Policy Change: Stay Informed, Take Action.
Laws and policies shape access to speech therapy, education, and support for people with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). Staying informed helps us push for better services, secure funding, and hold leaders accountable. When we track policies, we can take action, contact legislators, and make real change happen.
National Advocacy:
CALL TO ACTION: CALL, WRITE, & MAIL YOUR STATE ATTORNEYS GENERAL.
The three proposed bills—H.R. 899, H.R. 938, and the Returning Education to Our States Act—all seek to abolish the U.S. Department of Education, shifting control to states and local authorities. This would eliminate federal oversight, funding distribution, and enforcement of education laws. The biggest risks include weakened protections for special education and homeless youth, as programs like IDEA and McKinney-Vento rely on federal enforcement to ensure equal access. Without centralized funding and accountability, states may struggle to provide consistent support, leading to disparities in education quality and services for vulnerable students.
CALL TO ACTION: CALL, WRITE, & MAIL YOUR STATE ATTORNEYS GENERAL.
Seventeen states are suing to challenge Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, using gender dysphoria as a legal argument. In pages 37-42 of the lawsuit, they attempt to label Section 504 as unconstitutional and argue that it should not be enforced. This could set a dangerous precedent, weakening protections for disabled individuals, including those with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). The court date is set for February 25, 2025.
Alabama:
Alabama House Bill 197 (HB197) conflicts with federal rights and procedures under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) by imposing additional steps before a due process hearing. IDEA guarantees parents the right to request a hearing without unnecessary delays, and HB197 could create barriers that violate these federal protections. By making it harder for families to access due process, the bill undermines the rights of children with disabilities to receive the services and support they are entitled to under federal law.
Indiana:
Indiana HB 1136 (2025) poses risks, including loss of local control, as it replaces elected school boards with a state-appointed governing board, removing community input. Forcing all district schools to become charter schools raises concerns about quality and oversight, as some charters may prioritize profit over student outcomes. Prioritizing the lowest-performing schools for charter conversion could lead to closures, layoffs, and student disruptions, especially for special education. Unclear accountability measures further risk inconsistent education quality.
Fund Policy Change Efforts
Every dollar supports direct action, legislative outreach, and policy change efforts that our advocates do for free. While we are happy to do this for free, donations help us dedicate more time to advocacy during hours we would be working to pay our bills. Any donation is appreciated.