The Arc of DC is currently supporting the implementation of a new local law to help people with disabilities live, work and play in the District of Columbia. The Disability Rights Protection Act of 2006 was drafted by members of the disability community to help people with disabilities live, work and play in the District of Columbia. Thanks to vigorous advocacy from across the city, the bill became law in March, 2007.

The new law seeks to create a more open, accessible city for residents with disabilities, by helping the District government comply with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act and related disability rights laws. The bill establishes an Office of Disability Rights to oversee a city-wide ADA plan. The new Office will also provide DC government agencies and members of the public with information and assistance to ensure that people with disabilities are able to access DC government facilities and services.

The Disability Rights Protection Act is being supported enthusiastically by a diverse group of nearly 70 organizations from across the District. Groups and individuals are urged to add their support by endorsing the bill.

For more information or to be added to the mailing list for updates on the new law, please contact T.J. Sutcliffe, Director of Advocacy & Public Policy, The Arc of DC (202-636-2963 / tjsutcliffe@arcdc.net) or Amber Harding, Staff Attorney, Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless (202-328-5503 / amber@legalclinic.org).