Shannon Lavigne, Legislative Liaison, along with other Regional leads collaborate with legislators, self-advocates, and family advocates to advance policies to improve their daily lives.

2026 Legislative Priorities

Ombudsman Bill A4765/S4871

The Ombudsman bill would strengthen oversight and accountability within disability services. NYADD is advocating for this bill to include a yearly public report, a practice already in place in states such as New Jersey, to ensure transparency and measurable outcomes that support individuals and families.

Blue Ribbon Commission Bill A6021/S4841

The Blue Ribbon Commission bill creates a statewide commission to evaluate the future
of New York’s services and delivery systems for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. NYADD supports this bill and successfully advocated for the inclusion of self-advocates and family caregivers, including those representing
individuals who cannot speak for themselves, to ensure meaningful representation in planning and reform efforts.

SEPAC Bill A8633/S7826

The SEPAC bill requires every school district in New York State to establish Special Education Parent Advisory Councils. These councils create a formal partnership between families and school districts to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. The councils ensure that families and the dedicated special education staff who support them have a seat at the table in decision-making. They provide training, resources, and a platform for collaboration. Many states, including Massachusetts, have long required SEPACs, and this bill is modeled after those successful systems. NYADD supports this legislation because it ensures transparency, improves communication, and elevates the voices of those most directly impacted by special education policies.

Electronic Monitoring Bill A1967A/S7190 

Another important issue is the safety of Loved Ones with IDD who need to enter a nursing home or an assisted Living facility. NYADD strongly supports Assemblywoman Amy Paulin’s bill A1967 to Protect Individuals with Developmental Disabilities in Long-Term Care. The bill would allow electronic monitoring in assisted living and nursing home facilities. This bill allows residents or the NYADD-VOCATE families to install electronic monitoring devices in
bedroom area. Many individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities transition into these settings as their medical needs become more complex and can no longer be managed in community placements or at home. These individuals are uniquely vulnerable,
often unable to communicate when neglect or mistreatment occurs, leaving families desperate for safeguards that ensure their loved ones receive appropriate and respectful care. This legislation provides peace of mind and protection for vulnerable individuals and their families by ensuring safety and accountability in care environments.