Legislative session wrap-up, and what’s ahead in the fight for civil rights

The 93rd Arkansas General Assembly recently finished its work for the 2021 regular session. For people with disabilities, there was some good news, but most civil rights advocates agree that overall, this legislative session was a giant step backward for the civil and human rights of Arkansans. A group of advocates have now come together […]

Help DRA set our priorities for 2022!

It’s that time of year again! As the designated Protection and Advocacy System and Client Assistance Program for the State of Arkansas, Disability Rights Arkansas, Inc. (DRA) works to protect the civil rights of persons with disabilities statewide. Every year, we solicit public input from people with disabilities, their family and friends, service providers, and […]

New PASSE contract; PASSE performance metrics released

Below are recently released documents related to PASSE: New PASSE contract, effective January of this year; and PASSE Performance Metrics Empower Arkansas Total Care Summit If you have questions about the PASSE or need further information, give DRA a call at (800) 482-1174.

An Open Letter to the Arkansas Legislature

Dear Legislators,  We the undersigned urge the Arkansas Legislature to address the needs of all Arkansans with disabilities during the remainder of the session.  We want Arkansas to be a place where all individuals are welcome and can receive supports and services. We want to make the Natural State a welcoming place to live.  Specifically, […]

Restraint and seclusion examined this week on KABF “Speak Up Arkansas”

When students pose a threat to themselves or others, educators sometimes need to restrain them or remove them to a separate space. That’s supposed to be a last resort, and it’s a controversial practice. There are guidelines around restraint and seclusion in schools, there are no federal laws governing how they can be used, and […]