This week we gathered in Annapolis for DD Day at the Legislature for yet another standing room crowd-  over 600 advocates in attendance, despite morning snowfall - to rally advocates around shared legislative  priorities. This annual event is sponsored by the DD Coalition. 

We are appreciative of the support and enthusiasm expressed by our legislative champions  and uplifted by the energy and determination of attendees. Check out our new Twitter account (@MdDDCouncil) to recap the event

DD Council member JoEllen Barnhart with sons Adam (center) and Andrew (right) testified in support of SB-413 Crisis Resolution Funding

using #DDDay16. Click here to look at our Facebook photo album capturing in the faces of those present, the spirit  of the theme for this year's event: Equal Rights and Opportunities for all. 

In this issue of  Council Connection, we recognize and thank the legislative champions who spoke at DD Day and provide links to briefings on critical  legislation on Crisis Resolution funding, subminimum wage, ABLE Program, an overview of the proposed budget  for DDA, key legislation supporting school aged children with IEPs, and more. The Council  supports the Governor's proposed budget as it increases funds for those on the waiting list and fully  funds the promised rate increase for providers - but your legislators can make cuts. Contact your legislators  to let them know what you think about the budget and specific legislation you care about - find your legislators here. For weekly updates on bills the Council is supporting and monitoring, check out our website.

Press Release from the DD Coalition:

More than 600 Developmental Disabilities Advocates ask lawmakers in Annapolis to end sub-minimum wages, protect funds for people waiting for services

From TheMarylandReporter.com:

Advocates push for phase out of subminimum wages for workers with disabilities

Deputy Chief of Staff Christopher Shank and Secretary Carol Beatty presented Shonee Moore, Direct Support Professional, with a citation from the Governor for her role in assisting residents of a group home escape from a life threatening house fire. 

In later remarks on the Governor's proposed budget, the Deputy Chief stated, "We can't afford to leave any Marylander behind."

Clockwise left to right: Senator Thomas "Mac" Middleton, Senator Delores Kelley, and Delegate Bonnie Cullison

Clockwise left to right: Senator Guy Guzzone, Senator Brian Feldman, and Senator Craig Zucker