Rep. Dathan & IDD Caucus Host 11TH Family Day at State Capitol
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
REP. LUCY DATHAN & IDD CAUCUS HOST 11TH FAMILY DAY AT STATE CAPITOL
HARTFORD — State Rep. Lucy Dathan (D–Norwalk/New Canaan), State Rep. Jay Case (R–Colebrook/Torrington/Winchester), State Sen. Cathy Osten (D–Sprague), and State Sen. Jason Perillo (R–Shelton), along with The Arc of Connecticut, advocates, individuals with disabilities, and their families, friends, and supporters, hosted a press conference at the State Capitol. The event kicked off the 11th Annual Arc of Connecticut/IDD Caucus Family Hearing Day at the Legislative Office Building.
"IDD Family Day reminds us that every individual deserves to be recognized, uplifted, and supported. This event is not just a celebration of families and caregivers—it’s a call to action,” said Rep. Dathan. “Advocating for this community is one of my greatest passions, and I am honored to do this work. Now is the time to strengthen the foundation of a more inclusive world—one where people of all abilities have the opportunity to contribute, succeed and live with dignity. Together, we can ensure that everyone is respected, included, and given the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
Sen. Perillo said, “As co-chair of the IDD Caucus, I’m proud to stand with families, advocates, and providers at Advocacy Day. This event is a powerful reminder that behind every policy decision are real people who deserve dignity, opportunity, and the support they need to thrive. When we invest in the IDD community, we invest in stronger families, a more inclusive workforce, and a more compassionate Connecticut. I encourage everyone to join us, speak up, and help shape a future where every voice is heard and valued.”
The Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Caucus highlighted its top priorities, including ensuring adequate funding for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the providers who support them.
Following is the list of legislative priorities for this session:
- HB 5002: An Act Concerning Education Funding, Special Education And Early Childhood Programs
- SB 326: An Act Concerning Husky C Asset Limits
- SB 329: An Act Expanding Medicaid Eligibility For Older Adults With Disabilities
- SB 481: An Act Establishing Financial Safeguards For Private Equity Ownership Of Nursing Homes And Prohibiting Required Arbitration Agreements
- SB 482: An Act Concerning Legislative Oversight Of Medicaid Waivers, Medicaid State Plan Amendments And Other Federally Funded Programs
- SB 500: An Act Concerning A State-Funded Caregiver Program To Assist Parents Of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
- HB 5484: An Act Expanding Transportation Options For Home Care Clients.
- HB 5556: An Act Concerning Complex Care Service Delivery For Young Adults With Co-Occurring Mental Health And Intellectual Disability Or Autism Diagnoses
- HB 5557: An Act Concerning Eligibility Determinations By The Department Of Developmental Services
- HB 5558: An Act Concerning The Department Of Developmental Services' Abuse And Neglect Investigations
- HB 5485: An Act Concerning Supported Decision-Making
- HB 5421: An Act Establishing An Account To Provide Durable Medical Equipment To Health Care Facilities
Rep. Mike Demicco (D-Farmington) said, "Connecticut has the resources to strengthen services and protections for residents with disabilities — what’s needed now is the will to act. The question is, do we have the will to make things right by passing the caucus' priority bills? I believe we do."
“These priority bills reflect the comprehensive approach needed to address the unique needs of the IDD community. They are the result of the dedicated efforts of legislators, advocates, and professionals who serve this community every day. I am proud to work alongside colleagues who share the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive and live as independently as possible,” said Rep. Jillian Gilchrest (D-West Hartford).
This event brought together lawmakers, advocates, and families to share personal stories and emphasize the urgent need for continued investment in services that support individuals with IDD across the state.
The IDD Caucus is a bipartisan group of Connecticut legislators focused on improving services, funding, and policies for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They advocate for reducing waitlists, improving community-based housing, and supporting increased funding for non-profit providers.