Advocate With Us
Change doesn’t happen on its own—it happens when people speak up, show up, and take action together.
At The Arc of Virginia, advocacy is at the heart of what we do. Our Action Center is your go-to space for learning about key issues, tracking legislation, and finding simple ways to make your voice heard—whether you're a self-advocate, family member, provider, or ally.
2026 General
Assembly Session
What is General Assembly?
The Virginia General Assembly is where state lawmakers decide laws and budgets that affect people with developmental disabilities and their families.
During the session, The Arc of Virginia helps people get involved by organizing the DD Rally, regional Advocacy Days, public testimony, and action alerts to contact legislators.

Together, this makes sure the voices of people with disabilities and their families are heard when decisions are being made.
2026 Legislative agenda
What are we advocating for?
Access to Services
- Increase Rates for Essential Nursing and Direct Supports
- Align Supported Living Rate to 4-person Group Home rate
- Fund the Community Collaborative Provider Incubator
- Increase funding for the State Rental Assistance Program*
- Study the Feasibiity of Core Services Waiver
- Maintain Live-In Caregiver Exemption from EVV*
- Expand Access to Medicaid Works
- Continue SSDI Disregard Policy*
Disability Rights and Justice Issues
- Protect Voting Rights
- Early Diversion*
- Provide an Affirmative Defense*
Items with an * are policy items that are shared or co-led with one of the following organizations: Virginia Housing Alliance, Autism Society of Central Virginia, or Decriminalizing Developmental Disabilities.
We track bills that impact people with developmental disabilities and their families throughout the General Assembly session.
Visit our Bill Tracker to see the legislation we are following and our positions as they are developed.
How to Take Action
1
DD Advocacy Rally
WHEN: January 22nd at 11:30 am
WHERE: Capitol Bell Tower
2
DD Advocacy Days
WHEN: Five Days set by Regions
WHERE: General Assembly Building
Developmental Disabilities Advocacy Rally
January 22, 11:30 a.m. | Capitol Bell Tower
This year’s rally is about showing up together at a time when major budget decisions will shape funding for critical services.
The rally is about showing the size and strength of Virginia’s disability community. When hundreds of people gather at the Bell Tower, it sends a clear message that these decisions affect real people across the Commonwealth.
What to expect:
- Wear an Orange Scarf or shirt if you have one
- Carry a Poster Sign -- NO sticks or anything affixed to it
- For safety, no bells, whistles, or weapons,
- Paid parking for Capitol Square visitors is available in the 9th and Franklin Street Parking Deck.
- Parking rates are $5/hour or $20/day.
- Accessible vehicles and buses can drop off on 9th st at Bell Tower.
Rally Partners
DD Advocacy Days
The Arc of Virginia is so excited to invite you to our DD Days for the 2026 General Assembly! These are days when each region's chapters, self-advocates, families, and allies come to the Virginia State Capitol and share their experiences with lawmakers. Please take a moment to review the map and find your region. You will sign up for the date that goes with your region. For example: If you live in Augusta, you will sign up for the Blue Ridge DD Day on January 29th. If you need any help figuring out your region or signing up, email lgerken@thearcofva.org.
K/now is The Arc of Virginia’s digital newsletter—your quick, trusted source for advocacy alerts, policy updates, and action opportunities. Know what’s happening now so you can help shape what happens next.

