March 2016
Dear Member and Friend of The Arc Maryland:
The Maryland General Assembly 2016 Session and The Arc’s public policy advocacy is in high gear.
Budget hearings, new legislation, and press coverage are all in play. The Governor’s FY 2017 Proposed
Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) Budget is positive for people with intellectual and/or
developmental disabilities and their families. Full funding of the DDA Wage Initiative, full funding for 600
Transitioning Youth, Expanded Funds for Emergencies, Funding for 100 people on the Crisis Resolution
Waiting List, and full annualization to keep ongoing funds for new services. However, we have a major
challenge ahead to hold onto these funds and pass legislation on behalf of the DDA Waiting List,
employment, and civil rights.
DDA Budget hearings were held on February 24 (House of Delegates) and February 29 (Senate). DD Day
on February 10 rallied 600 people – an amazing group of advocates, families and professionals who were
seen throughout the state house and legislative buildings cultivating and educating legislators on our
issues. This is where you come in! Our greatest asset is our grassroots families, people with disabilities,
volunteers, chapter professionals and YOU! You can keep up to date on alerts and who to contact when
by going to our website www.thearcmd.org.
The Arc Maryland is your voice in Annapolis on the ground every day during the Legislative Session.
We advocate for the vital interests of our constituency, including the state budget, wages, children
and family rights in the education system, employment, state legislation to make the ABLE Act a
reality for Marylanders, and state legislation to ensure those in the highest priority on the DDA
Waiting list get help. You can count on us, and we hope we can count on you to support our efforts
with your contributions.
The Arc Maryland may not use government funds for our public policy and legislative advocacy. We
count on your to contribute financially to keep The Arc’s presence strong at the State Legislature and
with the Administration. This is the one time each year that we approach our members for financial
support for our statewide public policy and advocacy efforts. Our 2016 Member Donor Drive Campaign
is $25,000!
For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities