Capitol building in Washington DC with cloudy sky in background
Capitol building in Washington DC during the 2024 Disability Policy Seminar

DDC Public Policy Updates and Events

2026 Session Update Video Playlist
Public Policy

Practical Steps to Get and Keep Apple Health Coverage

August 25, 2026

Apple Health provides health coverage and access to important long-term services and supports for many Washington residents. Learn practical steps to apply, keep your information current, complete renewals and get help protecting your coverage.

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Public Policy

Public Policy Updates for August 2026

August 1, 2026

Read about some key issues happening in August 2026. Topics include Olmstead and Section 504, changes to federal oversight of special education and vocational rehabilitation, voting by mail and upcoming changes to Apple Health, including work requirements

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Public Policy

Voting: Get Ready!

July 9, 2026

Get ready for the upcoming election by learning about voting resources, accessible voting options and candidate information. Taking time now can help you feel more prepared when it is time to vote.

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Public Policy

March 2026 Dan Thompson Memorial Account Update

March 6, 2026

As the legislative session winds down, there are still decisions being made about the Dan Thompson Memorial Account. This innovative program has awarded about $45.7 million in grants since 2005, supporting community organizations that help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities build skills, connect with others, and gain new experiences. The article also shares stories from people with IDD, families, and providers about the real impact these grants have had across Washington.

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Public Policy

What is the Legislative Cutoff Calendar - and Why it Matters

February 18, 2026

The Legislative Cutoff Calendar helps track when bills must move through each step of the lawmaking process — and why timing matters for advocacy. With the House of Origin Cutoff now here, bills are moving quickly to the next stage, making this an important moment to stay engaged and speak up.

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Public Policy

How a Bill Becomes a Law and Update for the Week of Feb. 17

February 17, 2026

Bills are currently in the final legislative stages — waiting in the Rules Committee, moving to floor votes, or crossing to the opposite chamber — and the overview below explains how each step fits into the full process of how a bill becomes law.

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Public Policy

Easy Ways to Connect with Your Legislators

February 11, 2026

Learn easy ways to connect with your legislators and share your voice on issues that impact the IDD community, including calling, emailing, commenting on bills, and meeting with elected officials.

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Public Policy

Protect Our Right to Community Living - Advocacy Day January 21st, 2026

January 23, 2026

On January 21, 2026, advocates, self-advocates, families, and partners gathered in Olympia for Advocacy Day: Protect Our Right to Community Living. The day included conversations about issues that affect daily life in the community, a rally, and opportunities for participants to share why services like Medicaid matter.

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Public Policy

2026 Legislative Session Begins

January 8, 2026

The 2026 Legislative Session is underway, with budget decisions focused on maintaining existing supports for people with IDD and opportunities for advocates to take action by sharing their voices with legislators.

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Public Policy

Council Approves 2026 Legislative Priorities

October 27, 2025

The Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council has approved its legislative priorities for 2026 after a multistep review process over the spring and summer. At the October meeting, Council members also recorded a video highlighting the priorities and why they matter.

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Public Policy

Community Advocacy Coalition 2025 Annual Planning Retreat

July 30, 2025

The Developmental Disability Community Advocacy Coalition recently held an in-person planning retreat, bringing together about 50 advocates from across Washington State. The day focused on reflection, collaboration, and visioning for the future of our collective work.

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