Public Policy

State Legislation

The Arc of Tennessee tracks pertinent legislation on our Legislative Monitor page here.

Federal Legislation

S.2781, Rosa's Law introduced by U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski is a bill to change references in Federal law to mental retardation to references to an intellectual disability, and to change references to a mentally retarded individual to references to an individual with an intellectual disability. In a recent press release she said, "This bill is driven by a passion for social justice and a compassion for the human condition. We’ve done a lot to come out of the dark ages of institutionalization and exclusion when it comes to people with intellectual disabilities. I urge my colleagues to join me in a step further. Help sponsor the legislation that I offer on a bipartisan basis. Help me pass the law and know that each and every one of us makes a difference. When we work together, we can make change.” Rosa's Law is being tracked here.

S.2860 Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion in Schools Act introduced by Senator Christopher Dodd is a bill to protect students from inappropriate seclusion and physical restraint, and for other purposes. It is being tracked here.

The Arc of Tennessee and Local Chapters of The Arc Need YOU!

The Arc of Tennessee and Local Chapters of The Arc are initiating a “grass roots legislative mobilization” project and we need YOUR participation.  Without your voice, The Arc cannot succeed in improving the supports and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in Tennessee. If you would like to participate, download and complete the form here.