News & Updates
Stay informed and connected with FDDC news and other updates from across the state that impact those with developmental disabilities.
Autism Acceptance Month: A Message From Susan Kabot, Chief of Programs and Research
Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month April is Autism Acceptance Month, a designation that dates back to the 1970s, when it began as Autism Awareness Month. The shift to “Acceptance” in 2021 reflects something meaningful: acceptance promotes real inclusion in education, community involvement, and employment. This April, I had the chance to see that inclusion in action
FDDC’s 2026 Legislative Briefing 3-30-26
FDDC’s 2026 Legislative Briefing 3-30-26 Click here to read Click here to subscribe In this newsletter is a list of bills that the Council recommended to the 2026 Legislature during its regular session which ended on March 13. These bills will eventually be presented to the Governor. For each bill, he will have the option
FDDC Connections: March 2026
Check out the March edition of FDDC “Connections!” Click here to read Click here to subscribe Highlights & Celebrations Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: FDDC emphasized that awareness is just the beginning, focusing on creating opportunities, removing barriers, and promoting respect and inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities across Florida. World Down Syndrome Day: Celebrated on
FDDC’s 2026 Legislative Briefing 3-16-26: Week 9 of Session
Week 9 – 3/16/26: Florida Legislature 2026 Session Update: Legislature Ends Session Without Passing a Budget Click here to read Click here to subscribe The Florida Legislature wrapped up its regular session on Friday, March 13, without completing several key items. Most notably, lawmakers failed to pass a state budget, which is the only bill
FDDC’s 2026 Legislative Briefing 3-9-26: Week 8 of Session
Week 8 – 3/9/26: Florida Legislature 2026 Session Update: Budget Stalled but Priority Legislation Passes Click here to read Click here to subscribe Week 8 came to an end on Friday, March 6. High-level negotiations to establish allocations for the various areas of the budget (e.g. education, health and human services, public safety, etc.) continue
FDDC’s 2026 Legislative Briefing 3-2-26: Week 7 of Session
Week 7 – 3/2/26: Florida Legislature 2026 Session Update: Budget and Key Bills Take Shape Click here to read Click here to subscribe Friday, February 27, 2026, day 48 of the 60-day legislative session. Attention should be shifting to budget negotiations, but high-level negotiations to establish allocations for the various areas of the budget (e.g.,