In a significant moment for disability rights, Governor Katie Hobbs has inked a piece of legislation that comes as a bit of good news for Arizonans with disabilities, effectively safeguarding services critical to their well-being. The bill, which champions bipartisan efforts, will secure funding for supports catering to individuals with developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism, and cerebral palsy. The ceremony hosted an impressive mix of guests including advocates, family members, and a handful of representatives from both sides of the aisle.
The successful passing of this bill marks the end of a series of delays that put these essential services at risk, with Governor Hobbs pointing out that, despite the threats to an already vulnerable population, members of the disability community stood fast. As reported by the Office of the Arizona Governor, "After months of delays, these critical services were in danger and these Arizonans were at risk of losing access to their daily care."
This legislative victory is not just being hailed as a win for politicians but as a triumph for those who will feel its impact most tangibly. Representative Nancy Gutierrez (D-LD18) shared her enthusiasm with the Governor's Office, noting that her prior experience as a teacher of special needs students made her determined to champion the bill. "When Governor Hobbs first asked me to run the bill for the clean supplemental, I was thrilled to do it because as a teacher, I felt like I was fighting for my special needs students," Gutierrez remarked, as noted by the Office of the Arizona Governor. On the other side of the aisle, Representative Julie Willoughby (R-LD13) echoed a similar sentiment, "I'm thrilled that our caucuses were able to come together."
The perseverance of individuals like Brandi Coon, a parent, caregiver, and stalwart advocate, had an indelible impact on the bill's success. She told the Governor's Office, "We organized, we built bridges, we proposed legislation, we walked the Capitol halls, we didn’t let up and until every voice was heard. And it worked…This isn’t just a win. It’s a revolution built on truth, love, and determination." The passage of this legislation underscores the power of relentless advocacy and the role of the collective voice in shaping policy. Reiterating the life-changing nature of these services, Jason Snead, a DDD member and father, emphasized to the Governor's Office the importance of this bill, "I…receive direct support services from DDD, and they help me to be a better father, a better husband, and also maintain a full time job so I can provide for my family. These services in this bill allow that to continue."
