2025 Advocacy Days Are Here!
The 2025 Legislative Session begins on January 13th, presenting us with challenges as the legislature anticipates a $10-12 billion shortfall over the next four years. This means significant cuts, increased revenues, or a combination of both may be necessary. What does this mean for developmental disability services?
We need to advocate for the protection of our essential services!
What Can You Do?
Join us for Advocacy Days!
Register here to learn more about the issues at hand and how you can help. Advocacy Days will take place weekly on Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM.
Kick-off Event: January 15th
Join us at United Churches in Olympia for our LIVE kick-off event. The morning program will be live-streamed, and the afternoon will allow you to schedule appointments with your legislators.
Following the kick-off, the rest of the Advocacy Days will be virtual, making it easier for individuals across the state to participate. We are also coordinating with several organizations that will host live rallies in conjunction with our virtual events. Stay tuned for more details!
To view the 2025 Advocacy Days Schedule Visit and Register: https://arcwa.org/advocacy/advocacy-days/
Connect with your Legislator!
Many new legislators may be unfamiliar with developmental disability (DD) issues, so now is the time to educate them. Your long-standing legislators also need to hear that DD services must be a priority. Share how important these services are and urge them to protect DD services.
Find your legislator’s contact information here: Legislator Finder. For information on new legislators, visit our candidate site: 2024 Elections.
DD Legislative Notebook:
For issue papers and information, check out our DD Legislative Notebook: 2025 Legislative Notebook – The Arc Washington.
Sign up for our Action Network here: Action Network Sign-Up. The Arc of Washington Action Network keeps you informed about important legislative budgets and policy issues that require immediate attention, connecting you directly to your legislators.
You can also subscribe to “News to Know” to receive updates on critical issues affecting individuals with I/DD and their families. Subscribe here: https://arcwa.org/news-to-know-sign-up/
Town Hall: “Medicaid Matters”
Medicaid is more than healthcare, it funds all Home & Community Based Services for people with I/DD. The Arc of Washington State hosted a virtual town hall to discuss more about why it matters, potential service threats, and how you can be involved. Watch the recording here.
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make a difference!
Cathy Murahashi, Public Policy Specialist, The Arc of Washington
Advocacy Days, part of The Arc’s Advocacy Partnership Project, provide individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD), their families, and service providers the opportunity to engage in the legislative process, make their voices heard, and influence policy and budget decisions that impact the services and support they receive.
