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Understanding the 2026 Changes for Federal Contractors: Regulatory Updates to Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act
Posted by Disability Belongs
This update outlines recent regulatory changes to Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act that took effect on September 21, 2026. It provides essential information for federal contractors regarding new requirements for measuring disability employment.
Understanding the 2026 Changes for Federal Contractors: Regulatory Updates to Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act
Posted by Disability Belongs®
New regulatory updates to Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act took effect in September 2026, impacting how disability employment is measured. These changes are designed to improve transparency and accountability for federal contractors regarding their disability hiring practices.
Disability and Health National Programs
Posted by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The CDC funds national programs through the National Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability and the Special Olympics to improve health outcomes. These initiatives provide resources for physical activity, nutrition, and inclusive health screenings for people with disabilities.
Special Education Webinars and Newsletters
Posted by Texas Education Agency
The Texas Education Agency hosts regular webinars and distributes monthly newsletters to keep families and educators informed about special education policies. These resources provide the most current information regarding program initiatives and state-level updates.
Special Education Guidance and Resources
Posted by Texas Education Agency
The Texas Education Agency provides comprehensive guidance for public schools on implementing effective special education programs. Resources include information on the Intensity of Services funding model and the Texas Early Childhood Inclusion Plan to support students with disabilities.
DOL Rescinds 503 Disability Hiring Mandate
Posted by National Organization on Disability
The U.S. Department of Labor has announced the rescission of a federal rule regarding disability hiring mandates for federal contractors. The National Organization on Disability provides ongoing updates on how this change impacts employer obligations under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Disability Programs — Goodwill of Southern Nevada
Posted by Goodwill of Southern Nevada
Goodwill of Southern Nevada offers five specialized programs for individuals with disabilities, including Community Based Training and pre-vocational skill development. These programs partner with local vocational rehabilitation and school districts to foster inclusive employment.
Governor Newsom proclaims Disability Employment Awareness Month
Posted by Governor of California
Governor Newsom issued a proclamation for October 2025, highlighting California's commitment to competitive, integrated employment for the 7 million adults with disabilities in the state. The proclamation emphasizes new state laws aimed at ending subminimum wages and improving hiring practices for state agencies.
2024 End of Session Wrap Up
Posted by Disability Rights California
Disability Rights California provides a comprehensive summary of legislative outcomes from 2024, including the passage of SB 445 which mandates the translation of standardized IEP templates. The report also highlights budget changes that repeal family cost participation fees for respite and daycare services.
SPECIAL EDUCATION PROCESS HANDBOOK (2024-25)
Posted by Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE)
This handbook provides comprehensive guidance for administrators and staff on implementing IDEA and local special education regulations. It includes updated information on parent participation, dyslexia screenings, and eligibility criteria for Extended School Year services.
Southern California Wildfire Resources
Posted by Disability Rights California
Disability Rights California has compiled a comprehensive guide of resources specifically for people with disabilities affected by recent wildfires and windstorms. The information is provided by the organization's Disaster Resilience Program to ensure safety and support.
HUD Emotional Support Animal Policy Change Raises Housing Access Concerns
Posted by Disability Rights Florida
Disability Rights Florida is monitoring a recent policy change from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development regarding emotional support animals. The organization is evaluating how these updates may impact housing access for Floridians with disabilities.
Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) - Small Business Hub
Posted by Disability Small Business
This initiative provides technical assistance and resources to help entrepreneurs with disabilities pursue self-employment. It focuses on strengthening state vocational rehabilitation services and creating inclusive business opportunities.
American Dream Employment Network 2024 Annual Report
Posted by National Disability Institute
The American Dream Employment Network (ADEN) assisted 776 adults with disabilities in achieving or retaining employment during 2024. As an authorized Social Security Ticket to Work provider, they offer specialized vocational support and career development services.
Disability Rights California’s Summary of The Final 2024-25 Budget
Posted by Disability Rights California
Disability Rights California provides a comprehensive breakdown of the 2024-25 state budget, highlighting the codification of the Master Plan for Developmental Services. The summary covers impacts on key areas including In-Home Supportive Services, mental health, and housing.
In this newsletter: the latest news about disability advocacy in Washington State
Posted by The Arc Washington
The Arc Washington reports on new state directives aimed at expanding dental service access for individuals with developmental disabilities. The Governor has tasked state health agencies with developing sustainable, community-based solutions to address long-standing barriers to care.
Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2024
Posted by Disability Belongs
Disability Belongs highlights the 2024 NDEAM theme 'Access to Good Jobs for All' to combat stigma in the workplace. The organization provides resources and event information to promote inclusive employment practices.
Statewide Individualized Education Program
Posted by Virginia Legislative Information System
This resource explains the purpose of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) for students with disabilities in Virginia. It outlines how schools provide specially designed instruction and accommodations to meet unique learning needs.
DRLA Programs
Posted by Disability Rights Louisiana
Disability Rights Louisiana offers the CAP program to assist individuals with disabilities in obtaining necessary training and equipment for employment. The organization also provides advocacy services for those navigating state support systems.
Budget delivers for people with disability
Posted by NDIS
The Australian Government has committed an additional $227.6 million to boost disability employment and NDIS outcomes. This funding supports a new specialised disability employment program scheduled to commence on 1 July 2025.
Priorities: Employment and Education Advocacy
Posted by Disability Rights California
Disability Rights California provides ongoing advocacy services to help individuals overcome barriers to competitive integrated employment. They also offer support for students with disabilities to ensure equal educational opportunities and access to necessary school accommodations.
Disability Rights California’s Summary of the Final 2026-27 Budget
Posted by Disability Rights California
The 2026-27 California budget includes a significant $2.4 billion annual investment in special education programs, representing a 43% increase. The budget also allocates $30 million to expand general education access for students with disabilities and increases funding for the Equal Access Fund.
Employment First Initiative
Posted by District of Columbia Department on Disability Services
The District of Columbia Department on Disability Services promotes the Employment First philosophy, which prioritizes competitive, integrated employment for youth and adults with disabilities. The agency supports this through ongoing training sessions and agency-wide initiatives.
Policy and Procedures for Implementing Reasonable Accommodations in New York State Agencies
Posted by New York State Office of Employee Relations
This document outlines the official policy for New York State agencies regarding reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. It includes guidance on the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and procedures for ensuring equitable access in the workplace.
Policy Change: Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act
Posted by Disability Belongs
The Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs published a final rule updating regulations for Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. These changes, which took effect in September 2026, impact how disability employment is measured and implemented.
People with a Disability: Labor Force Characteristics Summary
Posted by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics released updated 2025 data regarding the labor force participation of people with disabilities. The report highlights the correlation between educational attainment and employment rates for this demographic.
Assistive Technology Devices and Services for Children
Posted by U.S. Department of Education
This policy guidance clarifies that IEPs for children with disabilities must be aligned with state academic content standards. It includes a list of resources to ensure highly mobile children receive required special education and related services.
Functional Behavioral Assessments Guidance
Posted by U.S. Department of Education
The U.S. Department of Education released updated policy guidance in November 2024 regarding the use of Functional Behavioral Assessments for students with disabilities. This resource provides critical information for educators and families on implementing behavioral supports within the IEP process.
2024 Recruiting and Retaining Special Education Teachers
Posted by Virginia Legislative Information System
This report details Virginia's efforts to support special education through teacher residency programs, registered apprenticeships, and professional development initiatives. It highlights the expansion of the JITA program and the provision of resources for first- and second-year special education teachers.
Disability Resources: Empowering Inclusive & Independent Living
Posted by Disability Resources
A centralized hub providing information on disability benefits, healthcare access, and vocational services. The site offers guidance on navigating SSDI/SSI applications and understanding specific disabling conditions.
New Jersey Guide to Accessible Parking and Resources
Posted by New Jersey Department of Human Services
The New Jersey Division of Disability Services has published a comprehensive guide detailing state-offered programs for residents, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities. The resource covers topics ranging from personal assistance services to traumatic brain injury support.
Trends in Disability Employment: October 2024
Posted by U.S. Department of Labor
This report provides an analysis of quarterly employment rates for working-age people with disabilities from 2009 through 2024. It highlights ongoing challenges such as the need for workplace accommodations and education to close the employment gap.
Special Education Parent Information Centers program
Posted by U.S. Department of Education
The U.S. Department of Education provides information on the Special Education Parent Information Centers program, which ensures parents of children with disabilities receive high-quality training. This resource helps parents navigate special education systems to improve outcomes for their children.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month, 2024
Posted by Federal Register
President Biden proclaimed October 2024 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, emphasizing the administration's commitment to accessible federal workplaces. The proclamation highlights the end of subminimum wages in federal contracts and ongoing efforts to ensure dignity and rights for disabled Americans.
Lessons from IncludeAbility: Disability Employment 2024
Posted by Australian Human Rights Commission
This resource hub provides evaluation findings and lessons learned from the IncludeAbility project. It offers insights into co-designing inclusive workplaces and supporting talent through pilot employment programs.
Department of Labor announces ‘Access to Good Jobs for All’ as National Disability Employment Awareness Month’s 2024 theme
Posted by U.S. Department of Labor
The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy has designated 'Access to Good Jobs for All' as the official theme for October 2024. This initiative focuses on expanding both the quantity and quality of employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2024
Posted by Disability Belongs
Disability Belongs highlights the 2024 NDEAM theme, 'Access to Good Jobs for All,' emphasizing the importance of inclusive workplaces. The organization advocates for removing bias and stigma to ensure disabled people are fully integrated into the workforce.
50th Anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Education Summit
Posted by Disability Rights California
Disability Rights California and the Disability Rights and Education Defense Fund hosted a panel of experts to reflect on the history of education for students with disabilities. The summit focused on building a more inclusive educational future for students across the disability community.
New USAID Disability Policy 2024
Posted by ECDAN
USAID has released its updated 'Nothing Without Us' disability policy, which serves as a comprehensive update to its 1997 framework. The policy reinforces the organization's commitment to disability-inclusive development and the rights of persons with disabilities globally.
Students with Disability: Resources
Posted by VIC.GOV.AU
The Victorian Government provides updated operational guidelines and resources for inclusive education. This includes information on the transition from the Program for Students with Disability to the new Disability Inclusion funding model.
IWD and DOL Virtual Event: Compliance and Disability Employment
Posted by Iowa Workforce Development
Iowa Workforce Development and the U.S. Department of Labor are hosting a virtual event to discuss disability employment compliance and best practices. The session aims to help employers navigate recruitment and outreach strategies during National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
Webinar: Understanding Clinical Research for the Down Syndrome Community
Posted by National Task Group (NTG)
This free webinar, hosted by the National Task Group (NTG), explores how individuals with Down syndrome and their families can participate in clinical research. The session covers how to find research opportunities and make informed decisions about involvement.
Texas HireAbility Employer Forum and Lex Frieden Employment Awards
Posted by Texas Workforce Commission
Scheduled for October 21, 2026, this event in McKinney, Texas, brings together employers and advocates to discuss strategies for inclusive workplaces. The forum highlights resources for hiring, retaining, and accommodating employees with disabilities.
The New Home Modification Information Network
Posted by Administration for Community Living (ACL)
This newly updated, free online resource supported by the ACL provides centralized information on home modifications. It is designed to help individuals, caregivers, and professionals find services and resources to keep homes safe and accessible.
Governor Proclaims Disability Employment Awareness Month 2024
Posted by NC Governor
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper issued a proclamation for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, highlighting the theme 'Access to Good Jobs for All.' The proclamation emphasizes state efforts to expand inclusive postsecondary education and workforce preparation programs.
Disability Owned Convening 2026
Posted by National Disability Institute
This fully virtual national event for entrepreneurs with disabilities focuses on navigating the business landscape, leveraging AI, and achieving financial health. Attendees gain access to expert panels and resources designed to help disability-owned small businesses thrive.
Special Education Rule Amendments for 2026-2027
Posted by Texas Education Agency
The Texas Education Agency has implemented new rule amendments for the 2026-2027 school year regarding IEP documentation, eligibility criteria, and ARD committee membership. These updates are intended to streamline procedures and ensure compliance with state requirements.
Working While Disabled: How We Can Help
Posted by USA.gov
This resource guide provides comprehensive information for people with disabilities who are currently receiving benefits and wish to pursue employment. It covers programs like Ticket to Work, vocational rehabilitation, and resources for finding inclusive job opportunities.
US Department of Labor updates online financial literacy toolkit
Posted by U.S. Department of Labor
The U.S. Department of Labor has updated its online financial education toolkit to better support disabled workers, their families, and caregivers. The resource provides practical guidance to help individuals build economic mobility and independence.
Office of Disability Employment Policy Resources
Posted by U.S. Department of Labor
The U.S. Department of Labor's ODEP provides access to various technical assistance centers, including the Job Accommodation Network and the Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology. These resources help job seekers and employers navigate workplace accommodations and inclusive hiring practices.
