Public Policy
Public Policy History
When The Arc US and the Arc of New Mexico were founded in the 1950s, the public policy in the United States focused almost exclusively on “warehousing” people with disabilities – putting them in institutions on the edges of communities, never to be seen again. People with disabilities and their families had no independence and autonomy over their lives. Fortunately, we have come a long way since then in terms of disability rights and innovative supports.
Public Policy:
The Arc of the United States began when a small group of parents and others who were concerned about the treatment of people with disabilities all came together to create change. Its history is robust, and today, the Arc of the US has become the largest, national, community-based organization advocating for and serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families.
The Arc of New Mexico was founded in 1955. Since then, it has been a strong and active participant in every major, advocacy effort in New Mexico, working for and in partnership with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Legislative Efforts:
The Arc of New Mexico monitors national, state, and local legislation and regulations that impact individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Additionally, the Arc of New Mexico has a full-time lobbyist at the State Capitol in Santa Fe during legislative sessions, as well as throughout the year attending interim committee sessions. The lobbyist makes public comments and encourages public participation to influence pending legislation and to suggest new legislation.
The Arc of New Mexico has a longstanding reputation at both the state and national level for championing important legislation that impacts people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We recognize that change must happen systematically in order to impact individual lives for the better. We work during the legislative session, and outside of session to influence public policy to better the lives of the individuals we serve.
Legislative Priorities
By Year
Key Policy Topics and Actions
The Arc of New Mexico’s Leadership Team works collaboratively with others around the state, and stays involved in a variety of advisory committees and coalitions which impact change and progress for people with intellectual disabilities and their families. The Arc of New Mexico sponsors events and participates in conferences which encourage public advocacy and actions for self-advocates, family members, and interested parties.
Interested in getting involved in the legislative process? Check out this guide on How To Get Involved in the Legislative Process!
Position statements are used to inform The Arc of New Mexico’s public policy agenda, as well as to set its agenda for each year’s legislative session.
Civil Rights
Disability rights are human rights. Everyone deserves to be included in society and to live a full life in their community – with access to the same public spaces, housing opportunities, education, work, and treatment as everyone else.
Direct Support Professionals
For years, our direct support workforce has been in crisis with an average annual turnover of almost 50%, resulting in a staggering vacancy rate. As such, the needs of people with disabilities, their families, and the support workers themselves are not being properly met.
Medicaid
Medicaid makes life in the community possible and is the primary source of health care and community-based supports for many people with I/DD.
Employment, Training, and Wages
Competitive, integrated employment is a key part of living a meaningful, independent, and inclusive life in the community for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
The Arc of New Mexico promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
