A service animal walks into a bar…

A service animal walks into a bar…accompanied by an individual with a disability. The manager says the bar does not allow pets. After explaining the animal is a service animal, the manager asks to see documentation proving that the animal is a service animal. There are many misconceptions regarding service animals and emotional support/therapy animals. […]

Parents: a child’s first and best advocate, at any age

On January 26, 1992 I started a journey of unknown distance. I didn’t have a map, a flashlight, or a compass. What I did have was an unrelenting commitment to make it to the finish line and learn all I could along the way. I wanted to see everything I could. I wanted to savor […]

Important SSI information for transition-aged (14-17) youth

This week, Social Security has mailed a notice to more than 347,625 Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients (transition-aged youth) between the ages of 14 and 17 and their adult representatives to help them identify policies and other resources to assist youth in their transition to adulthood. These mailings include a letter introducing an annual informational […]

DHS: An insider’s guide

The Arkansas Department of Human Services is often unfairly depicted as a faceless bureaucracy. It is the largest entity within our state government, with a small army of employees at its disposal. DHS employs roughly 7,400 people across nine divisions and six public offices. Navigating this massive system can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have […]

DRA files lawsuit against Division of Services for the Blind

UPDATE August 9, 2019: We appreciate the Division’s expeditious response to this individual’s complaint. We truly hope that they look at the systemic issues that caused it. We will continue to monitor the services provided by DSB to ensure that all clients are receiving services as identified in their plans. August 7, 2019 Disability Rights […]