On May 9, 2025, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) sent letters to the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee and the House Appropriations Committee expressing serious concerns about the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) proposed restructuring and Fiscal Year 2026 budget request.
The proposals could significantly impact disability-specific programs and protections by dismantling or dispersing key initiatives within the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and other offices. NDSS highlighted the risks of fragmentation and reduced accessibility for people with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome. The letter also flagged proposed funding cuts to vital programs such as the INCLUDE Project at the NIH, Developmental Disabilities Councils, University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs), Protection and Advocacy agencies, and Head Start.
NDSS urges Congress to preserve and adequately fund these programs to protect community living, integration, and equal opportunity for all individuals with disabilities.
Here are our full letters to the Senate HELP Committee and House Appropriations Committee.