paralympic movement. Patrick...

Local Schools Told to Step Up Services for Military Kids - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

Feds require "comparable" special education services for families who frequently relocate

August 28, 2013

WASHINGTON, DC (August 28, 2013) --In response to longstanding concerns raised bymilitary familiessubject tofrequent relocation,local school districts have been directed to providespecial education and related services for transferring military students that are "comparable"with what they received at theirprevious school.Anestimated 23,500 children in military familieshave autism.

The directive was issued as guidance by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSEP) for local school districts around the nation to understand their obligations under the federal IDEA Act and their responsibilities to satisfy the IEPs of "highly mobile students," such as those in military families, migrant familiesor foster care, or the homeless.

Military and other highly mobile students frequently face challenges with school districts and often have very little recourse due to ongoing relocation.Due process proceedings are time intensive and the family may be required to move again before any conflict can be resolved.

The OSEP guidance, issued in a letter to statespecial education directors, addressed three issues specific tospecial needs students who move frequently during their childhoods. "While these children often possess remarkable resilience, they also experience formidable challenges as they cope with frequent educational transitions," the OSEP letter said.

  • When specialedcuationstudents transfer into a new school district, they must receive services that are comparable towhat their last school provided.If the transfer occurs within the same state, the district must continue providing comparable services until it adopts the child's existing IEP or adopts a new IEP. If the transfer occurs between states, the new district must meet the new requirement until it evaluates the student and implements a new IEP.The letter clarifies the definition of “comparable services” to mean “services that are similar or equivalent to those services that were described in the child's IEP from the previous school district.”
  • OSEP said the "comparable" services requirements includes Extended School Year (ESY)services typically provided during summer months. OSEP said it was aware of districts denying ESY services under the erroneous understanding that its obligations were limited to the normal school year.
  • School districts should quickly complete eligibility determinations for incoming special needs students, preferably within 30 days. Because IDEA allows up to 60 days for the evaluations, a special needs student could be 50 days into the process when transferred to a new district where the entire process would have to start over from the beginning. OSEP said the old and new districts should coordinate the completion of the evaluation. In addition, new districts should not haltevaluations on the basis that they first need to implementa Response to Intervention process.

  • New Federal Rule Aims To Boost Disability Employment - DisabiltyScoop
    The Obama administration is pressing forward with a plan to urge companies doing business with the federal government to dramatically increase their hiring of people with disabilities.

    Oregon Governor, Advocates Celebrate Autism Insurance Reform - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Gov. Kitzhaber conducts ceremonial signing of bill that made Oregon 34th state to enact reform

    August 27, 2013

    SALEM (Aug. 27, 2013) -- Governor John Kitzhaber conducted abill-signing ceremony in his office today with the Oregon autism community to celebrate the enactment of legislation that made Oregon the 34th state to enact autism insurance reform.

    Sponsored by Sen. Alan Bates of Medford, the new law (SB.365) was approved unanimously by the Legislature and then officially signed August 14 by Kitzhaber. The enactment was celebrated publicly today with the bill-signing ceremony in the Governor's office. (Left: Autism Speaks Director of State Government Affairs Judith Ursitti looks on as Kitzhaber signs the bill.)

    The law, which requires coverage of applied behavior analysis (ABA),will take effect in 2015 for public employees and 2016 for state-regulated health plans.Oregon joins Minnesota and the District of Columbia which also enacted autism insurance reform this year; similar efforts areunderway in Maryland and Ohio.

    The new law establishes requirements for state-regulated health plans to approve and manage autism treatment, including ABA and any other medical or mental health services identified in an individualized treatment plan. To qualify,kids must begin treatment before age 9;up to 25 hours of ABA per week will be covered andcontinue for as long as medically necessary, regardless of age.

    Existing Oregon laws require coverage of autism treatment for older patients and those seeking more than 25 hours of ABA per week.

    A seven-member Behavior Analysis Regulatory Board will be created within the Oregon Health Licensing Agency to license providers.

    The new law will also impact Medicaid coverage through the Oregon Health Plan. The Oregon Health Evidence Review Commission (HERC) is now reviewing ABA in order to update the state's prioritized list of health services covered through Medicaid. HERC began the study before the bill was signed by Kitzhaber.

    Kitzhaber in July signed a related measure, SB.414, sponsored by Senator Chip Shields of Portland, which strengthens the enforcement powers of the state Insurance Division. The agency is now able to order health plans to pay restitution to consumers if they violate the law or their contracts. State regulators previously had very limited enforcement powers over the insurance industry which has an exemption under Oregon's anti-fraud laws.

    August 27, 2013

    EEOC Reaches Agreement with Health Services Provider on Reasonable Accommodations - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has chargedCooper University Health Care with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Camden, NJ-based Cooper hasagreed to make policy changes to improve its reasonable accommodations for employees who must be absent from work due to serious medical conditions.


    NOD President Issues Statement Regarding U.S. Dept. Of Labor Rule Change For Federal Contractors Hiring People With Disabilities - PRNewswire
    NEW YORK, Aug. 27, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- National Organization on Disability President Carol Glazer today issued the following statement on the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) approval of a rule change to Section 503 of the...

    Dan Parker Completes Successful Run on Bonneville Salt Flats - PRNewswire

    National Federation of the Blind Congratulates Blind Motorcyclist WENDOVER, Utah, Aug. 27, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) today congratulated Dan Parker, who yesterday became the second blind man to publicly operate a vehicle...



    Griswold Home Care Promotes Home Safety for People with Alzheimer's Disease - PRNewswire

    PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 27, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- To recognize National Safe at Home Week and to discuss innovative steps to create a safe and healthy home setting for people with Alzheimer's Disease and their caregivers, Griswold Home Care, a national non-medical home care company, will...



    Disability, Civil Rights Converge At Historic Gathering - DisabiltyScoop
    As thousands gather in the nation's capital this week to honor the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, disability rights issues will be on the agenda.

    More Links Seen Between Autism and ADHD - Disabilty.gov

    A recent study has found that children who have attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to exhibit signs of autism. In this study, one out of five children showed some signs of autism, including slow language development, difficulty interacting with others and being able to control emotions. Children who have both ADHD and autism traits do not respond well to ADHD treatment. Treating symptoms of autism is needed before ADHD symptoms can be controlled.


    Easter Seals Welcomes Life Skills to its Nationwide Network of Service Providers - PRNewswire

    St. Louis -based not-for-profit Life Skills joins Easter Seals to better serve the needs of people with disabilities across the state of Missouri CHICAGO, Aug. 27, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On September 1, Easter Seals welcomes Life Skills, based in St. Louis, Mo., to its...



    Study Finds Antipsychotics Triple Diabetes Risk - DisabiltyScoop
    A new study suggests that medications often prescribed to individuals with developmental disabilities are associated with a significantly heightened risk for diabetes.
    August 26, 2013

    Free Online Workshop for Caregivers of Veterans - Disabilty.gov

    The Department of Veterans Affairs is offering a free six-week online workshop called Building Better Caregivers. Small groups of 20-25 family caregivers can interact and work together to communicate about dementia, traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder and other serious conditions. Contact aCaregiver Support Coordinator at your local VA Medical Center to participate.


    Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy has released its "Soft Skills to Pay the Bills" video series on DVD. The video series focuses on teaching "soft" or workforce readiness skills to youth, including youth with disabilities. This tool is for youth development professionals to help them introduce youth ages 14 to 21 to workplace interpersonal and professional skills in both in-school and out-of-school environments.


    A Blunder from Down Under: Stuttering Foundation Warns Parents Not To Be Misled By Headlines Surrounding Australian Study on Preschoolers' Stuttering - PRNewswire
    MEMPHIS, Tenn., Aug. 26, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- While the findings are important to the stuttering community, the headlines topping reports about a new Australian study on preschoolers' stuttering are creating concerns for the Stuttering Foundation. "Headlines heralding...

    Autism Takes Center Stage in Housing Discrimination Case - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Court upholds federal agency's aggressive enforcement of Fair Housing Act

    August 26, 2013

    RICHMOND (August 26, 2013) -- An aggressive prosecution by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) against a West Virginia landlord it accused of discriminating against a prospective tenantbecause of hisautism has been upheld by a federal appeals court.

    The case involved a Charleston, WV landlord whoimposed a series of conditions on a prospective tenant, Delores Walker,after she said her 48-year-old brother with "severe autism" would share the apartment.The landlord demanded that Walker obtain anote from her brother's doctor stating that he would not pose a liability threat, obtaina renter's insurance policy with $1 million in liability coverage, and assumeresponsibility for any damage Walker's brother might cause to the property.

    The landlord, Michael Corey, told Walker he was imposing the conditions based on his prior observations of “children with autism . . . flailing their arms and hollering and screaming in outrage.”

    Walker elected not to pursue the rental, but HUD took up the case, arguing Corey had violated the Fair Housing Act by discriminating on the basis of disability in his offer of the apartment. An administrative law judgefound for Corey, but HUD reversed the judge's recommendations and imposed fines on Corey.

    Corey then appealed to the U.S. Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. The three-judge federal appeals panel upheld HUD's actions and further increased the fines.

    “Corey's arguments are unavailing," the appealscourt ruled. "For one, the fact that Ms. Walker disclosed her brother's disability does not excuse Corey's discriminatory responsive statements. Nor does it matter that Corey did not refuse to rent to the Walkers; the statute simply prohibits statements to renters that indicate a limitation based on disability, and Corey admits to making such statements."

    Corey failed to showany objective, individualizedevidence thatWalker's brotherposed a direct threat to persons or property.The discriminatory conditions were imposed based "on unsubstantiated stereotypes about autistic people in general."


    FCC Speaker Series on Improving Technology Accessibility for the General Public - September 12 - Disabilty.gov

    The Federal Communications Commission's (FCC)Accessibility & Innovation Initiative will featureDr. Yevgen Borodin as part of its ongoing Speaker Series on September 13, 2013 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. in Washington, DC. The presentation"Improving Accessibility for the General Public" will discuss Web accessibility. Demonstrations of accessible technology solutions will be held from 1 - 3 p.m. following the main presentation. A free webcast will be available for people who cannot attend in-person. Pre-register and request accommodations by email ataiispeaker@fcc.govto attend in person.


    HUD Charges Fifth Third Bank, Mortgage Company with Discriminating Against Couple with Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has charged Fifth Third Bank, Fifth Third Mortgage Company and Cranbrook Mortgage Corporation with violation of the Fair Housing Act.HUD alleges that the companies discriminated against a couple with disabilities who were trying to refinance their home mortgage. The lender and broker asked the couple to provide unnecessary medical documentation to qualify for a Federal Housing Administration loan.


    Education Department Wants to Eliminate 2 Percent Rule for Testing Students with Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Education has proposed regulations to transition away from academic assessments using the "2 percent rule". Currently, states can use scores for up to 2 percent of students using modified academic achievement standards as being proficient. Under the new rule, students with disabilities will transition to college and career ready standards that match standards used for all students. States would be given technical assistance as they transition from the 2 percent standard for assessments.


    Calling All Truckers To Join The Truck Convoy For Special Olympics Illinois On September 28 - PRNewswire
    NORMAL, Ill., Aug. 26, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Law enforcement and truckers throughout the United States and Canada will join forces once again this fall for the World's Largest Truck Convoy to benefit Special Olympics.  Truckers throughout Illinois are invited to join...

    Special Education Testing Standards May Soon Be Tightened - DisabiltyScoop
    The U.S. Department of Education wants to end a rule that allows states to count some students with disabilities as academically proficient even if they do not meet grade-level standards.

    Teacher's Allergy Forces Girl With Autism To Change Schools - DisabiltyScoop
    A first-grader with autism has been told that she must transfer to a different school all because her teacher is allergic to the girl's service dog.
    August 23, 2013

    Justice Department Settles Fair Housing Lawsuit with Engineering Company over Inaccessible Apartments - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has settled a lawsuit withMulti/Tech Engineering Services Inc. of Salem, OR for allegedly violating the Fair Housing Act. The engineering company designed an apartment complex with steps and other features that made it inaccessible to people with disabilities. Multi/Tech has agreed to take corrective actions to make the complex accessible, including removing steps from sidewalks, widening interior doorways and installing sloped curb ramps.


    FCC Extends Comment Deadline on Closed Captioning Issues - New Deadline November 4 - Disabilty.gov

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted closed captioning rules in January 2012 for video programming delivered by Internet protocol and for equipment that consumers use to view video programming. The rules were required under theTwenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010. The FCC released a second notice of proposed rulemaking requesting comments on more closed captioning issues. The comment deadline, which was September 3, 2013, has been extended to November 4, 2013. This link opens in PDF format.


    FDA Warns Against Alternative Autism Therapy - DisabiltyScoop
    Federal regulators are warning consumers that a therapy often marketed for treating autism, cerebral palsy and other conditions is unproven and may "endanger their health."
    August 22, 2013

    Gabby Douglas Lends Support To 2013 Edition Of Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids® - PRNewswire
    WAYNE, N.J., Aug. 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Toys"R"Us, Inc. announced the release of the 2013 Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids®, an easy-to-use toy selection resource for those who know, love and shop for children with special needs. This annual, complimentary...

    With Eye On 2015, Special Olympics World Games Taking Shape - DisabiltyScoop
    It's two years off, but plans are well underway for the day over 7,000 athletes with disabilities converge on Los Angeles for the city's largest event in decades.

    AUCD Welcomes 2013-2014 Virtual Trainee Elaine Eisenbaum, MSW - AUCD
    Elaine is eager to foster communication and collaboration among trainees throughout the AUCD network both virtually and in-person. She has a number of exciting efforts already underway and AUCD is excited for this year's trainees to form a supportive and interactive network. Trainees and Directors are encouraged to contact Elaine to find out more!

    AUCD Announces New Executive Director - AUCD
    AUCD's Board of Directors is pleased to announce the selection of Andrew J. Imparato as the next Executive Director of the Association. Mr. Imparato succeeds George Jesien who will be retiring after successfully leading the organization for the past fourteen years.
    August 21, 2013

    Justice Department Reaches Settlement with Texas to Keep People with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Out of Institutions - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has reached a temporary settlement agreement with the state of Texas to allow Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to live in their communities instead of nursing homes. The lawsuit alleges that Texas has not complied with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Supreme Court's Olmstead v. L.C., which has led to the unnecessary institutionalization of people with I/DD.


    Children with Autism Did Better on Math Tests than Others in Study - Disabilty.gov

    In a research study, children with autism with average IQs consistently did better on math tests than children without autism in the same IQ range. All had average verbal and reading skills. Researchers believe that the superior math skills are the result of unique activity in the part of the brain involved in problem-solving abilities. Researchers believe that focusing on the strengths of children with autism can make a difference in their lives and in future job opportunities.


    National Federation of the Blind Sponsors Blind Driver's "Quest for the Salt" - PRNewswire

    Dan Parker Will Be First Blind Man to Drive Motorcycle on Bonneville Salt Flats WENDOVER, Utah, Aug. 21, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind today announced its sponsorship of the first attempt by a blind driver to independently race a motorcycle...



    Shock After Family Told To ‘Euthanize' Boy With Autism - DisabiltyScoop
    Police are investigating after an anonymous letter suggesting that a teen with autism should be euthanized stunned his family and led to widespread outrage and media attention.

    Feds Urge Schools To Tackle Bullying Of Kids With Disabilities - DisabiltyScoop
    In new guidance sent to educators across the country, federal education officials say that schools may be liable if they don't properly address bullying of students with disabilities.
    August 20, 2013

    With Facebook Support, Teen With Down Syndrome Lands Photo Shoot - DisabiltyScoop
    Within days, a teen with Down syndrome has accrued more than 10,000 likes on Facebook and now she's getting the star treatment from her favorite clothing chain.

    Doctors Often Ill-Equipped To Diagnose Latinos On The Spectrum - DisabiltyScoop
    A new survey suggests that pediatricians are having a particularly tough time spotting Latino children who have autism.

    The President's Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities (PCPID) Report Now Available in Spanish - AUCD
    This report provides recommendations regarding Managed Long-Term Services and Supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Translation of this document is courtesy of the Puerto Rico UCEDD.

    Siblings At Greater Risk For Autism, Study Finds - DisabiltyScoop
    Younger brothers and sisters of those with autism are nearly seven times more likely to have the developmental disorder too, researchers say.
    August 19, 2013

    Back to School: Teaching Kids How to Handle Bullying - Disabilty.gov

    Bullying can leave lasting emotional scars on a kid. And the way teachers, parents and other adults respond to bullying can affect the way kids perceive and respond to it. Stopbullying.gov defines bullying behavior; identifies the warning signs of bullying and ways to prevent it; helps adults recognize kids who may be at risk; and provides information on how to respond to bullying when it happens.


    Maria Shriver and Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom to Return as Honorary Co-Chairs of the 10th Anniversary Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle - PRNewswire
    CARMEL, Calif., Aug. 19, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Best Buddies International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship, employment and leadership training for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is pleased to announce that author,...

    Numotion Launches New Company Website - PRNewswire

    ROCKY HILL, Conn. and ST. LOUIS, Aug. 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Numotion announces today the launch of our new company website Numotion.com. Customers, therapists and clinicians and Numotion employees will be able to utilize Numotion.com to find the most current communications regarding...



    Las Personas Deberían Abrir una Cuenta "My Social Security" para Proteger su Información Personal y Ayudar a Frenar el Robo de Identidad - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, 19 de agosto de 2013 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- En 2012, la Administración del Seguro Social (SSA) lanzó el portal de internet my Social Security. Las cuentas de My Social Security pueden servir como herramienta valiosa para que los beneficiarios actuales...

    Feds Reverse Course On Disability Provision Of Affordable Care Act - DisabiltyScoop
    Federal officials are backing off a new provision of the health care law that would have largely barred guardians from serving as paid caregivers for adults with developmental disabilities.

    DSM-5 Resources - AUCD
    The Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) was released in May 2013, bringing with it several revisions to the criteria for the diagnosis and classification of mental disorders. One important change was for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) classifications. AUCD's resource page on the DSM-5 and ASD includes select resources that network members have found to be helpful in understanding the changes to the criteria.
    August 16, 2013

    Spinal Cord Injured Individuals Go Surfing with Life Rolls On's signature program, They Will Surf Again - PRNewswire
    HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., Aug. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Hundreds of individuals will gather at 9th Street Beach in Huntington Beach, CA on Saturday, August 17, 2013 as Life Rolls On Foundation (LRO) hosts "They Will Surf Again" (TWSA), a powerful program that enables...

    Social Security Administration Changes Official Terminology from "Mental Retardation" to "Intellectual Disability" - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In a final rule published in the Federal Register on August 1, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced that it will abandon the use of the term "mental retardation" and adopt the term "intellectual disability" in its...

    Individuals Should Open a "My Social Security" Account to Protect Personal Information and Help Stop Identity Theft - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In 2012, The Social Security Administration (SSA) launched the my Social Security portal. My Social Security accounts can serve as valuable tool for current beneficiaries to check benefit and payment information, and to start or...

    Disabled Veterans National Foundation Applauds Executive Order Calling for Creation of Joint PTSD and TBI Research Consortia - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (www.dvnf.org), a non-profit veterans service organization that focuses on helping men and women who serve and return home wounded or sick after defending our safety and our freedom, is applauding an...

    Study Finds ‘Different' Brain In Some With Autism - DisabiltyScoop
    Stanford researchers have unearthed clues about the formidable brains of some children with autism, suggesting that the diagnosis may signal a different cognitive style, not disability.

    Thousands Caught In Special Education Testing Snafu - DisabiltyScoop
    A leading education firm is acknowledging that it messed up when evaluating alternative assessments for thousands of students with disabilities.

    Wal-Mart Sued in Texas for Unlicensed Sale of Hearing Aids - PRNewswire
    DALLAS, Aug. 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Members of the Texas Hearing Aid Association have filed a federal class-action lawsuit against Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (NYSE: WMT) based on claims that the world's largest retailer sells hearing aids without the state-mandated license. The...

    State Publishes Final Version of ABA Licensing Rules - Autism Speaks - Advocasy
    August 15, 2013

    ALBANY (August 15, 2013) -- The state Department of Financial Services has published its final emergency rule regarding licensure of practitioners of applied behavior analysis (ABA). The agency earlier this year was requiring ABA practitioners to obtain a state license to practice in New York, but has dropped that requirement by acceptingcertification through thenational Behavior Analyst Certification Board.

    The licensure issue had frustrated implementation of the state's 2011 autism insurance reform laws by rendering the services of ABA practitioners ineligible for reimbursement.

    The new regulations, published in the New York State Register,are here (starting on second page)

    August 15, 2013

    Professional Development Opportunity for Youth Service Professionals - Application Deadline August 31 - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment in partnership with theNational Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth will hold free professionaldevelopment training for partnering organizations in three communities. The sites selected will receive professional development and technical assistance to strengthen youth service professionals' abilities to work with youth, including those with disabilities. Download an application in Word format. Application deadline is August 31, 2013. For more information about this program contact Patricia Gill (gillp@iel.org, 202.822.8405 x 154) at the Institute for Educational Leadership.


    Mental Health Services An Important Part of Emergency Disaster Care - Disabilty.gov

    Researchers have found that comprehensive mental health services, including diagnosis and treatment, should be part of emergency medical services after disasters. Mental health disorders are less obvious than physical injuries, but affect many victims following disasters. The availability of mental health services will help victims handle stress, depression and preexisting disorders.


    Terapia Intensiva Blossom's Developmental está Mejorando las Vidas de Niños de Todo El Mundo - PRNewswire

    MIAMI, 15 de agosto de 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Blossom's Developmental Therapy Associates, una moderna instalación pediátrica creada por John y la Dr. Claudia Orrett junto con Jennifer Burch, MPT, C-NDT Director de Programas de Terapia, ofrece programas que ayudan a niños con...



    Citing Threat To Property Value, Neighbors Want Ramp Removed - DisabiltyScoop
    A Colorado family says their neighbors have threatened them with legal action over the ramp they installed for their daughter with cerebral palsy to access their home.

    'Parents Perspectives' Video Series from the OK UCEDD - AUCD
    This short video series features parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities or special health care needs. In the videos, parents share their perspectives on getting a disability diagnosis, supporting their children through transitions in the school system, and dealing with emergency personnel.

    AHEAD, in Collaboration with the University of Arizona, Partners with U.S. Department of State to Bolster Disability Rights in Ukraine - AUCD
    In September 2013, Carol Funckes and Sue Kroeger of the University of Arizona will travel to Ukraine for a preliminary exchange visit to gain an understanding of disability and inclusion in Ukrainian communities and to lay the foundation for an effective ongoing international relationship. In October 2013, the Ukraine-based constituents will travel to overseas to gain first-hand experience on how issues in their field are addressed in the United States.

    Welcome #34! Oregon Enacts Autism Insurance Reform - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Approved unanimously by Legislature, new law will require ABA coverage

    August 14, 2013

    SALEM (August 14, 2013) -- Governor John Kitzhaber today signed SB.365 into law, making Oregon the 34th state to enact autism insurance reform by requiring coverage of applied behavior analysis (ABA).

    Sponsored by Sen. Alan Bates of Medford [pictured], the new law will take effect in 2015 for public employees and 2016 for state-regulated health plans.It was approved unanimously by the Legislature. Oregon joins Minnesota and the District of Columbia which also enacted autism insurance reform this year.

    “Senator Bateshas demonstrated leadership on an issue of critical concern to thousands of Oregon families,” said Lorri Unumb, Esq, Autism Speaks vice president for state government affairs. “His leadership and perserverance through the years will bring relief to families who have struggled financially to provide essential therapies for their children with autism.

    "We commend Governor Kitzhaber for working with the Legislature and stakeholders to produce this final legislation," she said.“With autism now affecting 1 in every 88 American children and on the rise,Oregon'spolitical leaders recognized that doing nothing in the face of an epidemic was no longer an option.”

    The new law establishes requirements for state-regulated health plans to approve and manage autism treatment, including ABA and any other medical or mental health services identified in an individualized treatment plan.The law applies to kids who begin treatment before age 9, covering up to 25 hours of ABA per week, and continuing for as long as medically necessary regardless of age.

    A seven-member Behavior Analysis Regulatory Board will be created within the Oregon Health Licensing Agency to license providers.

    Existing Oregon laws requiring coverage of autism treatment continue to apply to older patients and those seeking more than 25 hours of ABA per week.

    The new law will also impactMedicaid coverage through the Oregon Health Plan. The Oregon Health Evidence Review Commission (HERC) is required toreview ABA in order toupdate the state's prioritized list of health services covered through Medicaid.HERC began the studybefore the bill was signed by Kitzhaber.

    The Oregon Health Plan must implement any new ABA services that HERC recommends by October 1, 2014, if new medical coding isn't required, and by April 1, 2015, if new coding is necessary.

    ABA has been endorsed as an evidence-based treatment for autism by the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the U.S. Surgeon General.

    Kitzhaber in July signed a related measure, SB.414, sponsored by Senator Chip Shields of Portland, which strengthens the enforcement powers of the state Insurance Division. The agency is now able to order health plans to pay restitution to consumers if they violate the law or their contracts. State regulators previously had very limited enforcement powers over the insurance industry which has an exemption under Oregon's anti-fraud laws.

    August 14, 2013

    Veterans with Lung Cancer May Qualify for VA Agent Orange Benefits - Disabilty.gov

    Veterans who were exposed to the herbicide Agent Orange while in the military and now have lung cancer may qualify for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care and disability compensation. Learn more about Agent Orange and to see if you are eligible for benefits because of diseases associated with Agent Orange exposure.


    EEOC Sues Hospital for Failing to Provide Accommodation & Firing Employee with Sleep Disorder - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has suedOhioHealth Corporation, doing business as Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, OH withdisability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The hospital allegedly failed to provide a reasonable accommodationfor an employee diagnosed withnarcolepsyto work one of the open day shifts. Instead, the hospital put her on medical leave and then fired her.


    New York State Hotline Gets Thousands of Abuse Claims in First Month - Disabilty.gov

    The NYS Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs was launched on June 30, 2013 to address abuse concerns in New York. The center is a law enforcement agency that protects the state's one million residents with disabilities. In its first month of operation, the center reported receiving over 7,200 reports to its 24-hour hotline. More than 1,300 of these neglect or abuse claims have required additional investigation.


    NBC's Mike Adamle to Host Easter Seals Fundraising Walk Event To Benefit Families Living With Autism and Other Disabilities - PRNewswire

    Chicago sports anchor kicks off the nonprofit's Chicagoland Walk With Me event CHICAGO, Aug. 14, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, Easter Seals national headquarters announced NBC's sports anchor and former Chicago Bears running back Mike Adamle will be kicking off registration...



    National Federation of the Blind Releases Analysis of Section 511 - PRNewswire

    Former DOJ Official Says Proposal is "Stunning Step Backward," Undermines Olmstead BALTIMORE, Aug. 14, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind today released a legal analysis prepared at the organization's request by Samuel R. Bagenstos,...



    Raising More Than $90K on Indiegogo, SunGod Sunglasses Launches #Vision:Giving Campaign to Support International Blindness Charity - PRNewswire

    LOS ANGELES, Aug. 14, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- SunGod Sunglasses (www.SunGod.co) surpassed $90,000 on its Indiegogo campaign this week. In celebration, they have extended their campaign to launch #Vision:Giving, their charitable campaign to help restore sight, prevent blindness and promote...



    A Community-based PAR Approach to Understanding Violence Against People with Developmental Disabilities (MT UCEDD) - AUCD
    Discussion of interpersonal violence, including sexual, physical, and disability-related abuse, is a highly sensitive topic. Dr. Hughes and her team enabled research participants to adapt the process so that they could accurately and safely answer survey questions. One participant remarked, "The fact that I was asked my opinion speaks volumes."

    'Admissions' and 'Laws' Tipsheets from the Maine UCEDD and P&A are Now Included in New FPG CONNECT Module on Early Childhood Inclusion - AUCD
    "Our goal was to provide child care professionals with accurate information that would help them to make informed enrollment decisions that support the access and participation of children with disabilities in their settings. The quality of these Admissions and Laws tipsheets is a direct reflection of our shared knowledge, expertise and commitment to collaboration," notes the series coordinator.

    Dr. JoAnn Yuen Appointed Associate Director of the University of Hawaii Center on Disability Studies (MS UCEDD) - AUCD
    Effective August 1, 2013: Dr. JoAnn W. L. Yuen is the new Associate Director of the Center on Disability Studies (CDS) at the University of Hawai'i. This position is newly established, general-funded, and tenure track, demonstrating the University's commitment to the UCEDD.
    August 13, 2013

    Sony, Amazon Want Accessibility Exemption - DisabiltyScoop
    Some of the biggest names in technology are asking the Federal Communications Commission for a pass when it comes to making all of their products accessible to people with disabilities.

    Health Care Law Presents Complex Choices For People With Disabilities - DisabiltyScoop
    Even once the Affordable Care Act is fully implemented, experts say that coverage of many treatments that people with disabilities rely on may vary widely.

    Inducing Labor May Increase Autism Risk - DisabiltyScoop
    In the largest study of its kind, researchers say they've found a higher risk of autism among children whose births were induced or sped up.

    Obama On UN Disability Treaty: ‘Get It Done' - DisabiltyScoop
    President Barack Obama is making a new push for the United States to ratify an international disability rights treaty.
    August 12, 2013

    In Memoriam: Morris Green, MD - AUCD
    Dr. Green was a nationally renowned pediatrician, inspiring educator, and prolific author. He was the Founding Director (1970) of the Indiana LEND, then University Affiliated Facility or UAF, and a pioneer in Behavioral Pediatrics and family centered care.

    Kaiser to Reimburse CA Families $9.3 million for ABA, Speech - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Insurer settles class action suit claiming mental health parity law violations

    August 12, 2013

    LOS ANGELES (Aug. 12, 2013) -- California families denied coverage by Kaiser Permanente for applied behavior analysis (ABA) and speech therapy for their childrenwith autismbetween 2004 and 2012 can apply forup to $9.3 million reimbursement for their out-of-pocket expenses and debts, under a class action lawsuit settlement.

    Kaiser agreed to set up the fund to settle the lawsuit, which was brought in state Superior Courton behalf of Andrew Arce of Los Angeles who was 2 years old when Kaiser denied claims for his ABA treatment. The settlement covers out-of-pocket expenses and debts incurredbetween April 8, 2004 and June 30, 2012 for children diagnosed with autism.

    The lawsuit alleged thatKaiser improperly denied coverage for ABA and speech therapyfor children with autismunder the terms of its contracts and the California Mental Health Parity Act. The class action is one of several filed around the nation charging health plans with violating state mental health parity laws by denying claims on the basis of an autism diagnosis.

    An explanation of the settlement is here

    A copy of the claim form is here


    Police Officers To Stake Out Dunkin' Donuts Rooftops To Support Special Olympics Wisconsin, Friday, August 16 - PRNewswire
    MILWAUKEE, Aug. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Law enforcement officers throughout the state will stake out Dunkin' Donuts rooftops to benefit Special Olympics Wisconsin, on Friday, August 16, beginning at 6 a.m. through 11 a.m. That morning, for the second year in a row, dedicated police...

    Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind Announces 3rd Annual Light the Way 5K - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, Aug. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind (CLB) will host its third annual Light the Way 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, September 28, 2013, at Nationals Park, benefiting programs and services CLB provides to people of all ages who are...

    Her Highness Sheikha Arwa Al Qassimi and Sightsavers Join Forces to Organize Benefit Concert and Raise Money for the Visually Impaired - PRNewswire

    MUMBAI, India, Aug. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- On June 28, Sightsavers (http://www.sightsaversindia.in/) organized a world-class concert and fundraising event for the visually impaired in India's most populous city, Mumbai. "Ability of Disability—A Night of Melody" featured...



    Kansas Parents Gear Up For Another Run at Insurance Reform - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Kansas City Star examines life in one of few remaing states that doesn't require autism coverage

    August 12, 2013

    KANSAS CITY (Aug. 12, 2013) -- The Kansas City Star offers a portrait of life in Kansas, one of just 17 remaining states yet to require insurance coverage for autism, though the experience of a family left without coverage for their daughter.

    The Star reports that Kansas House Speaker Ray Merrick has vowed to get autism insurance reform through the Legislature whether or not the insurance industry is willing to compromise. In 2012, an autism insurance reform bill fell just a few votes short of passage in the Senate; this year, the bill never got a hearing.

    “The gamesmanship has really been disheartening, to say the least, for parents who are essentially going bankrupt trying to pay for this out of pocket,” said Mike Wasmer, Autism Speaks' associate director for state government affairs and aKansas resident with a daughter on the autism spectrum.

    Read the story here

    August 11, 2013

    Job Recruitment Program for Students with Disabilities Facing Budget Cuts - Disabilty.gov

    The Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP) recruits college students and recent graduates with disabilities to work in the federal government. Up until 2013, more than 450 participants in the program were placed in federal jobs each year. However, in January of 2013, the Office of the Secretary of Defense decided to freeze program funding due to sequestration. It is not known if the WRP will be funded for the 2014 hiring season.


    Justice Department Signs Agreement with Fort Morgan, CO to Make Buildings, Services Accessible - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has signed an agreement with thecity of Fort Morgan, CO,to improve access to public buildings, programs and sevices for individuals with disabilities. The agreement is part of Project Civic Access,the department's effort to make sure that counties, cities and towns comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.The city will make the animal shelter, cemetery, city hall, library and museum, police department and airport accessible.


    Fake Service Dog Gear Creates Problems - DisabiltyScoop
    Disability advocates are asking the Justice Department to crack down as fake service dog vests and credentials for use with ordinary pets proliferate.
    August 9, 2013

    Study Points To Bullying Risk Factors For Kids With Autism - DisabiltyScoop
    Kids with autism are more likely to be bullied as they get older but the odds of victimization are influenced by a variety of factors, new research suggests.

    Cryptic Leaflet Threatens To Expose ‘Disabled' - DisabiltyScoop
    In what officials are calling the work of a hate group, fliers have appeared in several Portland, Ore. neighborhoods threatening to out people with disabilities who receive government aid.

    My American Dream Video Contest - Deadline September 10 - Disabilty.gov

    The National Disability Institute is accepting entries for its 3rd annual “My American Dream - Voices of Americans with Disabilities” video contest. Contestants with disabilities create a three-minute video telling their story and steps to achieving their American dream. Upload your video onto YouTube and email the URL, your name and phone number. One winner will receive $1,000, a digital tablet and sessions with a mentor. Submit entries by September 10, 2013.

    August 8, 2013

    AUCD Participates in an ADA Anniversary Meeting at the White House, Sends Thank You Letter and Recommendations - AUCD
    On July 25, 2013, AUCD's Executive Director George Jesien, PhD, was one of several disability organizations invited to participate in a meeting with President Obama to discuss issues important to the disability community. A thank you letter was sent after the meeting reviewing the topics discussed and recommendations made during the meeting. Download and read that letter here.

    Developmental Disabilities Institute (MI UCEDD) Hosts U.S. Department of State Delegates from Tajikistan - AUCD
    The Professional Fellows EMPOWER Program, administered by Mobility International USA (MIUSA) and sponsored by the US State Department, is a two-way international exchange program aiming to expand the capacity of organizations in the U.S. and abroad to promote inclusive communities and advance the rights of persons with disabilities around the world. From August 29 to September 5, 2013, the DDI's Angela Martin will be a representative to Tajikistan to participate in a preliminary exchange visit to build the foundation for a collaborative project and effective international relationship.

    Daniel Armstrong, Director of University of Miami Miller School of Medicines Mailman Center for Child Development (UCEDD/LEND) Appointed Chair of Florida Biomedical Research Advisory Council - AUCD
    Daniel Armstrong, Ph.D., professor and Executive Vice Chair of Pediatrics, has been elected Chair of the Florida Biomedical Research Advisory Council (BRAC). Armstrong represents the American Cancer Society on the BRAC.

    ND UCEDD Staff Present at Nordic - US International Conference on Intellectual Disabilities - AUCD
    In June, staff from the North Dakota Center for Persons with Disabilities (NDCPD) presented at the Nordic - US International Conference on Intellectual Disabilities and attended a series of meetings in Oslo, Trondheim and Lysoya, Norway. The conference consisted of two days of presentations and discussion on topics of human rights and community living conditions for people with intellectual disabilities.

    Find Affordable Health Coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace Beginning October 1 - Disabilty.gov

    The Health Insurance Marketplace will give you all the options available for health insurance in your area. You can compare plans based on price, benefits, quality and other features. It will also tell you if you qualify for Medicaidor theChildren's Health Insurance Program. While all insurance plans are offered by private companies, the Marketplace is run by either your state or the federal government. Open enrollment starts October 1, 2013.Coverage starts January 1, 2014.


    National Governors Association Outlines Plans to Help States Increase Employment of People with Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    A new report, "A Better Bottom Line: Employing People with Disabilities",outlines the National Governors Association's initiatives to increase employment among individuals with intellectual and other significant disabilities. It describes the role that state government and business can play in assisting and advancing opportunities for these individuals to be gainfully employed. The initiative will provide governors and state policymakers with strategies designed to support this population.


    EmblemHealth and Advance Care Alliance, LLC Announce Collaboration to Manage Integrated Services For Persons With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - PRNewswire
    NEW YORK, Aug. 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- EmblemHealth, the largest New York-based health insurer, and Advance Care Alliance (ACA), a newly formed entity owned in partnership by Advance of Greater New York, LLC; Alliance Care Network, LLC and Long Island Alliance, LLC comprised of more...

    Governor Corbett: Keystone Communities Grant to Provide Housing Modifications for Individuals with Disabilities - PRNewswire
    HARRISBURG, Aug. 8, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Corbett administration today awarded a $250,000 Keystone Communities Accessible Housing grant that will help Allegheny County residents living with permanent physical disabilities to make modifications to their homes....

    OfficeMax Joins Forces with Aspire, Kessler Foundation to Expand Employment Programs for People with Disabilities - PRNewswire
    NAPERVILLE, Ill., Aug. 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- OfficeMax® (NYSE: OMX), a leading provider of office and facility supplies, technology and services, this week joined Kessler Foundation, Aspire of Illinois, the Association of People Supporting EmploymentFirst (APSE), the Rehabilitation...

    Alongside Monet, Amazon Features Artists With Special Needs - DisabiltyScoop
    As Amazon.com enters the world of fine art this week, the Internet retail giant is putting a spotlight on artists with developmental disabilities.
    August 7, 2013

    WizIQ Virtual Classroom Is Section 508 Compliant; Accessible to Individuals With Disabilities - PRNewswire

    ROYALSTON, Massachusetts, August 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- WizIQ announced the upgraded version of its Virtual Classroom to make it compliant with the Section 508 of the U.S. Rehabilitation Act. This optimization has been done to ensure accessibility of the WizIQ Virtual Classroom for...



    Parent ‘Optimism Training' May Reduce Behavior Problems - DisabiltyScoop
    Providing "optimism training" to parents of children with developmental disabilities who struggle with challenging behavior appears to go a long way, researchers say.

    Justice Department Settles with Police Department to Improve Communications with People Who Are Deaf, Hard of Hearing - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has reached a settlement agreement with the city of Henderson, NV under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Individuals who are deaf complained that the city's police did not provide sign language interpreters and other aids and services for effective communication. One of the individuals had been arrested and the other was an alleged crime victim. The city has agreed to train its staff on the ADA.


    National Federation of the Blind of Maryland Holds Local Braille Training Program for Blind Children - PRNewswire
    BALTIMORE, August 7, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland (NFBMD) is currently holding a two-week Braille training program for blind children through August 9, 2013. The Braille Enrichment through Literacy and Learning (BELL) program is...

    ManpowerGroup Sponsors Wounded Warrior Amputee VS. Green Bay Packer and NFL Alumni Flag Football Challenge - PRNewswire

    MILWAUKEE, Aug. 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- ManpowerGroup, the world leader in innovative workforce solutions and proud supporter of military veterans, will sponsor the first Wounded Warrior vs. Green Bay Packer/NFL Alumni Flag Football Challenge, to be held Saturday, August 10 at 6 p.m....


    August 6, 2013

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Hotline Nets Thousands Of Abuse Claims - DisabiltyScoop
    One month after launching a hotline to report neglect and abuse of people with disabilities, one state has logged more than 7,200 tips.

    Governors Put Focus On People With Disabilities - DisabiltyScoop
    With a newly-released blueprint, the nation's governors are looking at how they can help boost employment among people with disabilities.

    Congressman Raises Over $27,000 at Bike to the Beach - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Rep. Mike Doyle leads team to second highest fundraising total

    August 06, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (August 6, 2013) -- U.S. Representative Mike Doyle, a Democrat representing Pittsburgh, led his Bike to the Beach team on a 104-mile bike ride from Washington to Dewey Beach, DE, beating its fundraising goal of $25,000for Autism Speaks.

    Doyle [center in Pirates' hat], who cofounded the Congressional Autism Caucus 12 years ago with Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), raised $27,708, the second highest totalduring the annual charity event. Doyle's team included his brother Pat, his son Kevin and nephew Cameron.

    Bike to the Beach was created in 2007 as a non-profit to raise awareness of biking as a viable transportation alternative. The group chose autism as its fundraising cause andadditionalBike to the Beach events were created in New York and Boston.

    Doyle and Smith have helped grow the Congressional Autism Caucus to180 Members of Congress from both parties. "Our caucus is dedicated to raising awareness about autism, providing a forum for policy discussions, promoting research funding, and developing legislative solutions to ease the burden of families affected by autism," Doyle said.


    FREAK: Memoir of an Outcast Goes Viral - PRNewswire

    NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- A new book, and the video by its author, are causing a stir in Cyberspace. Can the movie (Mask meets Elephant Man) be far behind? (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130806/PH59379 ) Imagine having your face disappear at birth, and...



    60,000 Rubber Ducks Will Splash into the Chicago River Aug. 8 for Special Olympics Illinois - PRNewswire
    Ducks Still Available for Adoption – 1st Prize is a Chevy Malibu CHICAGO, Aug. 6, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- All eyes will be on the Columbus Drive Bridge over the Chicago River in Chicago at 1 p.m. this Thursday, August 8, when 60,000 yellow rubber ducks pour into the...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    NGA Issues Blueprint for Employing People with Disabilities - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Initiative of Delaware Gov. Markell designed to raise awareness

    August 05, 2013

    MILWAUKEE (August 5, 2013) -- The National Governors Association (NGA) issued A Better Bottom Line: Employing People with Disabilities, an initiative by Delaware Gov. Jack Markell to raise awareness of the challenges faced by Americans with disabilities, including autism, in finding meaningful employment.

    Markell chose the issue as hisinitiative during his one-yearterm asNGA chair. The report was issued shortly after the U.S. Department of Labor issued July employment data showing that, while unemployment overall dipped to 7.4 percent, the rate for those with disabilities rose from 14.2 percent to 14.7 percent.

    “My initiative was designed to raise awareness about how the untapped talents of people with disabilities can contribute to a business's bottom line,”Markell said. “A Better Bottom Line: Employing People with Disabilities looks at ways both state government and businesses can partner to bring opportunities to individuals with disabilities in the competitive labor market.We're making strides on this front, but the work is far from over."

    The report's"Blueprint for Governors" was issued at the NGA's summer meeting held here. It wascreated from a series ofevents and meetings held over the past 12 months and recommends practical stepsgovernors can take to advance employment opportunities for people with disabilities in their states.

    The final report issued five action items specific to governors:

    • Incorporatingdisability employment into astate's workforce development strategy
    • Identifying and supportingbusinesses that employ people with disabilities
    • Make state governmenta model employer by increasing the number of employees with disabilities
    • Prepare youth with disabilities for working careers, providing employers with a pipeline of skilled workers
    • Managelimited public resources to best advance employment opportunities for people with disabilities
    August 5, 2013

    EEOC Sues Medical Center for Denying Job to Employee Because of Age & Disability - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has chargedWeirton Medical Center with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). The Weirton, WV-based hospital refused to select a long-time employee for a vacant position because of his age and apparent isability. The employee had a back impairment at the time that he applied for the job. This type of conduct violates theAge Discrimination in Employment Act and the ADA.


    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Woman With Down Syndrome Prevails In Guardianship Dispute - DisabiltyScoop
    In a closely-watched case centering on the rights of adults with disabilities, a Virginia woman has won the right to live with her friends rather than in a group home as her parents preferred.

    With Training, Most With Autism Land Jobs - DisabiltyScoop
    When offered intensive, specialized training, a new study finds that young people with autism -- even those with challenging behaviors -- can be highly successful on the job.

    EEOC Sues Manufacturing Company for Firing Cancer Survivor - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has chargedKyklos Bearing International, LLC (KBI) with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Cleveland, OH-based manufacturer allegedly fired an employee based on her status as a cancer survivor. KBI said it fired the employee because she had medical restrictions that limited her ability to lift, but her doctor had cleared her to work without any restrictions.


    Social Security to Stop Using Term Mental Retardation - Disabilty.gov

    The Social Security Administration (SSA) has released a final rule to replace the term "mental retardation" with "intellectual disability" in its Listings of Impairments. SSA uses the listings toevaluate claims involving mental disorders in adults and children under the Social Security Act. This final rule will become effective September 3, 2013.


    Justice Department Settles Discrimination Suit with St. Peters, MO over Home for Women with Intellectual Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has settled its lawsuit against the city of St. Peters, MO for allegedly violating the Fair Housing Act(FHA) and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA) when it denied a zoning request to operate a group home for four women with intellectual disabilities. Residents have the right to live in housing of their choice. The settlement requires the city to provide training on the FHA and ADA to city employees.


    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...
    August 4, 2013

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...
    August 3, 2013

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...
    August 2, 2013

    Veterans Filing Fully Developed Claims (FDC) Can Get A Year of Retroactive Disability Benefits - Disabilty.gov

    Veterans filing a FDC for service-connected disability compensation may be entitled to up to one-year of retroactive disability benefits. These retroactive benefits are in effect from August 6, 2013, through August 5, 2015. FDCs can be filed through the joint U.S. departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs online portal,eBenefits. Veterans who cannot file online should work with an accredited Veterans Service Organization that can file claims digitally for Veterans.


    Court Rules in Favor of EEOC in Age & Disability Discrimination Lawsuit against Petroleum Company - Disabilty.gov

    The U. S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit has reversed a trial court's decision in favor ofDynMcDermott Petroleum Operations Company (DM). The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) had sued DM for alleged discrimination for not hiring an applicant because he was older and his wife had cancer. The Fifth Circuit Court ruled in favor of the EEOC stating that the EEOC's claims were valid under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act.


    EEOC Sues Medical Center for Firing Employee after Cancer Treatment - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has chargedMidwest Regional Medical Center of Oklahoma with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The hospital offered an employee a leave of absence to undergo cancer treatment. The employee decided to keep working, but took two days off after getting sick from the treatment. The hospital then placed her on leave with a return date, but fired her before that date.


    Disability Facts & Figures from the U.S. Census Bureau - Disabilty.gov

    July 26 was the 23rd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the U.S. Census Bureau has compiled this information about the number of people with disabilities in the U.S., where they live, how many are working, and more.


    Plan de atención médica comienza a prestar servicios a los beneficiarios mayores y discapacitados de Medicaid en las áreas de Orlando y Melbourne - PRNewswire
    SUNRISE, Florida, 2 de agosto de 2013 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- Sunshine State Health Plan, una Organización de Mantenimiento de la Salud (HMO) radicada en Sunrise, hoy comenzó a prestar servicios a los débiles beneficiarios mayores y discapacitados de Medicaid...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Labor Department Finds More With Disabilities Unemployed - DisabiltyScoop
    Even as the economy added 162,000 jobs last month, the U.S. Department of Labor said Friday that Americans with disabilities continued to struggle in the job market.

    Social Security To Drop ‘Mental Retardation' - DisabiltyScoop
    The Social Security Administration will become the latest federal agency to start using the term "intellectual disability" in lieu of "mental retardation."

    A Better Bottom Line: Employing People with Disabilities - AUCD
    During his tenure as chair of the National Governors Association, Governor Jack Markell decided to focus his chairmanship on increasing employment for people with disabilities. The "A Better Bottom Line: Employing People with Disabilities" website went live on 08-02-13.

    2013 APHA Disability Section Scholarships - AUCD
    The Disability Section of the American Public Health Association (APHA) announces up to four $1000 Career Enhancement Scholarship opportunities for 2013. These scholarships can be used by the awardees as desired, including to defray expenses for attendance at the Disability Section Scientific Program and Business meeting at the 2013 American Public Health Association Annual meeting in Boston, MA from November 2-6, 2013.

    Health Disparities Conference Resources Now Online (OHSU UCEDD) - AUCD
    'Health Disparities Research at the Intersection of Race, Ethnicity, and Disability: A National Conference' was held April 25-26 in Washington, DC. Sponsored by AUCD, AHRQ, and the Special Hope Foundation, it brought together researchers and advocates in both the disability field and the racial and ethnic health disparities field. The goal was to focus increased attention on the health and healthcare needs of people with disabilities in underserved racial and ethnic groups.

    Iowa DD Network Partners and Local Grassroots Organization Hosted a Successful Self-Advocacy Event - AUCD
    On June 13 and 14, Peer Action Disability Support (PADS) hosted Iowa's first-ever self-advocacy summit. Nearly 60 self-advocates representing seven organizations attended.

    The Boggs Center (NJ UCEDD) Featured in Television Episode about Healthcare Needs of People with Developmental Disabilities - AUCD
    The Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and its collaborative programs with the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health and the Department of Pediatrics are featured in an episode of HealthBeat with Sara Lee Kessler which aired on WHYY (PBS Philadelphia) and NJTV in April and May. The episode about health care needs of people with developmental disabilities profiles The Boggs Center's unique training programs for medical students in the pediatrics rotation and family medicine residents, which focus on developmental disabilities, family-centered care, and treating all patients with dignity.

    Award Winning Possibilities Video Series from MI UCEDD Adds Two New Stories - AUCD
    The series now contains six, 5-7 minute videos depicting the lives and accomplishments of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, highlighting how self-determination and community inclusion can benefit persons with and without disabilities. The videos are intended for anyone interested in making the lives of individuals with disabilities as fulfilling and worthwhile as possible.

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...
    August 1, 2013

    Justice Department Sues Florida Doctor, Medical Practice for Retaliating against Deaf Couple - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Dr. Hal Brown and Primary Care of the Treasure Coast of Vero Beach, FLfor violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).The doctor and the practice allegedly refused to continue to treat a deaf couple after learning that they had filed a lawsuit against a hospital for not providing sign language interpreter services. It violates the ADA to retaliate against individuals exercising their rights under the law.


    Healthcare plan begins serving elderly and disabled Medicaid recipients in Orlando and Melbourne areas - PRNewswire
    SUNRISE, Fla., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunshine State Health Plan, a Sunrise-based HMO, today began serving frail elderly and disabled Medicaid recipients in the Orlando and Melbourne areas as part of the first phase of the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Long-term Care (LTC)...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Following Controversy, Girl With Disability Receives Transplant - DisabiltyScoop
    A New Jersey girl who made national news when her parents said she was denied a life-saving organ transplant due to her intellectual disability has now received a new kidney.
    July 31, 2013

    HHS Celebrates 48th Anniversary of Medicare by Revealing Big Savings for Seniors - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is celebrating the 48th anniversary of the signing of Medicare and Medicaid into law with new information showing a strong Medicare program. Under the Affordable Care Act, more than 6.6 million people with Medicare have saved over $7 billion on prescription drugs. Savings average $1,061 per person in the Medicare Part D "donut hole."Also, 16.5 million people have had at least one free preventive service in the first half of 2013.


    Empower Network Sponsors 100,000 Homes - PRNewswire

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., July 31, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Software and web marketing company Empower Network has announced a new sponsorship with the 100,000 Homes Campaign. (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130731/MN56472) In 2010, Community Solutions launched the 100,000...



    NFB STEM-X Taking Place at Towson University - PRNewswire

    BALTIMORE, July 31, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind, under the auspices of its National Center for Blind Youth in Science, is conducting a week-long program for fifty blind students in grades 8-12 from across the country at Towson University this week....



    Goodwill Car Donation Now Accepting New Jersey Car Donations, Chicago Car Donations, New York Car Donations, Rhode Island Car Donations, and North Carolina Car Donations - PRNewswire

    WASHINGTON, July 31, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- "Charity begins at home," and there is no better way to help oneself while doing a great service to others than by making a car donation to Goodwill.  Goodwill Car Donations is now accepting used vehicle donations in Chicago, Georgia,...



    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    NY Clears Roadblock to ABA Insurance Coverage - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Cuomo administration eliminates bureaucratic hurdle that frustrated 2011 autism insurance reform law

    July 31, 2013

    ALBANY (July 31, 2013) -- After months of pressure from the state's autism community and Legislature, the Cuomo administration has dropped a regulatory requirement that has blocked families from gaining the insurance coverage for applied behavior analysis(ABA) they were promised under New York's 2011 autism insurance reform law.

    "The road is now clear for thousands of New York families to finallyaffordABA treatmentfor their children with autism," said Lorri Unumb, Autism Speaks vice president for state government affairs. "Autism Speaks commends Governor Cuomo and our legislative champions, Assemblyman Joe Morelle and Senator Chuck Fuschillo, for working with New York families toovercome this impasse."

    ABA, an intensive one-on-onetreatment, can cost tens of thousands of dollars a year, a crushing financial burden for families in the absence of insurance coverage.

    The issueinvolvedregulations issued last November just as the state's autism insurance reform law took effect.The state Department of Financial Services (DFS) required that ABA practitionersobtain a state license in order to qualify forinsurance reimbursement under the newlaw.New York has no ABA license.

    Autism Speaks, through its Legal Resource Center,urged the state agency to drop the licensing requirement earlier this year, arguing it was in clear violation of the 2011 law whichspecifiedthat national certificationby the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)would be sufficient for ABA practitionersto provide services in New York.

    When DFS proceeded with the regulations, Autism Speaks and other advocates, such as the New York State Association for Behavior Analysis(NYSABA) worked withMorelle and Fuschillo to introduce legislation creating a New York ABA license. The two lawmakersmanaged fast passage of the licensing bill through both houses of the Legislature in June.

    With the licensing bill about to be presented to Governor Cuomo, DFS, which had continued working with Autism Speaks and other advocates,issued a new regulation making clear that BACB certification, as specified under the original 2011 law, would now be sufficient. The new regulations took immediate effect, enabling families with state-regulated health insurance coverage to now access affordable ABA care for their children with autism.


    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Obamas To Chair Special Olympics World Games - DisabiltyScoop
    The president and first lady will serve as honorary chairs when the Special Olympics World Games return to the United States in 2015, organizers say.
    July 30, 2013

    People with Diabetes May Face Higher Disability Risk - Disabilty.gov

    A recent study in “The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology” finds that people with diabetes face more than a 50 percent higher risk of disability than people without the disease. The odds of someone with diabetes having a mobility disability, such as trouble walking, were 71 percent higher than for someone without diabetes. The study highlights the importance of focusing on disease prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes.


    Local Car Dealership Supports Handicap Children's Playground Efforts - PRNewswire

    KENOSHA, Wis., July 30, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- We all remember being able to go to a local playground growing up. Playing in a sandbox with our siblings, a game of tetherball with a friend or being pushed on the swing by mom or dad. These were times that made up a very special part...



    College Living Experience Marks 7th Graduation Ceremony For CLE Austin - PRNewswire

    AUSTIN, Texas, July 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- College Living Experience (CLE), a national organization founded to help students with special learning needs achieve post-secondary education and independent-living skills, today announced its seventh graduation ceremony for CLE...



    Deaf community and people with low literacy benefit from accessible video on discrimination - PRNewswire
    OTTAWA, July 30, 2013 /CNW/ - People who are Deaf or have low literacy now have a new tool to access information on human rights. A new video, entitled "Your Guide to Understanding the Canadian Human Rights Act," provides information on human rights in American Sign Language (ASL),...

    Generation Rescue partners with Chef Jimi and "Cooking with a Cause" to help Parents of Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - PRNewswire

    LOS ANGELES, July 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to help families coping with the overwhelming situation of raising a child with ASD or other special dietary needs, accomplished chef Jimi Taylor, in partnership with Generation Rescue, is making a difference with a new...



    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Siblings Impacted By Disabilities Too, Study Finds - DisabiltyScoop
    Siblings of children with disabilities are more likely than those with typically developing brothers or sisters to struggle with relationships, schoolwork, behavior and leisure time.

    Claim: Airline Forced Man With Special Needs To Crawl - DisabiltyScoop
    A Hawaii man who relies on a wheelchair says that Delta Air Lines left him no choice but to crawl on and off its airplanes more than once, according to a federal lawsuit.

    FDA Accepts Tasimelteon New Drug Application For Priority Review In The Treatment Of Non-24-Hour Disorder In The Totally Blind - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, July 29, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc. (VANDA) (NASDAQ: VNDA) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted the filing and granted a priority review classification to Vanda's New Drug Application (NDA) for...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Subminimum Wage Plan Divides Disability Advocates - DisabiltyScoop
    Disability advocates are split over a proposal in the U.S. Senate that would establish limits on people with disabilities working for less than minimum wage.
    July 29, 2013

    Health & Human Services Secretary Releases Statement on 23rd Anniversary of the ADA - Disabilty.gov

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius' statement on the 23rd anniversary of theAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA)highlights the progress made in removing barriers for people with disabilities. People with disabilities are living independently in their communities, and have better access to education, employment, housing, public transportation and health care. In 2014, the Affordable Care Act will make it illegal for insurance companies to deny health coverage to people with pre-existing conditions.


    Assistant Secretary for Disability Employment Meets with Perkins School for the Blind Students - Disabilty.gov

    U.S. Assistant Secretary for Disability Employment Policy Kathleen Martinez visited with staff and students on July 19, 2013 at the Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown, MA. Martinez, who has been blind since birth, heads the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy which helps shape policy on employment issues for people with disabilities.


    Justice Department Settles with Clinic over Discrimination against People with HIV - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice, as part of its Barrier-Free Health Care Initiative,has settled withBarix Clinics under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The clinics allegedly discriminated against two individuals with HIV, one at itsLanghorne, PA facility and one at itsYpsilanti, MI facility, by denying them bariatric surgery. Barix has agreed to train its staff on the ADA and begin an anti-discrimination policy.


    Justice Department Sues Florida for Segregating Children with Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the state of Florida for allegedly violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Under Florida's service system, children with significant medical needs are provided services in nursing facilities when they could be served in their family's homes or in community settings. The ADA and the Supreme Court's decision inOlmstead v. L.C.requires states to stop unnecessary segregation of persons with disabilities.


    National Federation of the Blind: Workforce Investment Act Sabotages Rehabilitation Act - PRNewswire

    BALTIMORE, July 29, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind, the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind people, expressed its strong opposition to changes to the Rehabilitation Act contained in the proposed Workforce Investment Act (S.1356),...



    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    For Boys With Autism, Video Gaming Can Be Problematic - DisabiltyScoop
    Boys with autism are spending much more time playing video games than their typically developing peers and are at higher risk for gaming to be problematic or addictive, researchers say.
    July 28, 2013

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...
    July 27, 2013

    4 Different Stories - 4 Heroes with Brain Injury - PRNewswire
    Support the Walk, Run & Roll for Thought to prevent Brain Injuries The #1 Cause of Death and Disability in our State SEATTLE, July 26, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Join us July 28th at Magnuson Park, Shelter #2.  Registration begins at 8:00 a.m., with opening...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    FCC Celebrates 23rd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act - Disabilty.gov

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) commemorates the 23rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Actby highlighting its own efforts to carry out the accessibility provisions of the Communications Act. President Barack Obama signed the Twenty-first Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) into law on October 8, 2010. The CVAA makes sure that people with disabilities have equal access to Internet communication and video programming technologies of the 21st century.


    Presidential Proclamation on the 23rd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act - Disabilty.gov

    Proclamation by President Barack Obama on the 23rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA protects the rights of Americans with disabilities and breaks down barriers to provide more opportunities for people with disabilities in their community, at work and where they live. The Administration is working hard to level the playing field for Americans with disabilities byrecruiting, hiring and retaining workers with disabilities.


    Report Reviews Impact of 2008 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Amendments Act - Disabilty.gov

    The National Council on Disability's new report "A Promising Start: Preliminary Analysis of Court Decisions Under the ADA Amendments Act,"reviews the court decisions that have been made under the ADA Amendments Act of 2008. The report shows that there have been significant improvements in how courts are interpreting protections under the ADA.

    July 26, 2013

    Medicare Policies Restricting Power Wheelchair Repairs Leave Vulnerable Beneficiaries with Limited Mobility - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, July 26, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- For years, William Welch, 58, was a truck driver, a free spirit traveling along the roads. But now Welch spends his days in a Brunswick, Md. apartment, barely able to move from a chair to the refrigerator because his Medicare-supplied...

    All Time Medical awarded a Google Trusted Store badge. - PRNewswire
    MONSEY, N.Y., July 26, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- All Time Medical, www.alltimemedical.com ,  is an 8 year old company that has all your home medical supplies. They have a reputation as one of the largest and oldest medical supply on line stores in their industry. Because of their...

    Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition Announces Its 2013 Award Recipients On The 23rd Anniversary Of The Americans With Disabilities Act - PRNewswire
    DENVER, July 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, on  the 23rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition (CCDC) with generous support from many organizations including Colorado Access and Rocky Mountain Health Plans Accountable Care...

    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    Study: 1 In 4 With Cerebral Palsy In Pain - DisabiltyScoop
    Many children and teens with cerebral palsy are struggling with chronic pain, researchers say, but it often goes unrecognized and untreated.

    Zoos Offering Rare Access For Those With Special Needs - DisabiltyScoop
    Zoos from California to Illinois are going to great lengths to allow kids with disabilities unique access to some of the wildest animals on the planet.

    UCP CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY OF AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT - UPC
    UCP CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY OF AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT 2013-07-26 10:24:35

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    CONTACT:

    Kaelan Richards: 202-973-7175, krichards@ucp.org

    UCP CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY OF AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT

    Landmark legislation signed into law 23 years ago

    Washington, DC (July 26, 2013) – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) released the following statement today in observance of the 23rd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), into law. This landmark piece of legislation stated that all Americans, regardless of ability, were afforded the same access rights.

    “The signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act was a tremendous step forward for all Americans, and particularly for the disability community, but there is still much progress to be made in achieving the equality in access the law guarantees. In areas such as education, health care and employment, United Cerebral Palsy and many others in the disability community are still working to ensure that Americans with disabilities have the supports, services and access they need,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of UCP. “And so today, twenty-three years after the ADA made history, we urge everyone to keep fighting, advocating and pushing for the fair and full citizenship for people with disabilities.”

    Learn more about UCP and how we are working to ensure a life without limits for people with disabilities, and join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.

    # # #

    About United Cerebral Palsy

    United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) educates, advocates and provides support services through an affiliate network to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. Together with nearly 100 affiliates, UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day—one person at a time, one family at a time. UCP works to enact real change—to revolutionize care, raise standards of living and create opportunities—impacting the lives of millions living with disabilities. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society. Together, with parents and caregivers, UCP will continue to push for the social, legal and technological changes that increase accessibility and independence, allowing people with disabilities to dream their own dreams, for the next 60 years, and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ucp.org.


    Autism Speaks Analyzes Military's New ABA Policies - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    TRICARE coverage for active and non-active members is reviewed

    July 26, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (July 26, 2013) --TRICARE, the healthcare program for military families, yesterday launched itspilot program to improve and expand its coverage of applied behavior analysis (ABA) for non-active personnel. Autism Speaks has analyzed the new program based on available information, and how all military personnel --active and non-active duty--may be impacted.

    Here is our summary:

    Last year Congress directed TRICARE to launch an ABApilot program to improve and expand its coverage for non-active personnel. TRICARE published its ABA Pilot policy last month for non-active duty family members -- but along with it came significant and drastic changes to existing ABA coverage for all beneficiaries with autism, including active duty military families.

    Last week, TRICARE stepped back, but not away, from this ill-conceived change in the policy for ABA. After a tremendous outcry from military families, service providers, and advocacy organizations, Dr. Jonathan Woodson, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs and director of the TRICARE Management Activity, assured military families that services under the TRICARE Basic program and the Enhanced Access to Autism Services Demonstration (ECHO Autism Demonstration) will not change.

    As of this writing, however, the new policy itself has not been modified. Oursummary here is based on Woodson's verbal assurances that the ECHO Autism Demonstration and the TRICARE Basic Program will not change.We will update the summary as developments warrant – please check back.

    Autism Speaks, meanwhile,remains concerned about the ABA Pilot for non-active duty family members. Specifically, these issues need to be addressed:

    • by requiring specific psychometric testing, including the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2), as a baseline measure before services can be provided, access to treatment for children may be delayed, possibly for several months
    • by using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, 2nd Edition (Vineland-II), to confirm progress in treatment – a function for which the test has not been validated – needed care could be denied to children who could benefit from ABA
    • arbitrary age and duration limits
    • discharge criteria
    • proper coverage of Assistant Behavior Analysts

    TRICARE should fix these and other defects the right way – by working with families and other stakeholders as partners.


    Staying Safe & Healthy in Hot Weather - Disabilty.gov

    Summer heat can be especially dangerous for older people and those with chronic health conditions. Learn the signs of heat-related illnesses and what steps to take to avoid them.


    Justice Department Settles with Louisiana Tech University over Inaccessible Teaching Materials - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has reached a settlement with Louisiana Tech University and the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System over alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The university allegedly violated the ADA by using an online learning product that was inaccessible to a blind student who ended up falling behind and dropping the course. The university has agreed to make its learning products accessible.


    Justice Department Signs Agreement with NYC So People with Mental Illness Can Reside in Their Communities Instead of Institutions - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice and the state of New York have entered into a settlement agreement under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Under the agreement, New York will offer supported housing to people with mental illness currently living in institutional, segregated settings. The Supreme Court's Olmstead v. L.C. decision states that people with disabilities have a civil right under the ADA to receive services in the most integrated setting suitable to their needs.


    Power in Numbers: A Profile of American Voters with Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    This study from the HSC Foundation used telephone and online survey data of people in the disability community to measure political engagement in the disability community. The survey found that people with disabilities and chronic conditions are as politically diverse as the general population. People with disabilities also vote in higher numbers and support candidates that support strengthening services for those with a disability. This link opens a PDF file.


    U.S. Census Bureau Daily Feature for July 26 - PRNewswire

    WASHINGTON, July 26, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Following is the daily "Profile America" feature from the U.S. Census Bureau: (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110428/DC91889LOGO) FRIDAY, JULY 26: DISABILITIES Profile America — Friday, July 26th.  On this date...



    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...
    July 25, 2013

    Celebrating 23 Years of the ADA - ADA Anniversary Week at the Department of Justice - Disabilty.gov

    Twenty-three years ago this week our nation established a comprehensive mandate to eliminate discrimination against people with disabilities by enacting the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Department of Justice is proud to play a critical role in enforcing the ADA and opening up the gateways to full participation and opportunity for people with disabilities.


    Abilities Expo -- The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities -- to Feature Push Girl's star, Auti Angel, along with an extensive Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Reliant Center, August 2-4 - PRNewswire
    HOUSTON, July, 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on August 2-4, 2013 at Reliant Center (Hall E). Admission is free and show hours...

    White House Honors Young Disability ‘Champions' - DisabiltyScoop
    As the nation marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the White House is honoring eight "next generation leaders" in the disability community.

    AUCD's 'Public Health is for Everyone' Site Wins Award - AUCD
    AUCD's "Public Health is for Everyone" site has been awarded the Bronze certificate for web-based resource tools by the Web Health Awards program. The Web Health Awards program is recognizes high-quality digital health resources for consumers and health professionals; entries are judged on content, format, success in reaching the targeted audience, and overall quality.

    Observing the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act - AUCD
    This Thursday, July 25, the White House Office of Public Engagement will host an event from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM (EDT) to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the ADA. We invite you to participate from your communities via the live web stream

    'Healthy Bodies' Toolkit Addresses Puberty in Adolescents with Developmental Disabilities - AUCD
    The 'Healthy Bodies: A Parent's Guide on Puberty for Adolescents with Disabilities' toolkit addresses the needs of these families and is a response to the limited number of practical resources about puberty and disabilities. The toolkit was developed by faculty and trainees at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities LEND.

    Stuttering Foundation: "By George, He Has Big Shoes to Fill!" - PRNewswire
    MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 24, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Jane Fraser, president of the Stuttering Foundation, www.StutteringHelp.org, had the following reaction to the naming of the most recent British heir to the monarchy: "By George, he has big shoes to fill! "King George...

    District of Columbia Signs On to Autism Insurance Reform - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Joins 33 states that now require coverage of ABA, other therapies

    July 24, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (June 4, 2013) --District of Columbia Mayor Vincent Gray has signed an insurance reform billrequiring coverage for applied behavior analysis (ABA) for autism through small group and individual policies starting next year.The District joins 33 states that have enacted autism insurance reform with a 34th state, Oregon, expected to follow shortly.

    The new law amends the District's American Health Benefit Exchange that starts operation in 2014under the Affordable Care Act. One of the changes is a requirement that all small group and individual plans cover habilitative services, including "applied behavior analysis for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder."

    Small groups are employer health plans with fewer than 50 members.

    Gray submitted the amendments to the District Councilin the Better Prices, Better Quality, Better Choices for Health Coverage Act of 2013.The changes, including ABA coverage, were recommended by the District of Columbia Health Benefit Exchange Authority in March.

    All individual and new small group health plans sold in the District starting in 2014 will have to operate through thenew health benefit exchange. Existing small group plans will be required to provide the Exchange's benefits in 2014, then operate through the Exchange in 2015.

    Minnesota last month became the 33rd state to enact autism insurance reform and the Oregon legislature has sent Gov. John Kitzhaber a bill that would make that state the 34th to enact reform.

    July 24, 2013

    National Federation of the Blind Praises DOJ Settlement with Louisiana Tech - PRNewswire

    BALTIMORE, July 24, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind, the nation's leading advocate for full access to higher education by the blind, today praised a settlement reached by the United States Department of Justice with Louisiana Tech University and...



    American Foundation for the Blind Announces Call for Nominations for 2014 Migel Medals - PRNewswire
    NEW YORK, July 24, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) announced an invitation for nominations for the 2014 Migel Medals, the highest honor in the blindness field. The Migel Medal was established in 1937 by the late M.C. Migel, the first...

    With Documentary, PBS Looks At Life On The Spectrum - DisabiltyScoop
    A new documentary set to premiere on PBS takes a look at life with autism from the perspective of those with the developmental disorder.
    July 23, 2013

    As the Americans with Disabilities Act Nears 23rd Anniversary, Federal Agency Assesses the Impact of 2008's ADA Amendments - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, July 23, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, the National Council on Disability (NCD), an independent federal agency, released a report titled "A Promising Start: Preliminary Analysis of Court Decisions Under the ADA Amendments Act," which reviews the court decisions...

    Easter Seals New York Awarded $500K Federal Grant To Launch Homeless Veterans Program - PRNewswire

    NEW YORK, July 23, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Easter Seals New York is pleased to announce a $500,000 federal grant from Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP) which it will use to launch a vocational program for homeless or at-risk of being homeless veterans in New York City...



    Google Gets Behind Autism Blood Test - DisabiltyScoop
    A company working to develop a blood test to identify children with autism is getting some major backing from Google Ventures.

    U.S. Census Bureau Facts for Features: Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act: July 26 - PRNewswire

    WASHINGTON, July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- This day marks the 23rd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which guarantees equal opportunity for people with disabilities in public accommodations, commercial facilities, employment, transportation,...



    Feds Sue Over Kids In Nursing Homes - DisabiltyScoop
    Federal officials are suing alleging that hundreds of children with disabilities are being unnecessarily segregated in nursing homes in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

    Rapper Sorry For ‘Offensive' Autism Lyric - DisabiltyScoop
    After making critical mentions about autism in a recently-released song, a hip-hop recording artist is apologizing.

    Utah ABA Pilot Program Draws Mixed Reviews - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    'Doing miracles' say some, others call it a 'dead end'

    July 22, 2013

    SALT LAKE CITY (July 21, 2013) -- In a series of interviews with Utah parents, The Salt Lake Tribune has found mixed reviews for the state's autism treatment pilot program. The Legislature created the Medicaid program to provide applied behavior analysis (ABA) treatment for up to 300 children with autism chosen through a lottery, rather than enact legislation requiring state-regulated health insurers to cover the therapy.

    In "Free autism treatment 'doing miracles' for some rural Utahns," the Tribune profiled Owen Kartchner, a three-year-old with autism with autism who lives with his parents ina remote section of southeastern Utah.Owen'sdiagnosis and the ABA pilot program are "doing miracles,"said his mother, Robyn Kartchner.

    "We have to be realistic," Kartchner said, referring to their life in a remote area. "We have this great opportunity, and I'm going to do as much as I can to make it successful."

    Other families, however, cited less positive experiences in "Utah families question quality of care in autism experiment."

    Jason Kava, a single dad caring for his three-year-old son with autism, JJ, said he was dropped by the ABA service provider after he questioned the quality of its care. He said the provider used inexperienced, unsupervisedtherapists, one of whom drove JJ 30 miles to her house without informing Kava.

    Another parent, Angela Vasquez, said she fired her provider thenput together her own plan for her daughter by downloading materials from the Internet.Thein-home tutor, Vasquez said,took personal phone calls, often left early or called in sick.

    July 22, 2013

    NFB of MA and Square, Inc. to Collaborate on Accessibility Enhancements to Square Register and Square Wallet - PRNewswire
    BOSTON, July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind of Massachusetts (NFB of MA), an affiliate of the largest nationwide organization of blind people in America, along with two of its members, Mika Pyyhkala and Lindsay Yazzolino, are working with...

    Addus HomeCare Announces Second Quarter 2013 Earnings Release and Conference Call - PRNewswire
    PALATINE, Ill., July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Addus HomeCare Corporation (Nasdaq:ADUS), a comprehensive provider of home and community based services focused primarily on the dual eligible population, announced today that it will release earnings for the second quarter ended June 30, 2013...

    NxStage Congratulates Home Dialyzors United for Securing Policies through the US Department of Transportation to Improve the Air Travel Experience for Home Dialyzors - PRNewswire

    LAWRENCE, Mass., July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- NxStage Medical, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXTM), a leading manufacturer of innovative dialysis products, congratulates Home Dialyzors United (HDU) for its work with the Department of Transportation that led to the issuing of Industry Guidance regarding...



    Military Families Stage Rally to Keep ABA - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Families meet in Virginia Beach to petition Congress for better TRICARE coverage

    July 22, 2013

    VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (July 21, 2013) -- Military families gathered in Virginia Beach over the weekend to start a petition drive urging Congress to require better insurance coverage for applied behavior analysis (ABA) treatment for autism. WAVY, the NBC affiliate in Hampton Roads, VA, reported on the rally.

    The rally was in response to new policies announced by TRICARE imposing restrictions to ABA care under a pilot program for retired and non-active personnel. The policies, which take effect July 25, originally would have applied to all TRICARE coverage, including the ECHO program for active duty members, but was revised after an uproar from military families and members of Congress.

    Legislation that would have required ABA coverage for all military members passed both houses of Congress last year, but was amended down to the pilot program in conference committee. Similar legislation this year has passed the House and awaits action in the Senate.


    Disability Spending Drops For First Time In Years - DisabiltyScoop
    For the first time in decades, a new report finds that total government spending on individuals with developmental disabilities has declined.
    July 19, 2013

    Athletes With Special Needs To Square Off In Cage Fight - DisabiltyScoop
    In a matchup that may mark a first for the rough-and-tumble sport of mixed martial arts, two athletes with developmental disabilities are set to face off in a cage fight this August.

    Abilities Expo--the Nation's Leading Event for People with Disabilities--Makes Boston Debut September 20-22 - PRNewswire
    BOSTON, July 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- New England's community of people with disabilities—which also includes families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals—welcomes the much-anticipated launch of Abilities Expo Boston on September 20-22, 2013 at...

    L'association Valentin Haüy (AVH) enrichit sa bibliothèque numérique Éole avec des collections de livres audio au format Daisy lus par la synthèse vocale Acapela - PRNewswire
    PARIS, July 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Les équipes du CERTAM et de la Médiathèque Valentin Haüy ont associé leurs compétences pour proposer une collection de livres au format audio Daisy en synthèse vocale et choisi Alice, une voix d'Acapela group. Les...
    July 18, 2013

    TRICARE Retreats On Planned ABA Cuts for Military Kids - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Military health care plan drops changes for active duty members

    July 18, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (July 18, 2013) -- The Department of Defense announced today it's new restrictions on applied behavior analysis (ABA) for the nation's 23,000 militarykids with autism will not be applied to active duty members covered under the ECHO program or TRICARE Basic. The changes will apply only to a pilot program for the families of non-active and retired personnel.

    The proposed changes, scheduled to take effect July 25, aroused a storm of protest from military families and led U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Patty Murray (D-WA) and Mark Warner (D-VA) to demand answers from the Pentagon.

    The proposed policy changes would have requiredparents to arrange standardized testing every six months for their children in order to continue receiving care, and demonstrate "measurable progress." Continued care after two years of therapy and after age 16 would require a waiver, and new discharge criteria would be put in place.

    "Beginning July 25, 2013, the Department is greatly expanding services available to non-active duty family members with introduction of the ABA Pilot," TRICARE announced. "The pilot will provide non-active duty family members, including retirees, with access to additional areas of ABA reinforcement."

    TRICARE was orderedby Congress last year to start the ABA pilot program within 90 days, but the launch has been delayed for months.

    "There are no changes in the TRICARE Basic program or the Extended Care Health Option (ECHO) Autism Services Demonstration providing ABA to active duty family members," the DoD announced.

    Earlier this week, a U.S. Air Force officer asked Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel at Fort Bragg about the policy changes. See the exchange below:


    Tim Pernetti Elected to Board of Directors of Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation - PRNewswire

    Former Rutgers Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and television executive lends time and talent to further "Today's Care. Tomorrow's Cure." SHORT HILLS, N.J., July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Seasoned sports and media executive Tim Pernetti has been elected to the Board of...


    July 17, 2013

    EEOC Sues Industrial Services Company for Firing Employee Due to Back Impairment - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has chargedMPW Industrial Services of Philadelphia, PA with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A new employee to the company revealed that he has animplanted Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) unit in his lower back for his back impairment. Shortly afterwards, the company allegedly fired the employee because it could not guarantee a place for him to charge his TENS unit.


    Paralyzed and Amputee Skaters Compete for $10,000 at Venice Skate Park on July 20 - PRNewswire
    They Will Skate Again attracts international participants at one-of-a kind adaptive skate festival LOS ANGELES, July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Life Rolls On, a subsidiary of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, will host the They Will Skate Again SHOE CITY Open...

    In First, Down Syndrome Chromosome Turned Off - DisabiltyScoop
    In a finding that could pave the way for new treatments, scientists say they've found an "off switch" that can be applied to the extra chromosome responsible for Down syndrome.

    Report: States Lagging On Community Living - DisabiltyScoop
    States are failing to meet their obligations to transition individuals with disabilities out of institutions and into community settings, a year-long investigation finds.

    Warner Joins Chorus of Protest Over ABA Cuts for Military Kids - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Virginia Senator asks TRICARE to explain rationale behind changes

    July 17, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (July 17, 2013) -- U.S. Senator Mark Warner of Virginia has added his voice to the protest over changes proposed by TRICARE to its coverage for applied behavior analysis (ABA) for military kids, issuing a letter to the military's health insurer to explain changes scheduled to take effect July 25. Military families in Virginia Beach, meanwhile, are planning a rally against the changes this Sunday.

    "After hearing from many of my constituents, I believe that this decision will delay and interrupt direct services for thousands of military children, making it harder for families to care for their children," Warner wrotein a July 17 letter to TRICARE Director Dr. Jonathan Woodson. "This new policy has the potential to put thousands of military children with development disabilities at risk of losing critical behavioral treatment and care."

    Under the proposed policy changes, parents would have to arrange standardized testing every 6 months for their children in order to continue receiving care, and demonstrate "measurable progress." Continued care after two years of therapy and after age 16 would require a waiver, and new discharge criteria would be put in place.

    In addition to Warner,Senators Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY) and Patty Murray (D-WA)haveasked foranswers from TRICARE.

    Meanwhile, military families from across the nation continue to raise their voices in the media over the changes and the potentially harmful effects on their children with autism. An estimated 23,000 military dependents have autism.

    In Virginia Beach, families are planning a demonstration against TRICARE this Sunday (July 21) at 1535 Amberly Forest Road in Virginia Beach. Similar reports have come out of Elgin Air Force Base in Pensacola, Fl., San Diego, Kingsland, GA, andColorado Springs.


    White House Taps New Disability Liaison - DisabiltyScoop
    Starting this week, there is a new adviser at the White House focusing specifically on disability issues.
    July 16, 2013

    Disability Organizing Network And Independent Living Centers Focus On Building Accessible Communities - PRNewswire
    SACRAMENTO, Calif., July 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- As the disability community prepares to celebrate the 23rd anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 2013, efforts to make the law a reality are still being forged throughout California...

    Woman With Down Syndrome Looks To Fill Fashion Void - DisabiltyScoop
    Struggling to find hip clothes that fit those like her who have Down syndrome, Ashley DeRamus is launching her own clothing line catering to women with the chromosomal disorder.

    Vanderbilt Kennedy Center Releases New Study on Training Pediatricians to Decrease Wait Times for Autism Diagnosis in Children - AUCD
    A three-year study conducted by researchers at Vanderbilt University, entitled concluded that training pediatric health care providers to identify and diagnose children with autism will increase speed and accuracy of autism diagnoses.

    AUCD Welcomes Richard Davis as Disability Policy Leadership Fellow - AUCD
    Richard Davis is this year's Disability Policy Leadership Fellow. He recently received his Master of Social Work degree from the University of Houston, where he was also a trainee at the Lone Star LEND, participating in numerous clinical rotations throughout the Houston Medical Center and Harris County. Richard was also involved part-time at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital's Pediatric Retrovirology Department as an Interventionist for an Adolescent Trials Network (ATN) study working with recently diagnosed HIV-positive youth.

    Outcry Grows Over Looming ABA Cuts for Military Kids - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Media coverage shows military families frustrated with TRICARE proposals

    July 16, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (July 16, 2013) -- Military families from around the nation are raising their voices overpolicy changesproposed by TRICARE, the military health insurance plan, that would restrict their access to applied behavior analysis (ABA)therapy for their children with autism. The changes, whichwould take effect July 25, have already drawn a protest from U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY).

    "Military families deserve better," Karen Driscoll, Autism Speaks' associate director for federal government affairs and military relations, told Stars and Stripes. The article noted Autism Speaks' ongoing efforts with Congress and TRICARE to improve coverage for the nation's 23,000 military kids with autism.

    "It's as if someone in Tricare who doesn't understand autism wrote this policy,"Jeremy Hilton, a veteran and Air Force spousewhose daughter has autism, toldMilitary.com.The online news site said TRICARE's Facebook page "exploded" with questions from concerned parents and that customer service representatives were unable to answer or responded inaccurately to phone requests for information.

    Under theproposed policy changes, parents would have to arrangestandardized testing every 6 months for their children in order to continue receiving care, and demonstrate"measurable progress." Continued care after two years of therapy and after age 16 would require a waiver, and new discharge criteria would be put in place.

    Kathryn Sneed, whose husband is stationed at Robins Air Force Base in Georgia, called the requirement to have their three-year-old son with autism re-evaluated every six months "ridiculous." Sneed said she is concerned they will have to drive two hours to Atlanta to find the specialists required to perform the proposed testing.

    At Fort Stewart, a U.S. Army installation also in Georgia, families whose children receive ABA therapy posed for a group picture andmessage that they represent "just a fraction"of the military families at risk of being impacted by the changes.

    WVEC in Norfolk, VA reported on the controversy, and in Seattle, military spouse Dena Radclifferaised concerns over how the changes would affect her three-old-son with autism in an interview with KING 5 News.

    The threat of losing her son's ABA coverage, she said, would feel "like I'm losing the ability to connect, in a way, with my child.”


    Staffing Agency Settles EEOC Lawsuit for Discriminating against Employee with Prosthetic Leg - Disabilty.gov

    Staffmark Investment LLC has settled a disability discrimination lawsuit with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for violating the Americans with Disabilities Act. Staffmark assigned an employee to temporary work at a facility in Romeoville, IL to inspect televisions. The employee was soon removed from her position and terminated because the facility managers did not want anyone to bump into her. The EEOC alleged that the employee was told she'd be given another position, but this never happened.


    National Council on Disability Honors Life & Legacy of Michael Winter - Disabilty.gov

    The National Council on Disability honors the life of Michael Winter, a long-time disability advocate and employee of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) who passed away on July 11, 2013. He was born in 1951 withosteogenesis imperfecta and was a lifetime wheelchair user. He became a strong advocate for accessible transportation. AT DOT, he wasresponsible for federal civil rights responsibilities as they applied to the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act and other issues.


    Current and Former Members of Congress Team Up to Benefit Wounded Warriors - PRNewswire
    The U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress' Annual Congressional Charity Golf Classic raises funds for wounded warriors to get sports rehabilitation through Disabled Sports USA's Warfighter Sports program. A new chair called, the "ParaGolfer" will be used for the first time,...

    HumanWare Announces Prodigi - A Breakthrough for People Living With Vision Loss - PRNewswire
    DRUMMONDVILLE, QC, July 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ - HumanWare announces ProdigiTM, the world's most advanced, all-digital personal vision assistant for people with low vision conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and other eye diseases.  HumanWare...

    Virtual House Calls Help Parents with Autistic Kids - PRNewswire

    MELBOURNE, Fla., July 16, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Time is of the essence for the families of autistic children. Early interventional services are critical in alleviating the symptoms of a condition for which there is currently no cure, yet finding the time for behavioral training...



    States Show Improvement In Special Education - DisabiltyScoop
    A growing number of states are meeting their responsibilities to provide special education services, federal officials say.

    Senator Calls For Transition Action Plan - DisabiltyScoop
    A new proposal in the U.S. Senate would allocate federal dollars to develop a national plan to help those with developmental disabilities transition to adulthood.

    Dr. Lann E. Thompson Retiring from Riley Child Development Center LEND Program, Indiana University School of Medicine - AUCD
    Dr. Lann E. Thompson will be retiring from the Riley Child Development Center LEND Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, effective July 31, 2013 after 43 years of service to people with disabilities and their families in Indiana, South Dakota and Wisconsin

    Nisonger Center (OH UCEDD/LEND) Leads Team for Shakespeare and Autism Study - AUCD
    Faculty and trainees at The Ohio State University Nisonger Center UCEDD are collaborating with Kelly Hunter of the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Ohio State Department of Theatre, and the Columbus Public Schools to assess the effectiveness of a drama-based autism intervention.
    July 15, 2013

    Free Webinars on Disaster Preparedness & ADA's Impact on Civil Rights - July 16 & 25 - Disabilty.gov

    The National Spinal Cord Injury Association will host free webinars in July. Disaster Preparedness for People with Disabilitieswill be held on July 16, 2013. The Americans with Disabilities Act & It's Impact on Civil Rights (ADA) will be on July 25, 2013. Both are from 3 - 4 p.m. Eastern Time. Register by clicking on the title link for each webinar.


    Goodwin Weber PLLC, on Behalf of DOJ Employees, Announces Intent Today To File Class Action Suit Against Secretary of Labor Nominee Thomas Perez - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, July 15, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- According to a number of Department of Justice (DOJ) employees, the Civil Rights Division, at the direction of Thomas Perez and his senior staff, began a widespread campaign of disparate and discriminatory treatment earlier this...

    Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network Will Be FIRST In North America To Have Ekso with Variable Assist for Stroke Patients - PRNewswire
    Ekso's Advancement Allows Stroke Patients To Relearn Proper Gait Patterns and Weight Shifts ALLENTOWN, Pa., July 15, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network (www.GoodShepherdRehab.org), an Allentown, Pennsylvania-based innovator in the rehabilitation of...

    College Living Experience Promotes Life Lessons For Students With Learning Disabilities Through Community Volunteerism - PRNewswire

    WASHINGTON, July 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- College Living Experience (CLE), a national organization founded to help students with special learning needs achieve post-secondary education and independent-living skills, today announced for the 2012-2013 academic year the completion of...



    New product opens supermarket doors to special-needs shoppers - PRNewswire

    NEWTON, N.C., July 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- During her early years, Caroline Long fit comfortably in the child seat installed in traditional grocery carts. But soon she outgrew those seats, putting her mother Drew Ann Long in a bind. (Photo:...



    Pediatrician Training May Speed Autism Diagnosis - DisabiltyScoop
    A training program designed to teach pediatricians to better identify kids with autism may be an effective way to decrease wait times and flag children at younger ages, researchers say.

    Stephanie Weber, PsyD, Named LEND Training Director at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati - AUCD
    Stephanie obtained her Doctor of Psychology degree from the University of Indianapolis in Indiana in 2011 after completing internship at The Devereux Foundation's Leo Kanner Center in West Chester, Pennsylvania. She is a licensed psychologist in the state of Ohio. She will hold the rank of assistant professor of clinical pediatrics in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Cincinnati.

    Pennsylvania's UCEDD Celebrates 40 Years in 2013 - AUCD
    The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA marked its 40th anniversary with a celebration welcoming more than 125 friends, partners and staff members, both past and present, for an evening of fun and recognition.

    Ms. Santa Perez (NV UCEDD) Honored with Champions of Equal Opportunity Self-Advocate Award by NACDD - AUCD
    Said the nomination, "She is a true leader in the self-advocacy field...She has been a true champion of rights for Nevada's citizens with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and leads various trainings and workshops and serves as a client advocate."

    HearingLikeMe: Online Community for People with Hearing Loss Receives Multiple Honors - PRNewswire
    WARRENVILLE, Ill., July 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Only one year after its launch, the online community www.hearinglikeme.com has been awarded with a number of prestigious prizes: following the best online video award at this year's Telly Awards, HearingLikeMe.com has now been...

    UK Deaf Sport Calls for Support in the Journey to the Deaflympics 2013 - PRNewswire
    LONDON, July 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Deaflympics: 26th July - 4th August 2013 Official Kit Handover: 22nd July, London Athlete interview opportunities available 15th July - 4th August On the 21st of July a squad of GB athletes will take the journey to...
    July 13, 2013

    Webinar on Emergency Preparedness & People Who Use Personal Assistance Services - July 23 - Disabilty.gov

    The National Research and Training Center for Personal Assistance Services (PAS) will hold a free webinar as part of its emergency preparedness project. “Emergency Preparedness in PAS Users” will be held on July 23, 2013, from 2 – 3 p.m. Eastern Time. This session will present the results of an online survey and follow-up interviews with individuals who lived through an emergency or disaster that required evacuation or shelter in place. Sign in before start time.

    July 12, 2013

    Justice Department Settles Lawsuit with Erie County, NY for Discriminating against Employee with Vision Disability - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has settled a lawsuit against Erie County, NY for violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by discriminating against an employee with a vision impairment. The county allegedly refused to promote an employee with monocular vision because he did not have a commercial driver's license, even though other employees without a commercial driver's license had been promoted.The county is required to provide ADA training to its staff.


    Power Grid Operator Company Settles Lawsuit for Denying Reasonable Accommodation to Employee with Postpartum Depression - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedMidcontinent Independent Transmission System Operator with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). An employee at the Carmel, IN office had postpartum depression and requested a reasonable accommodation of leave. Her request was denied and she was then fired her for lack of attendance. The company has agreed to train its employees on the obligations under the ADA.


    U.S. Access Board Releases New Guidance on Making Prescription Drug Container Labels Accessible - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Access Board has released new guidance on how to makeprescription drug container labels accessible to people with vision impairments or who are elderly. The information on drug container labels is often inaccessible to people who can't read print or small type, including dosage, side effects and expiration dates. The guidance covers different ways of making labels accessible, including Braille, large print, auditory technologies such as "talking bottles" and radio frequency identification tags.


    "DAVE" to Screen at Indiana Black Expo In Partnership with the Heartland Film Festival - PRNewswire
    AUSTIN, Texas and INDIANAPOLIS, July 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Crowfly Pictures Entertainment, Through The Fog Pictures and Indiana Black Expo, Inc. (IBE), announced that the mentor themed feature documentary, "DAVE," will be screening as part of IBE's film festival, in...

    Pennsylvania Alzheimer's Disease Planning Committee to Hold Series of Regional Public Meetings - PRNewswire
    HARRISBURG, Pa., July 12, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Secretary of Aging Brian Duke and members of the Pennsylvania Alzheimer's Disease Planning Committee will hold a series of regional meetings to seek public comment around the development of a statewide plan to address Alzheimer's...

    New Exhibit Helps Create Positive Awareness of People Living With Disabilities - PRNewswire
    Bush Library and Museum to open access/ABILITY July 15 COLLEGE STATION, Texas, July 12, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum at Texas A&M University will open "access/ABILITY" July 15 in the museum's Ansary Gallery of American History....

    Poll Finds Disability Community Politically Engaged - DisabiltyScoop
    A new poll finds that those touched by disabilities are turning out to vote in high numbers and care deeply about candidate views on supports and services.

    Alaska Enacts 'Silver Alert' System for Vulnerable Adults - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Modeled after Amber Alert, program protects adults with development disabilities who go missing

    July 12, 2013

    JUNEAU (July 12, 2013) -- Alaska has enacted a law adopting the "Silver Alert" rapid response and notification system that can be activated when vulnerable adults, including those withdevelopmental disabilities, go missing.

    Sponsored by Rep. Max Gruenberg and Sen. Johnny Ellis, the new law makes Alaska the 39th stateto adopt the "Silver Alert" system which is modeled after the "Amber Alert:" system for missing children.In addition to adults with developmental disabilities, the law's protections would apply tosenior citizens with dementia,veterans suffering from PTSD, and other disabled adults.

    Gruenberg said Alaska has a particular need for a “Silver Alert” program because of the state's harsh weather and vast wilderness, coupled with its large number of active military members and veterans, as well as a growing senior population. TheAlaska Department of Public Safety, in cooperation with the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs, will design the program to enlist the voluntary cooperation of media outlets in notifying the public of missing vulnerable adults through television, radio, and social media.


    Innovative UK Telecoms Company Announce Services Designed to Increase Accessibility for Elderly and Disabled Customers - PRNewswire
    BATH, England, July 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- A UK based communications company who specialise in developing and selling oversized-button mobile and land-line telephones have announced two brand new services, making communicating easier for the elderly and disabled. 'Easiphone' have...
    July 11, 2013

    Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Awards 74 Nonprofit Organizations Quality of Life Grants - PRNewswire

    SHORT HILLS, N.J., July 11, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation announced it has awarded over $500,000 in Quality of Life Grants to 74 nonprofit organizations in the United States. Grants requests are evaluated and scored using a rigorous review...



    Congress Demands Answers On ABA Cutbacks For Military Kids - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Senators Gillibrand, Murray question new TRICARE restrictions

    July 11, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (July 11, 2013) -- In a strongly worded letter to the Department of Defense, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Patty Murray (D-WA) demanded to know the reasoning behindnew policy changes that severely restrict access to applied behavior analysis (ABA) for the nation's 23,000 military kids with autism.

    "The apparent lack of understanding of the needs of children with developmental disability, including autism,...is astounding," the Senatorswrote in their letter to Dr. Jonathan Woodson, director of TRICARE, the military health insurance program. Gillibrand [below] and Murray [right] expressed "complete frustration and dismay" with the policy changes which became public in late June.

    Murray chairs the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee; Gillibrand chairs the Senate Armed Services' personnel subcommittee.

    "Given the impact family health care plays on military readiness, it is essential military families have assurances of continued health care. Policies inconsistent with good clinical practice only serve to limit, restrict, delay, and deny care," the letter continued. "Before these new policies are in effect, we strongly urge you to consult with experts in developmental disabilities such as autism and ABA treatment practices."

    The Senators were responding to policy guidance issued on June 25 by TRICARE affecting ABA coverage for all TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries.The changes are scheduled to take effect July 25.

    TRICARE will now require:

    • standardized testing every 6 months in order to continue receiving care
    • evidence of "measurable progress" as indicated by standardized testing results to receive continued therapy
    • waivers to continue care beyond two years of treatment and after age 16
    • new discharge criteria for failure to make progress, sustainable gains, or a parent's inability to participate in the treatment

    The new policies require the use of psychometric testing (VBS-II every 6 months; ADOS-2 annually) to showprogress in order to continue receiving ABA. Gillibrand and Murray questioned whether those tests are valid or reliable for measuring progress with ABA and directed TRICARE to cite the authoritythey used to require them.

    Imposing that condition to continue receiving care "is a significant shift in how TRICARE covers all other medical services," the Senators said. "Military children with developmental disabilities, such as autism, often experience periods of regression due to life events (such as deployment, relocation, change in school, change in medications, etc.).

    "Coming back from those periods of regression often takes significant time and effort (months and sometimes years), and sometimes progress may be simply the absence of regression," they continued. "During these challenging times of need, discharging an individual from care is inappropriate and will have longlasting results on patient outcomes."

    The Senators also directed TRICARE to identify any other chronic health condition thatrequires standardized testing to authorize care or evidence of progress in order to continue receiving coverage underits policies. TRICARE wasdirected to explain why it will require parents year after year to obtainnew assessmentsreconfirming their child's existing autism diagnosis.

    “Autism Speaks commends Senators Gillibrand and Murray for their commitment to the thousands of military families raising kids with autism and other developmental disabilities,” said Karen Driscoll, Autism Speaks' associate director for federal government affairs and military relations.“Access to consistent healthcare services is essential to the physical and mental well-being of our military families.We greatly appreciate their leadership to ensure TRICARE policies provide the care our military families have earned and deserve.”


    GM, Chrysler Start Offering ABA Benefits - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    GM voluntarily offers benefits nationwide, Chrysler pilots plan in Michigan

    July 11, 2013

    DETROIT (July 11, 2013) -- GM and Chrysler have begun to voluntarily offer expanded health insurance benefits for autism, including applied behavior analysis (ABA), to their employees and efforts are underway to convince Fordto also improve its coverage. GMoffers the benefits nationally; Chryslerhas begun by offering benefits to its Michigan-based workforce.

    Information regarding foreign automakers operating US manufacturing facilities was not readily available.

    The Autism Alliance of Michigan, which helped enact the state's 2012 autisminsurance reform law, worked to recruit the automakers to voluntarily offer autism benefits and is educating other employers in the state which self-insure their health plans to do the same, said Colleen Allen, PhD, the alliance president and CEO.

    Employers that self-insure their health plans are governed under federal law (ERISA), which does not require autism coverages,and therefore are exempt from state autism insurance reform laws. Increasing numbers of ERISA employers, however,are voluntarily offering autism benefits, often following the enactment of state autism insurance reform laws.

    GM on July 1 began offering autism coverage to its active salaried employees nationwide for children through the age of 18. The benefits include ABA; speech, physical and occupational therapy; nutritional counseling; and other mental health and medical services.

    Chrysler launched a one-year pilot programfor its Michigan-based workforce on July 1. Salaried employees who reside in Michigan are eligible for ABA coverage for their dependents through 2014. In addition, coverage for speech, physical and occupational therapy was expanded for dependents with autism through age 6.

    Under the Michigan autism reimbursement law enacted as part of last year'spackage of reform bills, both GM and Chrysler will be reimbursed by the state for the costs of covering all employees who are Michigan residents.

    According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data for June, the automotive industry employs 806,000 workers in vehicle and parts manufacturing nationally, up 40,000 from June 2012. Michigan had the largest state share with 148,000 workers, up about 4,500 from a year ago.


    NIMH Study Finds Preschoolers with ADHD Often Have Disorder Throughout Childhood - Disabilty.gov

    A study on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder by The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has found that pre-school children diagnosed with ADHD tend to have the disorder throughout childhood. The study also found that a treatment with low doses of Ritalin was effective on children over the short term, but that more research is needed on medication effects over the long term.


    Health Centers to Help Uninsured Get Affordable Health Coverage - Disabilty.gov

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has announced $150 million in grants to 1,159 health centers nationwide to enroll uninsured Americans in new health coverage options under the Affordable Care Act. Consumers will get help understandingtheir coverage options through the new Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program and enrollment in the best plan that fits their needs. Find a health center near you.


    United Spinal Hosts Free July Webinars: Disaster Preparedness for People with Disabilities & the ADA's Impact on Civil Rights - PRNewswire

    Free July Webinars: For peeps w/ disabilities frm @UnitedSpinal Disaster Prep & #ADA Civil Rights Impact http://ow.ly/mNlv9 NEW YORK, July 11, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- United Spinal Association's membership division, National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA),...



    Researchers Identify Possible Cause Of 1 In 4 Autism Cases - DisabiltyScoop
    Nearly a quarter of autism cases could be due to antibodies found in the mother's blood during pregnancy that interfere with fetal brain development, researchers say.
    July 10, 2013

    EveryBody: An Artifact History of Disability in America - Disabilty.gov

    The Smithsonian Institution has a Web exhibit of the history of people with disabilities in America shown through photos. From the 1800s through the present day, these photos of people, places and technology show that people with disabilities have always been an important part of American life. You can download and print disability history posters for classrooms, offices, dorms or presentations.


    Canadian Paralympic Committee congratulates Peter Eriksson and Ahmed El-Awadi on new leadership roles - PRNewswire
    OTTAWA, July 10, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Paralympic Committee is pleased today to congratulate both Peter Eriksson and Ahmed El-Awadi on their new leadership roles with Athletics Canada and Swimming Canada respectively. Athletics Canada, the national governing body for track and...

    Sharon Heller Joins College Living Experience As Director Of CLE Denver - PRNewswire
    DENVER, July 10, 2013 /PRNewswrie/ -- College Living Experience (CLE), a national organization founded to help students with special learning needs achieve post-secondary education and independent-living skills, today announced the addition of Sharon Heller as the new director of the CLE...

    Hundreds Respond To Last-Minute Down Syndrome Adoption Plea - DisabiltyScoop
    A posting on Facebook seeking an adoptive family for an unborn child with Down syndrome who would otherwise be aborted has yielded hundreds of responses from interested moms and dads.

    New Handicap Parking Permit Guide Reduces Hassle-by MyParkingPermit.com - PRNewswire
    NEW YORK, July 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Over 37 million Americans are eligible for accessible parking, but the process for securing a parking permit can seem intimidating. To make life easier for drivers with a handicap, MyParkingPermit.com has launched an online state-by-state guide...

    For Many With Disabilities, Health Screenings Still Not Covered - DisabiltyScoop
    As the health care reform law expands access to preventive services at the doctor's office, a new analysis finds that many with disabilities who rely on Medicaid might be left out.
    July 9, 2013

    NCD to Hold Policy Briefing & ADA Anniversary Event - July 23 - Disabilty.gov

    The National Council on Disability (NCD) will hold“Five Years Later - The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Amendments Act of 2008: Impact on Disability Discrimination” on July 23, 2013 from 1 - 2:30 p.m. in Washington, DC. The event will celebrate the ADA and the fifth year following passage of the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) with remarks by congressional, civil rights and business community champions of the ADAAA.


    Lions Clubs International Elects First Australian President - PRNewswire

    OAK BROOK, Ill., July 9, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Barry J. Palmer of Berowra, NSW, Australia, was elected president of Lions Clubs International at the association's 96th International Convention held in Hamburg, Germany, and is the first Australian citizen to be elected...



    2013 Arthritis Walk® To Raise More Than $10 Million - PRNewswire

    ATLANTA, July 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Arthritis Foundation announced today that the nationwide 2013 Arthritis Walk is projected to raise more than $10 million in hopes of finding a cure and ending arthritis pain for the 50 million people who...



    Museum Says No To Girl's Wheelchair - DisabiltyScoop
    A family is crying foul after they say their daughter was denied access to a museum because her wheelchair might dirty the carpet.

    Washington St. Employees Agree to $3.5 Million ABA Settlement - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    State agency, workers agree to create fund to reimburse out-of-pocket costs wrongfully denied under mental health parity law

    July 09, 2013

    SEATTLE (July 9, 2013) -- Washington State employees whose insurance claims for applied behavior analysis (ABA) for their children with autism were wrongfully denied may soon be eligible for$3.5 million in reimbursement.

    In aclass action suit brought on behalf of all Washington state workers, the plaintiffs and the Washington State Health Care Authority(HCA) have announced they have agreed to a preliminary settlementcreating a special fund to reimburse familiies for their out-of-pocket ABA expenses.

    King County Superior Court Judge Susan Craighead has scheduled a Sept. 5 hearing to finalize the settlement.A $3.5 million commonfund would be created for current and former state workers enrolled in the Uniform Medical Plan to seek reimbursement for their out-of-pocket expenses for ABAfrom January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2012.

    Craighead ruled last year that HCA had wrongfully deniedABA benefits underthe state's 2006 mental health parity law.

    “This settlement will enable hundreds of Washington families to obtain reimbursement for the ABA therapy that they provided for their children, since the Washington Mental Health Parity Act took effect,” said Arzu Forough [left], parent of two named plaintiffs and chief executive officer of the Washington Autism Alliance & Advocacy.

    “Many families went into debt, liquidated their pensions, or gave up paying for other important basic needs, just to ensure that their children with autism received this essential therapy," she said. "We hope that this fund will be an example for other insurers as to the right way to redress improper insurance company exclusions of ABA therapy.”

    Craighead originally ruled for the families in July 2012, resultingin a partial settlement requiring coverage of medically necessary ABA therapy to treat autism.

    “I am pleased that the Health Care Authority was able to respond positively and make this important ABA benefit available to 200,000 Uniform Medical Plan members as well as 1.2 million Medicaid clients,” said HCA Director Dorothy Teeter.“Thousands of Washington families dealing with autism will benefit from these changes.”

    The Medicaid settlement is being handled separately by another court.The HCA class action isone of seven pending class action lawsuits over Washington insurers' limitations or exclusions of autism treatment, including lawsuits against Premera Blue Cross, Regence Blue Shield, and Group Health Cooperative.


    8 Autism Bills on the Move in CA Legislature - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    First bill on way to Governor, others nearing final action

    July 09, 2013

    SACRAMENTO (July 9, 2013) -- The California Legislature has sent one autism bill to Governor Jerry Brown for his signature and moved seven others towards final passage. Six of the bills were recommended by the Autism DiversityTask Force created last year by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg.

    Autism Speaks is sponsoring one of the bills, SB.126, which would extend California's 2011 autism insurance reform law, due to expire next summer, until 2019. Sponsored by Steinberg, the bill has been approved by the Senate 37-0 and the Assembly Health Committee 18-0, and is now before the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

    The bill sent to Brown, AB.1232, would require the state Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to account forissues of diversity and equity when assessing the quality of services provided by regional centers. The bill is sponsored by Assemblyman V. Manuel Perez.

    The bill is one of six that emerged from the task force, which was co-chaired by advocate Areva Martin [left], co-founder of the Special Needs Network,andSergio Aguilar-Gaxiola, M.D., Ph.D, founding director of theUC Davis Center for Reducing Health Disparities.Steinberg created the task force after a Senate Select Committee heard testimony suggesting inequities in the provision of services.

    The other task force bills include:

    • SB.158, sponsored by Sen. Lou Correa, which would establish an autism demonstration program to improve linguistic and cultural competency in Regional Centers. The bill has been voted out of the Senate and the Assembly Human Services Committee and is now before the Assembly Appropriations Committee
    • SB.208, sponsored by Sen. Ricardo Lara, which would require Regional Centers to evaluate the ability of outside vendors to provide culturally and linguistically competent services before awarding contracts. The bill also has cleared the Senate and the Assembly Human Services Committee and is before the appropriations committee
    • SB.367, sponsored by Sen. Marty Block, which would require Regional Centers to develop annual strategic plans addressing issues of linguistic and cultural competency. The bill has passed the Senate and is scheduled for a hearing before the Assembly Human Services Committee on Aug. 13
    • SB.468 , sponsoredby Sen. Bill Emmerson, whichis designed to give particpants and their families in Regional Centers more flexibility and choice in choosing services under their Individual Program Plan (IPP). Emmerson's bill has cleared the Senate and awaits a hearing before the Assembly Human Services Committee
    • SB.555 , sponsored byCorrea, which would establish guidelines for Regional Centers in providing IPPs in a culturally and linguistically competent manner. The bill also awaits a hearing before the Assembly Human Services Committee after being voted out of the Senate

    The eighth bill, AB.131, sponsored by Perez, would require DDS to facilitate the use of telehealth and teledentistry services in the Regional Center system. The bill has passed the Assembly and two Senate committees, and is now befiore the Senate Appropriations Committee.


    Celebrate the Americans with Disabilities Act - July 26 - Disabilty.gov

    TheAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will have its 23rd anniversary on July 26, 2013. The ADA National Network and its 10 regional ADA Centers located throughout the United States are celebrating the ADA and invite you to check out theirAnniversary Tool Kit. The tool kit will help with ideas onhow you can celebrate the progress made by the ADA in your workplaces, schools and communities.


    Veterans to Seize the Day in Tampa Bay - July 13-18 - Disabilty.gov

    The 33rd National Veterans Wheelchair Gameswill be held July 13 - 18, 2013 in Tampa Bay, FL. The event isa sports and rehabilitation program for Veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition due to spinal cord injuries, amputations or certain neurological problems. Over 600 participants are expected to attend this year's event. The games allow newly disabled Veterans to gain sports skills and get to know the other athletes. Learn more about the event.


    Prometheus Real Estate Group's POrCH Challenge Raises $69K for People With Disabilities - PRNewswire
    SAN MATEO, Calif., July 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- This summer, all 80 Prometheus Real Estate Group communities, 650 Prometheans, and 15+ vendor partners lent a helping hand in a huge effort called the "2013 POrCH Challenge."  The goal was to help enrich the lives of people...

    Motor Skills Linked To Autism Severity - DisabiltyScoop
    The ability to throw or catch a ball may be a predictor of social skills success in children with autism, researchers say.

    ESPN, Ben Affleck To Honor Man With Cerebral Palsy - DisabiltyScoop
    Actor Ben Affleck is set to present an award for perseverance to a father-son team who have competed together in more than 1,000 races despite the younger man's severe disabilities.
    July 8, 2013

    A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts Raises $120,000+ for Easter Seals' autism programs; More than $570,000 in funds contributed to Easter Seals since 2010 - PRNewswire
    BERLIN, N.J., July 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Employees and customers of A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts recently raised more than $120,000 to support Easter Seals programs along the East Coast.  Since launching the partnership with Easter Seals in 2010, A.C. Moore customers and staff have...

    Lions Clubs International Announces Historic Expansion of Partnership with Special Olympics - PRNewswire

    HAMBURG, Germany, July 8, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Lions Clubs International Foundation is pledging $7.8 million to Special Olympics, expanding worldwide efforts to support the inclusion and well-being of people with intellectual disabilities. (Photo:...



    Disabled Veterans National Foundation Applauds Department of Transportation's Training Grants for Veterans - PRNewswire

    WASHINGTON, July 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (www.dvnf.org), a non-profit veterans service organization that focuses on helping men and women who serve and return home wounded or sick after defending our safety and our freedom, applauds the Department...



    More With Disabilities Struggling To Find Work - DisabiltyScoop
    Unemployment among Americans with disabilities is on the rise, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

    LA Times: ABA 'Falling Through the Cracks' in Medi-Cal Transition - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Despite state assurances, coverage is lost in move out of Healthy Families

    July 08, 2013

    LOS ANGELES (July 8, 2013) -- The Los Angeles Times reported on the transition of 900,000 California children from the Healthy Families program into Medi-Cal which has led to a cutoff of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, despite assurances fromstate officials there was to be no loss in services.

    Rene Mollow, a deputy director at the California Department of Health Care Services, told the newspaper thatsome children could get ABA"through a federal program" or their school, but acknowledged thatnot all children will be served.

    "We're coming out of a significant deficit," she said. "We're just looking to be prudent with the dollars that we have."

    SenatePresident pro TemDarrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) sought to restore the coverage in the state budget, but the necessary funding was not includedby Governor Jerry Brown.

    "The administration promises us a resolution, but we don't have one yet," Steinberg told the Times.

    July 7, 2013

    Autism Speaks Issues FAQs on TRICARE Changes - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    ECHO, Interim Basic and Pilot plans all affected

    July 06, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (July 5, 2013) -- Autism Speaks has developed a Frequently Asked Questions guide for military families to better understand the changes in coverage for applied behavior analysis (ABA) announced in late June by TRICARE. The changes affect all ABA policies.

    To download the FAQs, go here

    July 6, 2013

    Management Consulting Company Sued for Denying Reasonable Accommodation & Firing Employee with Eye Condition - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedRiviera Consulting & Management Consulting, LLC with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The San Jose, CA-based company denied an employee a reasonable accommodation and fired him. The employee, a bookkeeper, hasretinitis pigmentosa and was asked to drive to deliver paychecks and pick up mail, which he couldn't do due to his eye condition. The lawsuit requires the company to prevent future discrimination.


    National Council on Disability Makes Recommendations to Long-Term Care Commission - Disabilty.gov

    TheNational Council on Disability's letter to the Chair of the Federal Commission on Long-Term Care gives recommendations for developing a framework forlong-term services and supportsfor all people with disabilities. The letter indicates that with the aging of the baby boomers, increasing life expectancy, and rising disability rates in people under 65, the need for long-term services and supports will significantly increase.


    Labor Department Twitter Town Hall on Employment Resources for Veterans with Disabilities - July 10 - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) will hold a Twitter Town Hall chat on Veterans' employment programs for Veterans with disabilities on July 10, 2013 from 2 - 3 p.m. Eastern Time. The chat will include participants from DOL's Veterans' Employment and Training Service, the Office of Disability Employment Policy, several national Veterans service organizations, employers, representatives from local American Jobs Centers, and experts from the armed services.Submit questions using the hashtag #VetsJobsChator by email.


    NISH Now Called SourceAmerica - Disabilty.gov

    NISH has changed its name toSourceAmerica. The nonprofit creates employment opportunities for people with significant disabilities. It isanAbilityOne-authorized agency thatfills jobs for commercial businesses and government contractors with workers with signfiicant disabilities. SourceAmerica also provides services in business development,contract management, legislative and regulatory assistance, communications and public relations materials, information technology support, engineering and technical assistance, and professional training.


    HUD Reaches Settlement with Housing Authority for Denying Reasonable Accommodation to Mother & Son with Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has reached a settlement agreementwith the Housing Authority of Baltimore City for violating the Fair Housing Act(FHA). The housing authority allegedly denied a request for reasonable accommodations for a mother and son with disabilities to be moved to a larger unit closer to family support. Under FHA, housing providers must make reasonable accommodations to provide persons with disabilities an equal opportunity to use or enjoy a dwelling.

    July 5, 2013

    AUCD, Four UCEDDs, and Two LENDs Host Representatives from the Community Development Authority in Dubai - AUCD
    AUCD, four University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs) and two Leadership in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LENDs) Programs had the pleasure of hosting three representatives from the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates during the week of June 24th.
    July 4, 2013

    HHS Awards Grants to Sign Up Children for Health Coverage - Disabilty.gov

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has announced nearly $32 million in grants to identify and enroll children eligible for Medicaid andthe Children's Health Insurance Program.The "Connecting Kids to Coverage Outreach and Enrollment Grants" are part of the Affordable Care Act and range from$190,000 to $1 million. They were awarded to41 state agencies, community health centers, school-based organizations and nonprofit groups in 22 states; two grantees are multistate organizations.


    FCC Kicks Off Speaker Series Featuring Innovation in Accessible Technologies - July 16 - Disabilty.gov

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) kicks off its new "Accessibility & Innovation Initiative Speaker Series" on July 16, 2013 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.in Washington, DC. This series focuses on innovation in accessible communications technologies that will benefit people with hearing and speech disabilities.ColoradoProfessor Clayton Lewis will present "The Future of Inclusive Design Online" on July 16, which will be followed by a demonstration of accessible technology solutions.


    Medical Transportation Services Company Sued for Denying Reasonable Accommodation & Firing Employee with Multiple Sclerosis - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedLifecare Medical Services, Inc. with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Ohio-based company allegedly denied an employee a reasonable accommodation of requested leave to accommodate his multiple sclerosis. Instead, the employee was disciplined for absences due to his disability. When the employee requested points under the company's no-fault attendance policy, the company fired him.

    July 3, 2013

    No Impact Seen on Autism Health Benefits from ACA Delay - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Existing insurance coverages, new health exchanges not affected

    July 03, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (July 3, 2013) -- The Obama administration's decision to delay certain reporting requirements under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by private employersis not expected to have any measurable impact onexistingautism coverages, according to an initial analysis by Autism Speaks.

    A one-year delay announced by the U.S. Treasury Departmentis limited toprivate employers with more than 50 workersthat do not offer any health insurance. Private and publicemployers of any sizethat do offer health insuranceas well as the new health benefit exchanges created under the ACA are not affected.

    The announcement by the Treasury Department delayed until 2015 a provision under the ACA requiringfines onlarge employers that fail to provide health insurance coverage to their workers.The delaywas attributed to difficulties implementing reporting procedures.

    For further insight, read: 'Delay in health insurance law won't affect many, experts say'


    New Mobile Version of Benefits.gov - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Labor has announced that Benefits.gov has released a mobile-compatible version of its website. Benefits.gov, the U.S. government's official benefits website is accessible for visitors using mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. A new feature is the "Benefit Finder," a search tool that asks questions to better help users find the government programs they may be eligible to receive. The website is available in English and Spanish.


    Justice Department Files Fair Housing Lawsuit against Rental Homeowners & Managers in WA State for Disability Discrimination - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the owners and managers of rental homes in the Kelso and Longview, WA areas for violating the Fair Housing Act.The lawsuit alleges that the homeowners and managers discriminated against people with disabilities by eliminating the $1,000 "pet deposit" for service animals with specialized training, but not for other assistance animals, including emotional support animals.


    Listen Technologies Provides Assistive Listening Solution Set for California Companies to Adapt and Adopt to the New 2013 California Building Standards Code - PRNewswire

    SACRAMENTO, Calif., July 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- California building and accessibility standards are changing and Listen Technologies is providing a solution set for California builders, architects, AV professionals and building owners to adapt and adopt the new standards for the...



    HomeFinder.com and CENTURY 21® Team Up to Give Back to Easter Seals - PRNewswire
    CHICAGO, July 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- HomeFinder.com, a leader in digital marketing solutions for real estate agents and online real estate, today announced that it is teaming up with the CENTURY 21 System to support Easter Seals. For every CENTURY 21 agent who enters the...
    July 2, 2013

    Container Company Sued for Denying Reasonable Accommodation & Firing Employee with Back Disability - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedRockTenn CP, LLC, formerly known as Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation, with allegeddisability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act.Smurfit-Stone, in Latta, SC allegedly denied an employee areasonable accommodation to take medical leave when the employee was hospitalized with a severe back condition. The company then fired the employee because he could not return to work on a deadline set by Smurfit-Stone. The employee was given a medical release to return to work the week after the company's deadline, but the company did not accept that.


    Numotion Acquires ATS Wheelchair and Medical - PRNewswire

    BOISE, Idaho, July 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Numotion, formerly ATG Rehab and United Seating & Mobility, announces its acquisition of ATS Wheelchair and Medical, a custom mobility and medical supplies provider based in Boise, ID.  (Logo:...



    Independence Day: Providing Severely Injured Vets With A House To Come Home To - PRNewswire

    NEW YORK, July 2, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A new campaign is launching this week, coinciding with Independence Day, to raise awareness of the Building for America's Bravest program. Supported by the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Building for America's Bravest...



    The Ticket to Work Program & the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission - Know Your Rights & Responsibilities - July 24 - Disabilty.gov

    If you receive Social Security disability benefits and want to make more money through work, theTicket to Work (TTW) programcan help. Register for a free webinar on July 24, 2013, from 3 – 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. You will learn about the basics of TTW, the U.S.Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's role in enforcing employment laws and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Register online or call1-866-968-7842 (V)or1-866-833-2967 (TTY).


    Restaurant Chain Sued for Firing Employee with Shunt in Arm for Cystic Fibrosis Treatment - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedChipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The restaurant chain allegedly fired an employee at its Franklin, MA location after she arrived at workwith a shunt in her arm for the intravenous treatment of cystic fibrosis. Firing an employee because of a disability or perceived disabilty is against the law.


    Medical Services Provider Sued for Denying Reasonable Accommodation & Firing Employee with Rheumatoid Arthritis - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedDetroit Community Health Connection with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Detroit medical services provider allegedly denied an employee a reasonable accommodation of medical leave to accommodate herrheumatoid arthritis. The company then fired her because of her disability. Under the lawsuit, the company must provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities in the future.


    Students with Disabilities Use Adaptive Lab Resources During Summer Program - Disabilty.gov

    Purdue University'sInstitute for Accessible Science (IAS) allows college students with disabilities to be members of research teams using adapted and assistive technologies. TheIAS Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship program matches students with a researcher and program of their interest. Study areas includeanimal sciences, biological sciences, food science, biomedical engineering, and medicinal chemistry and molecular pharmacology. The program encourages students with disabilities to pursue science careers.


    Oregon Governor Gets Autism Insurance Reform Bill - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Approved unanimously by the Legislature, bill would make Oregon 34th state to enact reform

    July 01, 2013

    SALEM (July 1, 2013) -- The Oregon House of Representatives voted 56-0 for autism insurance reform and sent the bill to Governor John Kitzhaber (below). If signed, the bill would make Oregon the 34th state to enact autism insurance reform.

    Both houses of the Legislature approved the bill, SB.365, sponsored by Sen. Alan Bates (D-Medford), unanimously.

    The bill would require state-regulated health plans to cover up to 25 hours per week of applied behavioral analysis (ABA). A seven-member Behavior Analysis Regulatory Board would be created within the Oregon Health Licensing Agency to license providers. The new coverage would start in 2015 for public employees and in 2016 for state-regulated health plans.

    The Legislature also has sent KitzhaberSB.414, sponsored by Sen. Chip Shields (D-Portland), which would enable the state Insurance Division to order health plans to pay restitution to consumers if they violate the law or their contracts.State regulators currently have very limited enforcement powers over the insurance industry which has an exemption from Oregon's anti-fraud laws.


    Ohio ABA Provider Issue Resolved - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Kasich signs bill creating certification process to enable insurance coverage

    July 01, 2013

    COLUMBUS (July 1, 2013) -- Gov. John Kasich has signed the state budget bill, which includes an amendment establishinga state certification process for providers of applied behavior analysis (ABA). With this resolved, ABA will be reimbursable when the state's new autism insurance coverage takes effect in 2014.

    The issue arose earlier this year when Governor John Kasich signed an order requiring that ABA for autism be included in all insurance plans issuedthroughOhio's new health benefit exchangecreated under the Affordable Care Act.Under the amendment, the Ohio Board of Psychology will be responsible for certifying Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) as "certified Ohio behavior analysts."

    The amendment was produced by a working group of stakeholders and provider groups to assure no disruption in existing services while expanding access to quality ABA providers.

    In addition to Ohioans who will start getting their insurance through the health benefit exchange in 2014, state employees have accepted Kasich's offer to have the benefit included in their health plans. Autism Speaks is committed to gettingthe coverage extended to all state-regulated health plans in Ohio.

    July 1, 2013

    NISH - Creating Employment Opportunities for People with Significant Disabilities Relaunches as SourceAmerica - PRNewswire
    VIENNA, Va., July 1, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- NISH, the national nonprofit that creates employment opportunities for people with significant disabilities, has rebranded as SourceAmerica, the organization announced today. Established in 1974, the organization creates job...

    Patent-Pending Flip A Grip™ Lends a Helping Hand to Seniors - PRNewswire

    WOOSTER, Ohio, July 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- For those having trouble getting into their homes, or are afraid of falling, a physical therapist has invented a product that can lend a helping hand. The Flip A Grip™ is a patent pending handle that can be...


    June 29, 2013

    Free Webinars & Audio Conferences on Accessibility Topics - Disabilty.gov

    AccessibilityOnline is anonline training program run bythe Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) National Network and the U.S. Access Board. The program offers a series of free webinars and audio conferences aboutaccessibility as it relates to the built environment, information and communications technologies and transportation. Presentations on other accessibility topics are in the site's archives section.


    Access Board Releases Proposed Guidelines for Passenger Ships - Comment Deadline September 12 - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Access Board has releases proposed guidelinesfor passenger ships. The guidelines provide design information for the construction or modificaion of large vessels that carry more than 150 people to make sure that they are accessible to people with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A public hearing on the guidelines will be held on July 10, 2013 from 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. in Washington, DC.Comment deadline is September 12, 2013.


    ADA Audio Conference Series: Athletic Opportunities for Students with Disabilities - August 20 - Disabilty.gov

    The ADA National Network will hold a session on August 20, 2013 from 2 – 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time on athletic opportunities for students with disabilities, with a focus on colleges and universities. The session will provide advice on how to integrate students with disabilities into mainstream athletic programs and how to create adapted programs. Registerand choose to attend either by telephone or webinar.


    Twenty-two Genesis HealthCare Centers Receive Prestigious National Award for Significant Commitment To Quality Care - PRNewswire
    KENNETT SQUARE, Pa., June 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Genesis HealthCare, one of the nation's largest providers of skilled nursing and rehabilitation, today announced that 22 of its Centers have been recognized as recipients of National Quality Awards presented by the American Health...
    June 28, 2013

    Oregon House Votes to Toughen Enforcement of Insurers - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Health plans would be required to pay restitution

    June 28, 2013

    SALEM (June 28, 2013) -- The Oregon House has approved and sent Gov. John Kitzhaber a bill which would empower the state Insurance Division to order health plans to pay restitution to consumers if they violate the law or their contracts. Sponsored by Sen. Chip Shields (D-Portland), the bill(SB.414) was approved 47-13.

    Oregon state regulators currently have very limited enforcement powers over the insurance industry which has an exemption from Oregon's anti-fraud laws.

    Final legislative action on Oregon's autism insurance reform bill, SB.365B, is expected shortly strating with a Senate vote Saturday. If signed by Kitzhaber, the bill would make Oregon the 34th state to enact autism insurance reform.


    HHS Secretary Recognizes June as PTSD Awareness Month - Disabilty.gov

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebeilus calls on all Americans to be aware of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) this month and throughout the year. PTSD is a severe anxiety disorder that can occur when people experience a traumatic event. If you or someone you care about has PTSD, call1-800-273-8255 (press “1” if you are a Veteran, Service Member, or calling about one), or visit the Veterans Crisis Line.


    Disability.gov's 'What's Your Connection?' Submission Deadline Is July 31 - Disabilty.gov

    Disability.gov has launched the"What's Your Connection?" initiative to celebrate the website's 10th anniversary. The initiative was developedto highlight disability as a natural part of life and to promote inclusion.Most people either know someone who hasa disability or have a disability themselves. People are asked to submit a captioned photograph or video that answers the question "What's your connection with disability?" Submission deadline is July 31, 2013.


    American Council of the Blind 2013 Convention - July 4 - 12 - Disabilty.gov

    The American Council of the Blind's (ACB) 52nd annual conference and convention will be heldJuly 4 - 12, 2013 in Columbus, OH."Discovering New Worlds" will feature seminars, workshops, programs and technology. Suscribe to the ACB convention email listto receive convention information announcements.


    WRAL Reports on NC Fight for Insurance Coverage - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Raleigh station profiles debate over HB.498

    June 28, 2013

    RALEIGH (June 28, 2013) -- WRAL-TV reported on the fight for HB.498 which has been voted out of the House of Representatives and supported by Governor McCrory, but can't get a hearing in the Senate. See the video below and read the online story here

    June 27, 2013

    VA Works to Raise Awareness about PTSD - Disabilty.gov

    June is Post Traumatic Stress Awareness (PTSD) Month. In observance, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Center for PTSD invites the public to participate in its “Take the Step.The campaign highlghts different topics so visitors can learn more about PTSD, challenge their beliefs, explore the treatment options available, and reach out to make a difference.


    Obesity Impacting More With Disabilities - DisabiltyScoop
    New research indicates that obesity is a far greater problem for people with disabilities than previously thought.

    TRICARE 'Turns Back the Clock' On Military Families - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Policy changes restrict ABA under ECHO, Basic and pilot programs

    June 27, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (June 27, 2013) -- Military families will face new restrictions and cutbacks obtaining applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for their children with autism under new policies made public this week by TRICARE, the Department of Defense health benefits program.

    "These policies drastically change how ABA is covered under TRICARE and will impact all beneficiaries and service providers," said Karen Driscoll, Autism Speaks' associate director for federal government affairs and military relations. "Autism Speaks is very concerned about the imposition of age and duration limits, threatened cutoffs for treatment, and the administrative hurdles to access care.

    "Military families deserve better,"she said. “Our clinical science and advocacy teams are working on a report and plan of action to address. Please stay tuned for policy updates.”

    See TRICARE's released policies here:

    • ECHO (Extended Care Health Option) demonstration programfor active duty personnel
    • Basic policies for all beneficiaries
    • Pilot program. Ordered by Congress in late 2012, this program was intended to expand ABA coverage under a 12-monthpilot program for dependents of non-active duty service personnel

    United Spinal Elects David C. Cooper as New Board Chairman: Strong Support For People With Disabilities - PRNewswire

    NEW YORK, June 27, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- United Spinal Association today announced the election of David C. Cooper, a U.S. Army veteran and wheelchair user as its new chairman of the board. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110413/MM82757LOGO) Cooper's focus will be...



    Weight Watchers Announces Accessibility Initiative For Blind And Visually Impaired Members - PRNewswire
    NEW YORK, June 27, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Weight Watchers International, Inc. (NYSE: WTW) today announced its ongoing initiative to make its websites, mobile applications and print information more accessible and inclusive for its members and subscribers with visual impairments. ...

    The National Center for Cultural Competence Announces Publication of "Experiential Learning: Cultural and Linguistic Competence Checklist for MCH Training Programs" - AUCD
    The National Center for Cultural Competence is pleased to announce the availability of a new product to support MCH training programs. "Experiential Learning: Cultural and Linguistic Competence Checklist for MCH Training Programs" is designed to assist programs in examining how they are addressing cultural and linguistic competence in non-classroom training experiences such as clinical placements, community experiences, research projects, and more.

    Kentucky Legislature Hears of Denials, Delays - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Special committee weighs enforcement issues with 2010 law

    June 27, 2013

    FRANKFORT(June 27, 2013) --A special legislative committee heard complaints of denials and delays under Kentucky's 2010 autism insurance reform law at a hearing here.

    "I want to get fixed whatever is not working correctly,”Rep. Jeff Greer, co-chair of the InterimJoint Committee on Banking and Insurance, told the Floyd County Times. Last year, the state Department of Insurance had to intervene with health plans to provide appropriate coverage.

    Lorri Unumb, Autism Speaks' vice president for state government affairs, told the committee that insurershad failed to recognize applied behavior analysis (ABA) asmedically necessary treatment while fighting the bill in the Legislature, but that the issue should have been resolved now that measure has been law for over two years. She said implementation issues are not uncommon when autism insurance reform laws are put in place.

    Read theFloyd County Times coverage here


    Oregon Insurance Bills Head to Final Floor Votes - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Oregon on track to become 34th state to enact autism insurance reform

    June 27, 2013

    SALEM (June 27, 2013) -- The Oregon Legislature's Joint Ways and Means Committee has released the autism insurance reform bill, SB-365, to the Senate and House floors for final action. If signed by Gov. John Kitzhaber, Oregon would become the 34th state to enact reform.

    Sponsored by Sen. Alan Bates (D-Medford), the bill would require state-regulated health plans to cover up to 25 hours per week of applied behavioral analysis (ABA) for children through age 8.Aseven-member Behavior Analysis Regulatory Board would be created within the Oregon Health Licensing Agency to license providers.

    Meanwhile, a final House vote is expected on SB.414, sponsored by Sen. Chip Shields (D-Portland) which would enable the state Insurance Division to order health plans to pay restitution to consumersif they violate the law or their contracts.The Senate passed the bill 19-10. State regulators currently have very limited enforcement powers over the insurance industry which has an exemption from Oregon's anti-fraud laws.

    June 26, 2013

    TRX Supports Open Hand Atlanta - PRNewswire

    ATLANTA, June 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- TRX, Inc. (www.trx.com), a global leader in travel data and technology, today announced an ongoing volunteer partnership with Open Hand Atlanta.   (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120514/CL06536LOGO ) Kicking off this week, TRX...



    Smithsonian Spotlights Disability History - DisabiltyScoop
    With a new exhibit focusing on disability history, the Smithsonian Institution is ushering in a first for the venerable network of museums.

    Despite High Court Ruling, ADA Issue Resurfaces - DisabiltyScoop
    More than a decade after the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed his right to use a golf cart while competing, a famed golfer with a disability is again fighting for accommodations on the links.

    World Market Report for Personal Mobility Devices - Wheelchairs, Scooters and Walking Aids: 2013 Edition - PRNewswire

    DUBLIN, June 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/c6qpm6/world_market_for) has announced the addition of the "World Market for Personal Mobility Devices - Wheelchairs, Scooters and Walking Aids" report to their...


    June 25, 2013

    Study: Charters Edge Out Neighborhood Schools In Special Education - DisabiltyScoop
    As charter schools continue to proliferate across the country, a new study finds that they are offering benefits for students with disabilities.

    Race, Ethnicity May Influence Access To Autism Care - DisabiltyScoop
    Minorities with autism are far less likely than those who are white to receive care from specialists for co-occurring medical conditions, a new study finds.

    Justin Bieber Makes Wish Reality For Fan With Down Syndrome - DisabiltyScoop
    An 8-year-old with Down syndrome got to live out her dream, scoring a meeting with pop star Justin Bieber.

    Education Department Issues Guidance on IDEA Requirements for Braille Instruction - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Education has issued a guidance letter to states and public agencies on the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to provide Braille instructions to students who are blind or visually impaired. The letter stresses that Braille instruction is an important literacy tool for these students. The letter responds to parent and advocate complaints that Braille instruction has gone down significantly over the years. This link opens a PDF document.


    National Museum of American History Launches History of Disability Online Exhibition - PRNewswire
    WASHINGTON, June 25, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History will launch "EveryBody: An Artifact History of Disability in America" to explore themes and events related to the history of people with disabilities in the U.S. and offer a new...

    Hamilton Relay Announces Scholarship Award Winners - PRNewswire
    AURORA, Neb., June 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Hamilton Relay is excited to announce the recipients of the 2012-2013 High School Scholarship award. Since 2010, Hamilton Relay has awarded $500 each year to graduating high school seniors who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind or have...

    Advocates Push For Hate Crimes Prosecution In Autism Death - DisabiltyScoop
    A federal agency is joining a group of disability self-advocates to call for hate crimes charges in the death of a teen with autism, allegedly at the hands of his mother.
    June 24, 2013

    HHS Kicks Off Education Campaign about New Health Insurance Marketplace - Disabilty.gov

    The Obama administration has launched the Health Insurance Marketplace to prepare Americans for open enrollment and sign up for private health insurance. On the updatedHealthCare.Govwebsite, consumers can put in information about their health coverage needs and get information on the choices available. A consumer call center is also available to help consumers understand the choices so that they can choose what best suits their needs. The site is available now. Open enrollment in the new Health Insurance Marketplace will not begin untilOctober 1, 2013.


    Jennifer Bass Appointed New Director of the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center - University of Cincinnati LEND Program - AUCD
    Dr. Jennifer Bass, a former psychology trainee in the LEND at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati UCEDD (CCHMC/UC LEND) has been named as its new director.

    Mass. Moves on Autism Benefits for Medicaid - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    ABA, other medically necessary treatment would be included

    June 24, 2013

    BOSTON (June 24, 2013) -- Massachusetts would expand benefits under its2010 autism insurance reform law tothe state's Medicaid program, under a billbefore the Legislature.

    Sponsored by Rep. Danielle Gregoire (D-Marlborough), the bill, H.1026,would require MassHealth to cover medically necessary treatments for autism, including applied behavior analysis (ABA). MassHealth is the state agency that manages Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in Massachusetts.

    The bill is before the Legislature's Joint Committee on Health Care Financing. The bill has 22 co-sponsors.


    FCC Enforces Hearing Aid Compatibility Rules to Benefit Customers with Hearing Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has released two settlements on wireless hearing aid compatibility casesinvolving Airadigm Communications, Inc. dba Airfire Mobile, and TeleGuam Holdings,LLC. The hearing aid compatibility rules make sure that individuals with hearing loss can access wireless phone service without excessive background noise. The settlements will help wireless consumers who live in many rural areas and in Guam, where the companies do business.


    NCD Honors Legacies of Olmstead & Justin Dart - Disabilty.gov

    The National Council on Disability (NCD) celebrates the 14th anniversary of the Supreme Court's Olmstead decision that ruled that Americans with disabilities have the right to participate in community life and live outside of institutions. NCD also honors the late Justin Dart, a disability rights pioneer and former vice chair at NCD who was instrumental in the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.


    Rethink Sponsors Free Summer Seminar to Support Professional Educators in Helping Students with Disabilities Succeed - PRNewswire
    NEW YORK, June 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- This summer, the most trusted source for inclusive education, Rethink, announced they will be on the road with a new series of free workshops for public school teachers and administrators. "Every year professional educators are faced with helping...

    National Federation of the Blind Joins Stevie Wonder and World Blind Union in Calling Upon International Negotiators to Conclude a Successful Treaty for the Blind and Print Disabled - PRNewswire

    BALTIMORE, June 24, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) today joined Stevie Wonder and the World Blind Union in calling upon international negotiators to conclude a successful treaty for the blind and print disabled at a diplomatic conference...



    Four Organizations Receive Charitable Donations from CompTIA Member Communities - PRNewswire

    DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., June 24, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Four deserving organizations are the latest recipients of financial donations from member communities of CompTIA, the leading non-profit association for the information technology (IT)...



    Avril Lavigne Announces CAMP S.T.A.R.S. Summer Camp Scholarship For Kids With Disabilities - PRNewswire

    CHICAGO, June 24, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Avril Lavigne Foundation announced that it will launch CAMP S.T.A.R.S., a program to give children with disabilities the chance to attend summer camp.  The program is an expansion of the Avril Lavigne Foundation's Rockstar Club at...



    New Benefit Options Introduced by MassMutual Help Set African-American Young Professionals on the Road to Financial Security - PRNewswire
    SPRINGFIELD, Mass., June 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- While the number of African-Americans in the U.S. continues to show tremendous growth in spending power, they also continue to face a stark reality, as they work towards their versions of the American Dream: the possibility of...

    LifeProof Becomes Official Mobile Accessory Partner of the Challenged Athletes Foundation - PRNewswire

    SAN DIEGO, June 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- LifeProof announced today that it has been named the Challenged Athletes Foundation® (CAF) official mobile accessory partner to support their shared goals of freedom and mobility. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110223/MM53531LOGO)...



    Poll Finds Disability Caregivers On The Rise - DisabiltyScoop
    An increasing number of Americans say they are responsible for caring for a child with a disability, a new survey finds.

    2013 AUCD Awards Nominations - AUCD
    Who do you know that deserves recognition? Nominate an outstanding individual, group, or program today for an AUCD award.
    June 23, 2013

    Upcoming Webinars from the LEAD Center for Workforce Development Professionals & Job Seekers - Disabilty.gov

    The LEAD Center has two upcoming webinars to help promote employment among people with disabilities. On June 26, 2013 from 3 - 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time,Group Discovery: An Alternative Assessment Tool for Workforce Centers and Community-Based Providerswill feature a process called Group Discovery. On July 31, 2013 from 3 - 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time,Promoting Employment - Discovering Your Potential: Using Discovery to Identify Your Employment Goalswill feature an assessment tool that can identify the strengths of job seekers.


    Webinar on Accessibility Planning for Parks, Recreation & Tourism - July 10 - Disabilty.gov

    The ADA National Network is holding a webinar, “Transition Planning: The Dynamic Process for Parks, Recreation and Tourism,” on July 10, 2013, from 2-3:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Federal and state accessibility specialists will discuss legal requirements for making public places and programs accessible to people with disabilities. Registration is free. Learn requirements for attending webinar by computer or mobile device.


    Nation's Braille Whiz Kids Compete in Unique Academic Competition - PRNewswire

    LOS ANGELES, June 22, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On Saturday, June 22, the top blind students from across the United States and Canada met in Los Angeles to put their knowledge of the braille code to the test in the only national academic...


    June 22, 2013

    Food Storage Company to Settle Lawsuit for Failing to Provide Accommodations & Firing Employee with Chronic Back Pain - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has chargedAmericold Logistics, LLC with disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). Americold allegedly refused to allow an employee with chronic back pain withradiculopathy in her legs to return to work from medical leave because she had medical restrictions. The company also refused to provide reasonable accommodations and fired her for failing to return to work. Americold has agreed to train its staff on the ADA.


    The Data Resource Center for Child and Adolescent Health (DRC) announces "research ready" NSCH data files and variable codebooks - AUCD
    Data sets are available by request from the DRC to enhance research capabilities and expedite the advancement of knowledge on child health and health care in the US.

    Oregon Insurance Reform Bill Teed Up for Final Action - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Bates' bill emerges from committee with amendments

    June 21, 2013

    SALEM (June 21, 2013) -- The Oregon autism insurance reform bill, SB.365-9A, has been voted out of a subcommittee and lined up for final action by the Legislature and Governor John Kitzhaber.

    Sponsored by Sen. Alan Bates, the bill yesterday was voted out of the Human Services subcommittee of the Legislature's Joint Ways and Means Committee. The full Joint Ways and Means Committee is scheduled to vote Monday on the amended bill, which would then go to the Senate and House of Representatives for final legislative approval.

    The final version of the bill is available here.

    June 21, 2013

    Webinar on Building an Inclusive Business Culture - June 27 - Disabilty.gov

    This webinar will be held on June 27, 2013 from 2 – 3 p.m. Employers will learn about creating an inclusive business culture and how to build awareness among all employees about the talents and contributions of people with disabilities in the workplace.


    Putting Their Skills To The Test: Nation's top blind students come to Los Angeles to compete in unique academic competition - PRNewswire
    LOS ANGELES, June 21, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On Saturday, June 22, the top blind students from across the United States and Canada will meet in Los Angeles to put their knowledge of the braille code to the test in the only national academic competition for blind students in...

    Sundance Channel's Push Girls star, Chelsie Hill, Leads Line Up of New Products, Services and Technology at Abilities Expo-The Nation's Leading Expo for People with Disabilities on June 28-30 - PRNewswire
    CHICAGO, June 21, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on June 28-30, 2013 at Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center. Admission is free and...

    United Spinal's Roll on Capitol Hill Unites People with Disabilities to Shape Policy - PRNewswire

    NEW YORK, June 21, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- United Spinal Association and its membership division, National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA), mobilized over 50 wheelchair users and consumer activists from across the country for the 2nd annual Roll on Capitol...



    Born Deaf, Brain Implant Offers Boy Ability To Hear - DisabiltyScoop
    A novel procedure is offering one little boy the chance to hear for the very first time.

    With Fewer Kids Learning Braille, Schools Told To Step Up - DisabiltyScoop
    Amid concerns that many with visual impairments are not learning to read Braille, federal officials are reminding schools that they have a legal obligation to teach the tactile writing system.

    VA's New Online Application to Speed Processing of Veterans' Disability Claims - Disabilty.gov

    The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has created an online application called eBenefits that processes disability claims faster. The VA urges Veterans to use the new application process to receive faster decisions on their applications and to help reduce claims backlogs. eBenefits also lets Veterans electronically submit copies of records and supporting evidence for their claims, and to choose representatives to help them.


    NCD Urges Prosecution of Hate Crimes against People with Disabilities after Death of Teenager with Autism - Disabilty.gov

    The National Council on Disability (NCD) has asked the U.S.Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to make sure that people who commit hate crimes and injure people with disabilities are fully prosecuted. On June 10, 2013, the mother and godmother of a 14-year old male with autism, his caregivers, murdered the teenager because of his disability. The NCD urges local and federal prosecutors to prosecute hate crimes against people with disabilities.

    June 20, 2013

    Nonverbal 5-Year-Old Booted From Theater For Making Noise - DisabiltyScoop
    A girl with a disability was kicked out of a performance of the play "Beauty and the Beast" because she was giggling and humming along with the show, her mother says.

    Mme Ravalomanana Calls for Unity in Address to Moramanga People on UN World Refugee Day - PRNewswire
    ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar, June 20, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The campaign for Madagascar's Mouvance Ravalomanana continues apace. Speaking ahead of her election rally in the regional province of Moramanga on World Refugee Day today, Presidential Candidate Lalao Ravalomanana expressed the need...

    The Boggs Center (NJ UCEDD) Transferred to Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey - AUCD
    The change comes as a result of the New Jersey Medical and Health Sciences Education Restructuring Act. The Center will remain The Boggs Center and a part of Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, which will become Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
    June 19, 2013

    National Federation of the Blind Commends Department of Education for New Guidelines on Braille Instruction - PRNewswire

    BALTIMORE, June 19, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind commended the Department of Education for guidelines on Braille instruction issued in a Dear Colleague Letter earlier today.  The letter clarifies the provisions of the Individuals with...



    North Carolina Car Donations Answers The Question: Where Can I Donate My Car? - PRNewswire

    NORTHWEST, N.C., June 19, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Owners of used cars in North Carolina have found an excellent alternative for low end trade-ins when buying new cars: making car donations to Goodwill in North Carolina.  Instead of accepting small, inconsequential trade-ins on...



    Veterans Claims Advocates Provides Fast, Affordable VA Claims Services to Disabled Veterans - PRNewswire
    BOSTON, June 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- For veterans with a service-connected injury, filing a disability claim with the Veteran's Administration and winning a just award just got a lot easier. Veterans Claims Advocates today announced that it is now offering fast, affordable VA claims...

    Mom With Disability, Child Held Captive For Years, Feds Say - DisabiltyScoop
    A woman with a cognitive disability and her daughter were held captive for over two years in an Ohio home where they were abused and made to perform manual labor, prosecutors allege.

    For Those With Autism, Sound Of Human Voice May Be Unpleasant - DisabiltyScoop
    New research may help explain why individuals with autism often fail to grasp the social and emotional elements of speech.

    California Legislature, Brown Fail on Medi-Cal Agreement - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Thousands of children lose ABA in transition out of Healthy Families

    June 18, 2013
    SACRAMENTO (June 18, 2013) --The California Legislature and Governor Brown were unable toreach a funding agreement to continue autism therapies for 900,000 children who transitionedout ofthe Healthy Families Program earlier this year into Medi-Cal. Autism Speaks will work until every person with autism has appropriate access to necessary medical therapies, regardless of how they access that care.
    The Brown administration had assured legislators that the transfers would not take place unless children were assured of receiving"adequate care" through Medi-Cal. Instead, families were told they were losing access to ABA with as little as one week's notice.
    Make sure you are registered at http://advocacy.autismspeaks.org/register and when you receive our alerts, open them & follow the directions to effect change.
    June 18, 2013

    HHS Releases 2013 Update on Progress of National Alzheimer's Disease Plan - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released theNational Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease: 2013 Update. The update reports on progress made toward the goals set in 2012, and new and revised action steps. The plan includes finding ways to prevent and treat Alzheimer's disease by 2025, improving care for Alzheimer's patients, increasing support for people with dementia and their families, increasing public awareness, and tracking data.


    NCD Statement of Support during LGBT Pride Month - Disabilty.gov

    The National Council on Disability (NCD) joins in the yearly celebration of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month-June. NCD celebraties its commitment to advancing the rights for all Americans, including LGBT Americans and LGBT Americans with disabilities.


    Long Term Disability Claim Payments Increase While the Number of Covered Workers Rises - PRNewswire
    PORTLAND, Maine, June 18, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Council for Disability Awareness (CDA) today released its eighth annual Long Term Disability Claims Review, which consolidates and summarizes claim data and trends from America's top disability insurance companies. CDA...

    e-pill Medication Reminders Announces Availability of World's First Easy-to-Use Locked Pill Automatic Dispenser, Promoting Independent Living for People With Disabilities and Dexterity-Challenged Patients While Ensuring Chronic Medications Are T - PRNewswire

    WELLESLEY, Mass., June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today e-pill Medication Reminders announced that a new device (e-pill Station) is being released for sale in the United States and Canada for patients on chronic medications with limited use of their hands such as patients with...



    Viral Photo Sparks Debate About Inclusion - DisabiltyScoop
    A second grade class photo is stirring outrage online after a student who uses a wheelchair was depicted sitting apart from his peers.

    California Leglislature and Governor Fail to Agree to Expand Therapy - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Legislature and governor could not reach an agreement which would expand autism therapies to more people through Medi-Cal

    June 18, 2013
    SACRAMENTO (June , 2013) -- Sadly, the California Legislature and Governor could not reach an agreement which would expand autism therapies to more people through Medi-Cal. Autism Speaks will work until every person with autism has appropriate access to necessary medical therapies, regardless of how they access that care.
    Make sure you are registered at http://advocacy.autismspeaks.org/register and when you receive our alerts, open them & follow the three easy directions inside!

    Utah Adds Another 35 Slots in ABA Lottery Program - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Medicaid-funded pilot project helps serve 18,000 diagnosed children

    June 18, 2013

    SALT LAKE CITY (June 18, 2013) -- The state of Utah, which has the highest autism rate in the nation, will add 35 slots to a Medicaid-funded ABA program offered through a lottery, according to The Salt Lake Tribune.The Utah Autism Coalition has estimated over 18,000 children in the state have been diagnosed with autism.

    The pilot program was enacted in 2012 after the Legislature abandoned an autism insurance reform bill. Because the pilot program was slow to start,funding became available to provide for the 35 additional slots. In addition, the age of eligibility was raised from 5 to 6.

    The 35 slots will be distributed statewide on the basis of population and chosenthrough a lottery, rather than first-come, first-serve basis.


    Fedcap Celebrates Achievements of 2013 Graduates at Ceremony at Harlem's World Famous Apollo Theater, Tuesday, June 18 at 11 a.m. - PRNewswire
    NEW YORK, June 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --  Fedcap will mark the achievements of more than 400 individuals who have completed its job training programs in a graduation ceremony today at the World Famous Apollo Theater in Harlem. The graduates include many individuals working to...

    e-pill Medication Reminders Announces Availability of World's First Easy-to-Use Locked Pill Automatic Dispenser, Promoting Independent Living for People With Disabilities and Dexterity-Challenged Patients While Ensuring Chronic Medications Are T - PRNewswire

    WELLESLEY, Mass., June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today e-pill Medication Reminders announced that a new device (e-pill Station) is being released for sale in the United States and Canada for patients on chronic medications with limited use of their hands such as patients with...



    Dirty Air May Double Autism Risk - DisabiltyScoop
    Exposure to high levels of air pollution during pregnancy may double the chances that a child will have autism, a team of Harvard researchers said Tuesday.
    June 17, 2013

    Study Finds Adult Day Care Programs Benefit Both People Living with Alzheimer's & Their Caregivers - Disabilty.gov

    A new studyhas foundthat adult day care centers offer people with Alzheimer's disease opportunities to be active, and give family members a break from caregiving. Researchers found that caregivers had lower levels of stress on the days when care centers were used. Visit the Alzheimer's Foundation of Americawebsite for more information and resources for caregivers.


    What's Your Connection? - Disabilty.gov

    There are nearly 57 million individuals with disabilities in the United States, and they are all connected to the people around them in some way. To celebrate our 10th anniversary, Disability.gov has created the "What's Your Connection?" initiative, a grassroots movement emphasizing the connections among all people. Tell us what your connection is.


    Federal Goverment Issues Letter on Hepatitis B Discrimination by Medical, Dental Schools - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. departments of Justice, Education and Health and Human Services have sent a letter to the nation's medical, dental, nursing, and other health-related schools about hepatitis B discrimination. The letter expresses concern that some schools may be making enrollment decisions based on an incorrect understanding of the risk and frequency of hepatitis B transmission in this environment. The letter informs schools on the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.


    ABC Television Network is New Home of MDA Show of Strength Telethon - PRNewswire

    TUCSON, Ariz., June 17, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Muscular Dystrophy Association's nationally broadcast telethon, one of America's longest-standing and beloved fundraising and entertainment events, will return this Labor Day weekend with a new broadcast home: the ABC...



    One-armed Skydiver Triumphs Over Life-changing Injuries - PRNewswire
    MINNEAPOLIS, June 17, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Kevin Burkart will attempt a world skydiving record to benefit his father and all those living with Parkinson's on Wednesday, June 19, 2013. The event will be held from 5:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. at Skydive Twin Cities in...

    Ford B-Max bietet Zugänglichkeit für alle mit einem Turnout-Schwenksitz - PRNewswire

    STENKULLEN, Schweden, June 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Das schwedische Unternehmen Autoadapt arbeitet mit Ford-Händlern an einem Programm, das sich auf Mobilitätlösungen für Menschen mit eingeschränkter Beweglichkeit spezialisiert. Mit sozialer Verantwortung als...



    La Ford B-Max abbatte le barriere grazie al sedile uscente girevole - PRNewswire

    STENKULLEN, Svezia, June 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- L'azienda svedese Autoadapt collabora con i concessionari Ford a un programma dedicato alle soluzioni di mobilità per i passeggeri con capacità motorie ridotte. Partendo dal concetto strategico di responsabilità sociale,...



    Le Ford B-Max offre un accès pour tous grâce au siège pivotant Turnout - PRNewswire

    STENKULLEN, Sweden, June 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- La société suédoise Autoadapt collabore avec les concessionnaires Ford dans le cadre d'un programme dédié aux solutions de mobilité pour les personnes à mobilité réduite. Avec la...



    Ford B-max tillgänglig för alla med det vridbara sätet Turnout - PRNewswire

    STENKULLEN, Sweden, June 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Svenska Autoadapt samarbetar med återförsäljare till Ford i ett program som riktar sig mot mobila lösningar för personer med begränsad rörlighet. Med socialt ansvar som strategisk utgångspunkt vill...



    e-pill Medication Reminders Announces Availability of World's First Easy-to-Use Locked Pill Automatic Dispenser, Promoting Independent Living for People With Disabilities and Dexterity-Challenged Patients While Ensuring Chronic Medications Are T - PRNewswire

    WELLESLEY, Mass., June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today e-pill Medication Reminders announced that a new device (e-pill Station) is being released for sale in the United States and Canada for patients on chronic medications with limited use of their hands such as patients with...



    HBO Documentary Follows Beauty Queens With Special Needs - DisabiltyScoop
    A beauty pageant just for girls with disabilities is the subject of a new documentary set to premiere on HBO.

    Amusement Park Faces Backlash Over Disability Access - DisabiltyScoop
    A change to the way one amusement park accommodates visitors with disabilities is angering some families who say their kids are no longer able to enjoy a place that's supposed to be fun.

    Ilka Riddle, PhD, Appointed New Director of the University of Cincinnati University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities - AUCD
    Dr. Riddle earned her master's degree and PhD in human development and family studies from the University of Delaware, Newark, DE. Prior to coming to the UC UCEDD as Associate Director last year, Riddle was the Health Unit Leader and a Project Director at the Center for Disabilities Studies at the University of Delaware.

    Karen Edwards, MD, MPH to Lead at Westchester Institute for Human Development - AUCD
    Dr. Edwards to serve as the WIHD Vice President for Education, Training and Research and Director of the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND), an interdisciplinary fellowship program administered in partnership with WIHD's primary academic partner, New York Medical College (NYMC).

    Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center (UCEDD/LEND) Launches Online Course for Parents of Children with Autism - AUCD
    Discovering Behavioral Intervention: A Parent's Interactive Guide to Applied Behavior Analysis is an online instructional guide that was created by parents and child development experts from UMass Medical School's Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center to help parents of children with autism and the professionals who support them.

    NY Legislature Removes Hurdle to ABA Coverage - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Autism Speaks, NYSABA cheer passage of bills fixing 2011 insurance reform law

    June 17, 2013

    ALBANY (June 17, 2013) -- Autism Speaks and the New York State Association for Behavior Analysis (NYSABA) today commended the New York Legislature for voting to eliminate a hurdlethat haskept families from accessing ABA care as promised under the state's 2011 autism insurance reform law. Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whose office helped work on the legislation, is expected to sign the measure.

    The bill will create a New York state license for applied behavior analysis (ABA) practitioners that the Board of Regents demanded after the 2011 law was enacted.Without state licensure, ABA providers could not be reimbursedfor their services under the law, which covers state-regulated health benefit plans.

    The legislation was sponsored by Assembly Majority LeaderJoseph Morelle (D-Irondequoit) and Senator Chuck Fuschillo (R-Merrick), the same two lawmakers who championed the 2011 autism insurance reform law.

    “Autism Speaks commends Assemblyman Morelle for delivering once again for New York's autism community,” said Judith Ursitti, Autism Speaks' director for state government affairs. “The passage of this licensure bill will fulfill the promise of New York's autism insurance reform law for thousands of families and Assemblyman Morelle made it happen. We thank Assemblyman Morelle for going the extra mile for our community.”

    Ursitti said, “New York's autism community has come to depend on Senator Chuck Fuschillo for providing the help families need.Autism Speaks thanks Senator Fuschillo for his instrumental role in getting this licensure bill through the Senate. Chuck Fuschillo would not rest until New York families received the access to care they were promised under the autism insurance reform law.”

    NYSABA President Deborah Napolitano said her organization applauded"Assemblyman Morelle and Senator Fuschillo for their continued and unwavering support to ensure that individuals diagnosed with autism have access to treatment and appropriately credentialed providers.This bill protects consumers and provides access. Assemblyman Morelle and Senator Fuschillo deserve high praise for striking this balance."

    The bills, S.4862 and A.6963, will create a state licensing process for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). A new seven-member State Board for Applied Behavior Analysis will be appointed by the Board of Regents and include three licensed behavior analysts, one certified behavior analyst assistant,one licensed psychologist and two public members.

    When the licensure demand was finalized in January, Autism Speaks accused state regulators of ignoring the 2011 law which provided that existing national certification for ABA practitioners would be sufficient. The Autism Speaks Legal Resource Center became involved in the dispute, promising to"use all available means at its disposal" to resolve the issue.

    June 16, 2013

    e-pill Medication Reminders Announces Availability of World's First Easy-to-Use Locked Pill Automatic Dispenser, Promoting Independent Living for People With Disabilities and Dexterity-Challenged Patients While Ensuring Chronic Medications Are T - PRNewswire

    WELLESLEY, Mass., June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today e-pill Medication Reminders announced that a new device (e-pill Station) is being released for sale in the United States and Canada for patients on chronic medications with limited use of their hands such as patients with...



    e-pill Medication Reminders Announces Availability of World's First Easy-to-Use Locked Pill Automatic Dispenser, Promoting Independent Living for People With Disabilities and Dexterity-Challenged Patients While Ensuring Chronic Medications Are T - PRNewswire

    WELLESLEY, Mass., June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today e-pill Medication Reminders announced that a new device (e-pill Station) is being released for sale in the United States and Canada for patients on chronic medications with limited use of their hands such as patients with...



    Perry Expands Autism Insurance Benefits in Texas - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    New law eliminates age cap for autism insurance benefits

    June 15, 2013

    AUSTIN (June 15, 2013) -- Gov. Rick Perry has signed a bill expanding autism insurance benefits in Texas by eliminating anyage caps forstate-regulated health plans.In 2007, Perry signed legislation thatmade Texas just the third state nationally to enact autism insurance reform, then in 2009 signed another bill that raised the age cap from 5 to 9.

    The new law eliminates the age 9 cap, but limits annual ABA benefits to $36,000 a year for children aged 10 and above.Under current law,state-regulated health plans are required to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism, including behavioral health treatment, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), as well as speech, occupational and physical therapy.

    Perry signed the bill without comment at the conclusion of the state's regular legislative session.

    Sponsored by Senators Kirk Watson of Austin, Wendy Davis of Forth Worth and Eddie Lucio, Jr. of Brownsville, SB.1484 will take effect in September.To qualify for the extended coverage,children must be diagnosed with autism by the age of 10 to gain the coverage.

    The House champions for the bill included Rep. Larry Gonzales of Round Rock, Rep. Ron Simmons of Carrollton, and Rep. Senfronia Thompson of Houston.

    Texas is one of four states with existing autism insurance reform laws that has considered bills to expand coverage this year. A fifth state, New Mexico, earlier enacted a new law expanding its coverage to public employees and Kansas, by regulatory action, has made coverage for its state employees permanent. Last year, Louisana, Vermont, Virginia and Rhode Island all expanded coverage under their existing laws.

    Minnesota Gov. Mark Daytonlast month signed a bill that made Minnesota the 33rd state to enact autism insurance reform.Oregon and North Carolina are nearing final action on bills to enact reform, and the District of Columbia is moving forward with reform covering individual, small group andhealth benefit exchange plans.

    June 15, 2013

    Justice Department Reaches Historic Settlement with Rhode Island & City of Providence over ADA Violations - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice has reached an agreement with the state of Rhode Island and the city of Providence to resolve violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Providence and the state were segregating people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) into sheltered workshops and day programs instead of receiving employment services in integrated settings. People with disabilities have the right to receive services in the most integrated settings possible.


    e-pill Medication Reminders Announces Availability of World's First Easy-to-Use Locked Pill Automatic Dispenser, Promoting Independent Living for People With Disabilities and Dexterity-Challenged Patients While Ensuring Chronic Medications Are T - PRNewswire

    WELLESLEY, Mass., June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today e-pill Medication Reminders announced that a new device (e-pill Station) is being released for sale in the United States and Canada for patients on chronic medications with limited use of their hands such as patients with...



    Labor Department Cracks Down on Rhode Island Employer Paying Less Than Minimum Wage to Workers with Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Labor has stopped allowing Training Thru Placement, Inc. (TTP) based in North Providence, RI to pay less than the current federal minimum wage to its workers with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The law allows employers to pay wages less than the federal minimum wage, but only when certain conditions are met. The company failed to determine the appropriate sub-minimum wage to be paid under Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act and also falsified documents to mislead investigators.


    Justice Department Settles with New Jersey Bus Company for Not Providing Equal Service to Passengers with Disabilities - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Justice (Justice) has reached a settlement withDeCamp Bus Lines Inc. to make sure that the bus company provides equal transportation services to people with disabilities. DeCamp allegedly violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by requiring passengers with disabilities to provide 48 hours advance notice to get a wheelchair-accessible bus. The company has agreed to train its staff on the ADA.


    Wounded Warriors Inspire Boston Marathon Amputee - Disabilty.gov

    Wounded warrior amputees at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center have been sharing the wisdom and experience gained through rehabilitation and prosthetic fittings with a man who lost a leg during the Boston Marathon bombings. A visit to the Military Advanced Training Center gave him the opportunity to learn about the latest medical and surgical advances in amputations and prosthetics, while getting support from fellow amputees.


    e-pill Medication Reminders Announces Availability of World's First Easy-to-Use Locked Pill Automatic Dispenser, Promoting Independent Living for People With Disabilities and Dexterity-Challenged Patients While Ensuring Chronic Medications Are T - PRNewswire

    WELLESLEY, Mass., June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today e-pill Medication Reminders announced that a new device (e-pill Station) is being released for sale in the United States and Canada for patients on chronic medications with limited use of their hands such as patients with...


    June 14, 2013

    Pennsylvania Governor Corbett Signs Bill to Improve Special Education Funding - PRNewswire
    WARMINSTER, Pa., June 14, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today ceremonially signed legislation that will improve the way special education funds are distributed in Pennsylvania schools. "This legislation marks another step in our journey toward providing a full...

    Army Medicine Doesn't Just Save Lives, it Gives Lives - PRNewswire

    FORT KNOX, Ky., June 14, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On a May day in 2006, one Soldier's life changed forever—and nearly ended. "I almost died several times," said Col. Gregory Gadson, about the minutes and first few hours after his vehicle hit an IED in Iraq, causing severe...



    UHS-Pruitt Centers Receive 2013 Customer Experience Award From Pinnacle Quality Insight - PRNewswire

    NORCROSS, Ga., June 14, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- UHS-Pruitt Corporation announced that five of its health care centers received the Pinnacle Quality Insight 2013 Customer Service Experience Award™. Qualifying for these awards displays a continued dedication to providing best in class...



    e-pill Medication Reminders Announces Availability of World's First Easy-to-Use Locked Pill Automatic Dispenser, Promoting Independent Living for People With Disabilities and Dexterity-Challenged Patients While Ensuring Chronic Medications Are T - PRNewswire

    WELLESLEY, Mass., June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today e-pill Medication Reminders announced that a new device (e-pill Station) is being released for sale in the United States and Canada for patients on chronic medications with limited use of their hands such as patients with...



    KS State Workers Gain Permanent Autism Benefits - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Pilot insurance program created under 2010 law becomes permanent

    June 14, 2013

    TOPEKA (June 14, 2013) -- A pilot autism insurance benefit created for state employees under a 2010 law has been made permanent by the Kansas State Employee Health Care Commission.

    The decision avoidsthe possibility of Kansas becoming the only state to eliminate autism insurance coverage and sets the stage for renewed efforts to enact broader autism insurance reform.

    The state employee benefit was created under a 2010 law as a "pilot project" to determine whether insurance coverage for essential autism therapies should be extended to more families across the state.According to 2012 claims data,the annual cost to the statewas $266,077, or 24 cents per member per month.


    Better ABA Care for Military Families Moves in House - Autism Speaks - Advocasy

    Larson, Rooney amendment to NDAA would require TRICARE coverage

    June 14, 2013

    WASHINGTON, DC (June 14, 2013) -- The U.S. House of Representatives has approved an amendment to the new defense bill that would require the Pentagon to cover ABA care for all military families raising children with developmental disabilities, including autism, at medically prescribed levels.

    The bipartisan amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was sponsored by Reps. John Larson (D-CT) and Tom Rooney (R-FL) and approved by voice vote. Although the full NDAA still requires House approval, passage of the ABA amendment was the critical step.

    TRICARE, the military's healthplan,covers ABA only for active duty personnel under its ECHO program with benefits capped at $36,000 per year. Military families and their champions in Congress have fought for several years to get uncapped ABA benefits through TRICARE for all military members regardless of their duty status or their branch of service. About 23,000 military dependents have autism.

    "Our military families have waited too long for a permanent solution to the problems accessing behavioral health treatment under TRICARE," said Larson. "It's hard enough being on the battlefield away from home to have the extra burden of worrying about your kids' care."

    Larson [left] said he first learned of the issue several years ago at anAutism Speaks forum in his district where he met the family of aConnecticut Army National Guard officer whose daughter has autism.

    “Telling our troops that their kids can get the treatment they need this year, but maybe not next year, just isn't good enough,” Rooney [right] said. “How can we expect our troops to re-enlist when we can't even guarantee that their kids will get health care treatment a year from now? Our troops and their families deserve a long-term assurance that their children will receive the care they need.”

    In addition to Rooney and Larson, the issue has been championed by House Armed Services Committee Chairman Buck McKeon (R-CA), Ranking Member Adam Smith (D-WA) and Reps. Joe Courtney (D-CT), Walter Jones (R-NC) and Mike Doyle (D-PA).

    A similar ABAamendment was approved by both houses of Congress last year, but in conference committee the provision wasrewritten into a one-year pilot program that TRICARE was directed to start by April 2 of this year. TRICARE has yet to start the pilot program, citing budget cuts, and has yet to alert military families or medical providerswhen it will begin or how it will operate.


    Help for People Living with Mental Illnesses - Disabilty.gov

    If you are unsure where to go for help with a mental illness, there are many places that can help. Get more information about places to go and people to talk to who can connect you with mental health services.


    Labor Department Launches New Online Retirement Toolkit - Disabilty.gov

    The U.S. Department of Labor has launched an online retirement planning toolkit. The toolkit helps workers identify what they need to consider in making smart decisions before retiring. It includes information about how to estimate your retirement benefits; what women need to know about Social Security; Medicare parts A & B; and getting help with prescription drug costs.