Disability advocacy has always meant speaking up. This is even more important when things feel scary or uncertain. That’s happening now with Texas v. Kennedy. It is a lawsuit filed by some states that threatens the right of people with disabilities to live on their own. The case started with 17 states. Today, it is down to just 9, after Indiana and South Dakota dropped out. That matters. It shows that advocacy, education, and pressure work.
Section 504, Olmstead, and Why They Matter
Section 504 is part of the Americans with Disabilities Act. It says states must provide services in the least restrictive environment (LRE). LRE means people should live, learn, and get support where they have the most freedom and choice. For adults with disabilities, that means real community living. For students, it means inclusive schools. The Supreme Court agreed when it decided the Olmstead case. They said that people had a right to get services where they choose, not the state.
Texas v. Kennedy wants to change that. If the states win, these protections could be lost. It would be easier to push people into institutions. It would take away choice, control, and dignity.
This Lawsuit Makes No Sense for States
We have learned that community-based services are the best choice. They cost less than in institutions. They also work better. Here are some examples:
- Care in institutions costs a lot. It costs about three times more than in the community settings.
- People who live in the community are healthier. This means fewer hospital visits. That also saves money.
- People who live in the community are more likely to work. When people work, they earn money. That money goes back into their community.
Fighting Section 504 does not help states. It wastes money. It also harms people in the process.
Disability Advocacy Works
Advocacy starts when people use their voices. And it works! Since the lawsuit was filed in 2024, eight states have dropped out. With many more people standing up, we can beat the nine that are left. We can protect community living.
Here are some ways you can help:
- Join your statewide or local self-advocacy group.
- Get involved with your local chapter of The Arc.
- Build your advocacy skills so you can speak up with confidence.
Every action makes a difference.
Learn More—Do More!
Ready to take the next step?
- Find your local chapter of the Arc.
- Watch our Disability Rights playlist on YouTube.
- Explore our Independent Living resource hub. It has free information and tools you can use.
Our rights are precious, and we must defend them. Disability Advocacy works. Let’s stand together!