Public Policy Updates~ Links and Blogs
New Website Examines Washington State
Public Policy, Political News and Events
Washbucket
Fuse Washington
Office of the Education Ombudsman
2009 Recommendations for Improving K-12 Public Education
focus on Special Education
(report in pdf)
Looking forward -
Possible contenders in the 2010 Legislative Session:
Classroom Access Bill Gains Support:
20 individuals, parents, organizations in 8 counties have sent their letters of support for this proposed legislation that would give reasonable access to the classroom, for parents of children receiving special ed services, and their representatives/consultants. In addition it is supported by a recent US District court decision and similar laws that have been passed in Massachusetts, Illinois and Pennsylvania. The education lobby is opposed to it, led the special ed coalition, but supporters include the Developmental Disabilities Council and the Arc of Washington State and the Community Advocacy Coalition.
Rep. Brendan Williams is the prime sponsor. This bill was started by a mom in Mason county-send an email to Sarah (or cut/paste mom2braxton@hotmail.com) if you have questions or want to send your own letter of support.
Link to Sarah's web page about the classroom access bill.
Link to Sarah's blog about the bill.
Age of Consent-Stakeholders Group:
Rep. Dickerson prime sponsored a House bill on Age of Consent, that failed to pass in the 2008 legislative session due to appropriations issues. Since then, a grassroots group of stakeholders has come together to work on a legislative solution for the 2010 legislative session. In addition to working on a balance of rights and responsibilities for youth and parents, some are interested and have begun exploring a solution within medical necessity statute. If you have questions or want to be involved, please send an email to Sherri (or cut/paste fofsherri@yahoo.com).
WSIPP (WA State Institute for Public Policy)
Link to Report on Children and Adults with Developmental Disabilities: Services in Washington, Research Evidence
State Info for 2009 Legislative Session:
WADad's Legislative Action Center
Share your views on public mental health system, parenting challenges and successes with other parents and professionals:
UW Public Behavioral Health and Justice Policy Blog
From Georgetown University Center for Children and Families:
A Children's Health Policy Blog
This blog/site is connected to the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and is a great resource:
Justice for All Blog
WA State Legislative Homepage
US House of Representatives
US Senate
The White House
Congressional Budget Office