HELPFUL LINKS
HELPFUL LINKS
Advocacy means speaking out about issues that you care about and offering your opinions and suggestions for improvement to the people who make decisions about change. An effective advocate communicates and negotiates with decision-makers about their interests, needs, and rights.
The DD Council network has the resources you need to be an effective advocate on the issues you care about. We will help you keep on top of the issues being discussed in the Iowa Legislature and in the U.S. Congress, learn more about the issues so you can be an informed and confident advocate, and find ways to become an effective advocate.
Learn More About Your Issue
Click here to review issues being discussed in our Bill Tracker.
Take Action and Advocate
Click here for the most recent update of our Guide to the Iowa Legislature to find out more about the process.
Click here for our Advocacy Toolkit.
Click here to use our Take Action Center to connect with your elected officials by email.
Click here to find a town hall meeting or public forum near you.
Keep up to Date and Track Progress
Click here to read our current issue of infoNET.
Click here to track the progress of bills that impact Iowans with disabilities.
Find Your Legislators
Find out who represents you in Iowa's State Capitol.
Find out more about your legislators and the legislative process in our most recently updated Guide to the Iowa Legislature.
Learn More About Your Legislators
Representative Profiles — Democrats and Republicans
Senator Profiles — Democrats and Republicans
Maps and District Information (current)
Contact Your Legislators
Use our Take Action Center to contact your legislators
Committee Listings (2023)
House and Senate Budget Subcommittees
Permanent Statutory Committees (meet year round)
Interim Committees (meet when legislators are not in session)
Other Information
Iowa Administrative Code (state agency rules)
Subscribe to Legislative Email Publications
Contact for Various Legislative Agencies
ADDITIONAL STATE RESOURCES
211Iowa
Information and referral program linking Iowans to general health and human service programs for the public.
Phone: 2-1-1
Text: 898211
http://211iowa.org/contact-us/
The Arc of Iowa
A statewide advocacy organization of parents and others representing people with intellectual and other disabilities. Chapters throughout Iowa offer a variety of services dedicated to advocating for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
114 South 11th Street
Des Moines, IA 50265
Phone: (515) 508-1214
ASK Resource Center
Parent training, information, and advocacy center for families of children with special needs across Iowa.
5665 Greendale Drive, Suite D
Johnston, IA 50131
Phone: (800) 450-8667 or (515) 243-1713
Email: info@askresource.org
Autism Society of Iowa
Advocacy, support, and information organization of individuals with autism spectrum disorders, their families, professionals, and communities throughout Iowa.
P.O. Box 65311
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Phone: (888) 722-4799 or (515) 327-9075
Email: autism50ia@aol.com
Brain Injury Alliance of Iowa
Statewide organization representing Iowans of all ages with brain injury, their families, and friends. Services include neuro resource facilitators, support groups, tote bags, education and training, case consultations, and legislative/policy advocacy.
Phone: (855) 444-6443 or (515) 274-9757
Email: info@biaia.org
Center for Disabilities and Development, University of Iowa Healthcare
As Iowa’s University Center for Excellence on Developmental Disabilities, the Center for Disabilities and Development promotes the independence, productivity, and community inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities through a broad range of health care, training, technical assistance, and information-sharing activities.
100 Hawkins Drive
Iowa City, IA 52242-1011
Phone: (877) 686-0031 or (319) 353-6900
http://www.uichildrens.org/cdd
Child Health Specialty Clinics
Through a statewide network of regional centers, Child Health Specialty Clinics provides gap-filling clinical care, health assessments, care coordination and family to family support for Iowa Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs and their families.
Phone: 866-219-9119
Conner Training Connection
Promotes a system of individualized supports that assist Iowans with developmental disabilities to live as fully participating members of their communities.
https://www.disabilitytraining.org/home/contact-us/
Disability Resource Library
DRL collections focus on information for, by, and about people with disabilities. Materials come in a variety of formats, including books, DVDs, training curricula, software, and assistive technology. About 60% of the materials you'll find in the DRL are not found in any other State of Iowa Library Organization library. You can borrow materials in person or by mail.
Phone: (800) 272-7713 or (319) 356-1345
Email: disability-library@uiowa.edu
https://uichildrens.org/cdd/drl
Disability Rights Iowa
Protects the human and legal rights of people with physical disabilities and mental illness in Iowa (formerly Iowa Protection and Advocacy).
400 East Court Avenue, Suite 300
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: (800) 779-2502 or (515) 278-2502
Email: info@DRIowa.org
Easter Seals Iowa
A community-based organization that provides programs, advocacy, education, and support to people who have disabilities, their families, and communities.
State Offices
401 Northeast 66th Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50313
Phone: (515) 309-1300
https://www.easterseals.com/ia/
Easter Seals Assistive Technology Center
Easter Seals Iowa hosts Iowa’s Assistive Technology Program that provides AT demonstration services, AT device loan, and a reuse/listing program.
Phone: (866) 866-8782 or (515) 309-2395
TTY: (515) 289-4069
Email: ATinfo@eastersealsia.org
https://eastersealsia.at4all.com
Epilepsy Foundation Iowa
Statewide organization serving those living with seizure disorders and epilepsy, caregivers, and professionals in all 99 counties of Iowa. Programs and services include seizure recognition and first aid education programs for a variety of audiences, support groups, information and referral to resources, scholarships to attend epilepsy youth camp, an annual family caregiver conference, advocacy, and much more.
1111 9th Street, Suite 370
Des Moines, IA 50314
Phone: (515) 238-7660
200 Hawkins Drive, 2162 RCP
Iowa City, IA 52242
Phone: (319) 359-8682
Email: Iowa@efa.org
*infoNET
Newsletter produced by the DD Council on the top disability-related issues being discussed in the Iowa Legislature and in the U.S. Congress.
Phone: (866) 432-2846
TTY/TDD: (866) 432-2847
Contact: http://www.infonetiowa.org/contact_us/
Iowa Able Foundation
Provides low-interest loans for assistive technology, home modifications, and credit-building purposes.
130 South Sheldon Avenue #201
Ames, IA 50014
Phone: (888) 222-8943 or (515) 292-2972
Iowa Association of Community Providers
An association of agencies providing a variety of services to Iowans with disabilities.
7025 Hickman Road, Suite 5
Urbandale, IA 50322
Phone: (515) 270-9495
Iowa Compass
Iowa Compass has information about programs and services for Iowans with disabilities, their families, and service providers. Access thousands of local, state, and national programs for people with health-related conditions and disabilities. Call, email, chat, text, or search the website for answers to your disability-related questions.
Phone or text: (800) 779-2001
E-mail: iowa-compass@uiowa.edu
Iowa Department on Aging
Serves as a focal point for needs and concerns of older Iowans.
510 East 12th Street, Suite 2
Des Moines, IA 50319-9025
Phone: (800) 532-3213 or (515) 725-3333
Lifelong Links: Iowa’s Aging and Disability Resource Center
Provides older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers with local resources through its toll-free number, searchable database, and in-person assistance.
Phone: (866) 468-7887
Iowa Department of Education
Iowa Department of Education, Family and Educator Partnership
Provides services and supports for families who have children with Individual Education Programs and the educators who teach them in school.
Grimes State Office Building
Des Moines, IA 50319-0146
Phone: (515) 242-5295 or (515) 281-5265
Iowa Department of Human Rights, Office of Persons with Disabilities
Provides individual assistance in areas of advocacy and dispute resolution through their Client Assistance Program. Also provides assessment and guidance to Iowans with disabilities in the areas of employment, education, physical access, housing, transportation, etc.
Lucas State Office Building
Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone: (800) 652-4298 or (515) 242-6172
TTY/Voice: (888) 219-0471
Email: dhr.disabilities@iowa.gov
https://humanrights.iowa.gov/cas/pd
*Iowa Department of Human Rights, Community Action Agencies
Addresses issues facing low-income families by bringing resources to the community level. Links state and federal programs with 17 existing Community Action Agencies and other community-based organizations across the state to effectively serve elderly, disabled, and low-income Iowans.
Phone: (515) 242-5655
https://humanrights.iowa.gov/dcaa
Iowa Department of Human Rights, Iowa Office of Deaf Services
Provides information and advocacy services for Iowans who are deaf or hard of hearing and those who serve them. Information topics include local, state, and national deaf and hard-of-hearing organizations, communication access, and other agencies.
Voice/TTY: (888) 221-3724 or (515) 281-3164
Email: dhr.dsci@iowa.org
https://humanrights.iowa.gov/cas/ds
Iowa Legal Aid
Provides legal services to low-income Iowans.
1111 Ninth Street, Suite 230
Des Moines, IA 50314
Phone: (800) 532-1275
Legal Hotline for Older Iowans: (800) 992-8161
Iowa Secretary of State
Information on registering to vote, finding your polling place, voter guide, absentee ballots, and more.
*Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Works with individuals with disabilities to achieve their employment, education, and economic goals.
Phone: (800) 532-1486 or (515) 281-4211
TTY: (800) 735-2942
National Alliance on Mental Illness, Iowa Office of Consumer Affairs
Provides support and information to families, friends, and individuals with a mental illness.
3839 Merle Hay Road, Suite 226
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: (855) 622-4692 or (515) 254-0417
Email: info@ocaiowa.org
Statewide Independent Living Council
State connection to Iowa’s six Centers for Independent Living. Centers provide services in the areas of information and referral, peer support, independent living skills development, individual and systems advocacy, and transition services.
Phone: (877) 466-7442 or (515) 282-0275
*The Great Debate
A report on the shift from sheltered workshops to competitive integrated employment.
https://iowaapse.org/2018/03/16/the-great-debate/
United Spinal Association, Iowa Chapter
Information and support programs for Iowans with spinal cord injuries or disorders, including families, caregivers, and professionals. Services include recreational and social events.
7625 Goodman Drive
Urbandale, IA 50322
Phone: (515) 554-9759
Email: admin@unitedspinaliowa.org
Vote Smart
One-stop shopping for nonpartisan political information.
https://justfacts.votesmart.org/
*Denotes projects supported by the DD Council.
Every Iowan is represented in Washington, D.C., in the U.S. Congress by two U.S. senators and one U.S. representative. Senator Charles Grassley and Senator Joni Ernst represent you in the U.S. Senate. You are represented in the U.S. House of Representatives by one of Iowa's four U.S. representatives: Representative Randy Feenstra, Representative Ashley Hinson, Representative Marianette Miller-Meeks, or Rep. Zach Nunn. To find out which one, click here.
You can check Congressional schedules, watch what's going on in Congress, track bills you care about, and contact your elected officials representing you in Washington, D.C., using the following links.
Track Action in the U.S. Congress
Congressional Legislation Search
Legislative Process (Congress)
Planning a Visit to the U.S. Capitol
Track Action in the White House
Check In on the White House Briefing Room
Learn More About the President, Vice President, and Their Administration
Read the President's Stand on Issues
Sign Up for Email From the White House
Check In on Your Representatives in Congress
Map of Iowa's Current Congressional districts
Rep. Marianette Miller-Meeks (1st Congressional District)
Rep. Ashley Hinson (2nd Congressional District)
Rep. Zach Nunn (3rd Congressional district)
Rep. Randy Feenstra (4th Congressional District)
ADDITIONAL NATIONAL RESOURCES
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
The professional association run by and for professionals who support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
8403 Colesville Road, Suite 900
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: (202) 387-1968
ADAPT
An organization of people with a variety of disabilities who are steadfast in their advocacy efforts to make the community the place of entitlement instead of institutions.
4513 Tyson Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19135
Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
The U.S. government organization responsible for implementation of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000, known as the DD Act.
Administration for Community Living
330 C Street Southwest
Washington, DC 20201
https://www.aucd.org/template/index.cfm
American Association of People with Disabilities
The nation's largest cross-disability organization. AAPD promotes equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation for people with disabilities.
Americans with Disabilities Act Information
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H.W. Bush. The ADA is one of America's most comprehensive pieces of civil rights legislation that prohibits discrimination and guarantees that people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to participate in the mainstream of American life — to enjoy employment opportunities, to purchase goods and services, and to participate in state and local government programs and services.
The Arc, National
Promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Association of University Centers on Disabilities
A network of interdisciplinary centers advancing policy and practice for and with individuals with developmental and other disabilities, their families, and communities.
Autism Society of America
The Autism Society of America has been improving the lives of all affected by autism for more than 50 years. The organization envisions a world where individuals and families living with autism are able to maximize their quality of life, are treated with the highest level of dignity, and live in a society in which their talents and skills are appreciated and valued. They provide advocacy, education, information and referrals, support, and community at national, state, and local levels through a strong nationwide network of affiliates.
Autistic Self Advocacy Network
Seeks to organize the community of adults with autism to have their voices heard in the national conversation. ASAN believes that the goal of autism advocacy should be a world in which people with autism enjoy the same access, rights, and opportunities as all other citizens.
Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law
Since 1972, the Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law has advocated for the civil rights, full inclusion, and equality of adults and children with mental disabilities.
Center for Parent Information and Resources
A central hub of information and products created for the network of parent centers serving families of children with disabilities.
https://www.parentcenterhub.org/
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid
On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law legislation that established the Medicare and Medicaid programs. For more than 50 years, these programs have been protecting the health and well-being of millions of American families, saving lives, and improving the economic security of our nation. Though Medicare and Medicaid started as basic insurance programs for Americans who didn’t have health insurance, they’ve changed over the years to provide more and more Americans with access to the quality and affordable health care they need.
Cerebral Palsy Group
Dedicated to providing information, material, and resources to parents with children who have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
http://cerebralpalsygroup.com/support/
Citizens Guide to U.S. Government Finances
This website creates and organizes timely, needed government information and makes it accessible to the public anytime, anywhere via their channel of choice.
Consortium for Citizens With Disabilities
A coalition of approximately 100 national disability organizations working together to advocate for national public policy that ensures the self-determination, independence, empowerment, integration, and inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in all aspects of society.
Council on Quality and Leadership
Works with human service organizations to improve the quality of life for all people.
Disability.gov
The federal government’s one-stop website for people with disabilities, their families, employers, veterans and service members, workforce professionals, and many others. A collaborative effort among 22 federal agencies, this site connects people with disabilities to the information and resources they need to actively participate in the workforce and in their communities.
https://www.dol.gov/odep/topics/disability.htm
Disability Rights and Education Defense Fund
A national law and policy center dedicated to protecting and advancing the civil rights of people with disabilities.
Families USA
A national nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to the achievement of high-quality, affordable health care for all Americans.
Federal Legislation on the Internet
Congress.gov is the official website for U.S. federal legislative information. The site provides access to accurate, timely, and complete legislative information for members of Congress, legislative agencies, and the public. It is presented by the Library of Congress (LOC) using data from the Office of the Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives, the Office of the Secretary of the Senate, the Government Publishing Office, Congressional Budget Office, and the LOC's Congressional Research Service.
Investing in Our Future
A special report entitled Investing in Our Future: Youth, Employment and Post-Secondary Opportunities, The Experiences of Developmental Disabilities Councils Report Prepared for the Partnerships in Employment Project 2012.
Job Accommodation Network, U.S. Department of Labor
The Job Accommodation Network is the leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues.
KidNeeds.com
A worldwide resource that provides children with special needs, families, and other caregivers with access to comprehensive information and resources.
Mortgageloan.com
A guide to help individuals living with disabilities, and their family members, in the process of buying a home of their own. Here you can learn more about the five important steps in buying a home and about financial assistance programs that are available to those living with disabilities who want to buy a home.
https://www.mortgageloan.com/disabilities
National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
The national association for the 56 councils on developmental disabilities (DD councils) across the U.S. and its territories. The DD councils receive federal funding to support programs that promote self-determination, integration, and inclusion for all people in the U.S. with developmental disabilities.
National Center for Learning Disabilities
Devoted to monitoring the reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
National Coalition of Parent Centers
Provides information on Parent Training and Information Centers and Community Parent Resource Centers throughout the country. Parent centers serve families of children with physical, cognitive learning, and emotional disabilities.
https://www.parentcenterhub.org/
National Council on Disability
An independent federal agency charged with advising the president, Congress, and other federal agencies regarding policies, programs, practices, and procedures that affect people with disabilities. NCD is comprised of a team of presidential and Congressional appointees, an executive director appointed by the chair, and a full-time professional staff.
National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health
A national family-run organization that serves to do the following:
Provide advocacy at the national level for the rights of children and youth with emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges and their families.
Provide leadership and technical assistance to a nationwide network of family-run organizations.
Collaborate with family-run and other child-serving organizations to transform mental health care in America.
National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research
Generates new knowledge and promotes its effective use to improve the abilities of individuals with disabilities to perform activities of their choice in the community. Expands society’s capacity to provide full opportunities and accommodations for citizens with disabilities.
National Organization on Disability
Expands the participation and contribution of America’s 54 million men, women, and children with disabilities in all aspects of life. By raising disability awareness through programs and information, together we can close the participation gap.
National Self-Determination Office
The Center for Self-Determination is a nonprofit organization, established in 2000, operating as the primary clearinghouse, training, and technical assistance source on self-determination in the U.S. and other countries. The Center is devoted to working within the public and private sectors to move power and authority over resources directly to individuals with disabilities, families, and allies.
http://www.self-determination.com/
Office of Special Education Programs, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services
Dedicated to improving results for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities ages birth through 21 by providing leadership and financial support to assist states and local districts.
https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/index.html
PACER Center
The Minnesota Parent Training and Information Center, which also serves as the national technical assistance center for all PTIs in the nation and territories.
Partnerships in Employment Technical Assistance Center
The Institute for Community Inclusion and the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services provide training and technical assistance to six state projects in Alaska, California, Iowa, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. The purpose of these projects is to change state systems to improve employment outcomes for youth and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
https://www.communityinclusion.org/
Progressive Policies Report
A special report entitled Progressive Policies to Support People with Intellectual Disabilities in Meaningful Competitive Employment.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/mfow4hx3irg5msy/NDRN%20Report%20to%20PIE.doc?m
Self Advocates Becoming Empowered
The self-advocacy organization of the U.S. Founded in 1990, the organization works for the full inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in the community.
Social Security Administration
Federal government entity offering assistance on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both provide a minimum monthly income in the form of cash payments to qualified persons who meet income and disability eligibility requirements.
Phone: (800) 772-1213
TTY: (800) 325-0778
https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-disable-ussi.htm
United Cerebral Palsy, National
UCP and its 64 affiliates share a mission to advance the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of people with cerebral palsy, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and other conditions. The UCP network of affiliates provides services and support to more than 176,000 children and adults every day — one person at a time, one family at a time.
Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Provides services for those with developmental disabilities, training for families, outreach activities, and additional information.
https://www.waisman.wisc.edu/general-information/families/
Wheelchair Net
The International Society of Wheelchair Professionals was launched in February 2015 with a mission to provide wheelchair users worldwide with the best technology and service.
Wrightslaw
Legal information regarding the various laws that impact people with disabilities and their families, and the systems that provide services and supports to them.
Home and Community Based Services
There is a lot of work being done at both the state and federal levels to address the need for home and community based service (HCBS) options for individuals with disabilities. The state is looking at "equalizing" waivers so the services you need are not tied to the type of disability. Congress is considering making HCBS mandatory rather than optional, which would end waiting lists for waiver services. Either option will take more money. Right now, Congress is considering options for funding.
The Arc's Medicaid Can't Wait Campaign (lots of info here, including video options)
Find out how it impacts Iowa, and download a one-pager on it
Livable Homes Coalition
Many Iowans with a disability cannot live safely in their homes and may be forced to move into residential long-term care facilities rather than stay at home. There are a few local programs to help pay for needed home modifications, but these programs do not currently serve the whole state. There is funding for home modifications available through the Medicaid program, but it is only available to Medicaid members.
Organizations that support older Iowans, individuals with disabilities (including the Iowa DD Council), and those with serious health conditions have been working together to advocate for a statewide home modification grant program to help fill this gap. They have formed the Livable Homes Coalition.
The Coalition supports the creation of an infrastructure program to help low-income Iowans living with a disability caused by age, chronic disease, or injury to modify their homes to increase accessibility, safety, and independence. The Coalition is asking for $1 million to fund grants of up to $5,000 each to help offset the costs of modifying homes of persons who are over the age of 65 or living with a disability. To be eligible, the person must own their home and must not earn more than 300% of the federal poverty level.
Talking Points:
- Living safely in their own home is preferred by seniors and individuals with disabilities. It promotes emotional wellbeing, independence and helps maintain a connection to their community. Many individuals who can live safely in their home can contribute to Iowa’s workforce.
- The program administered by IDA would allow ALL Iowans access to funding for home modifications so they can live safely in their home. Common modifications include common ramps to get into a home, grab bars, lifts, or renovations such as widening hallways and making bathrooms accessible.
- Only 11 of Iowa’s 99 counties have access to a home modification grant program, leaving large gaps across the state for those who need assistance. A statewide program would allow individuals to access assistance regardless of their ZIP code.
- Individuals living in rural communities would benefit the most from a statewide program. Iowan’s seniors and those living with a disability in rural areas deserve to age in place instead of being forced into care outside of their community.
- An investment in a home modification assistance program would save the state millions in long term care costs through the years.
- Iowa has some of the oldest home stock in the country, with many of the homes in rural communities being built before 1940.
- Home modifications range in price, but the average homeowner can expect to pay $9,000 to modify a home to meet their needs.
New Budgets in 2023 (Fiscal Year 2024: July 1, 2023-June 30, 2024)
During the 2023 Legislative Session, legislators will pass 11 budget bills to fund state government in the next fiscal year, which will begin July 1, 2023. This usually happens late in the legislative session, in the months of March and April. However, we will post the Governor's budget requests when available.
Current Year (July 1, 2022-June 30, 2023) Budgets
In 2022, the Iowa Legislature passed 11 budget bills to fund parts of state government. The state budget year (called a "fiscal year") starts on July 1. The 2022 Iowa Legislature approved fiscal year 2023 budgets, which fund state government from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023. Click on the links below for the nonpartisan staff review of the FY 2022 budgets passed by the Legislature that are now law.
Infrastructure (also called RIIF, for Rebuild Iowa Infrastructure Fund)
