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Policy

AAIDD Is Your Voice in Washington

With the national headquarters located just steps from the U.S. Capitol, AAIDD leaders and staff keep track of federal actions which affect the field.

AAIDD staff and members testify before Congress, the Administration and the U.S. Supreme Court. When legislation is introduced or regulations are presented, AAIDD is there to investigate, evaluate, and inform our members to ensure federal actions are in the best interest for our profession as well as for those with intellectual disabilities.

An Amicus Curiae To The U.S. Supreme Court

With the vote of confidence of its leaders and the voice of our 5,000 members, AAIDD frequently participates in important court cases, and has been quoted by the Court in its decisions.

AAIDD has taken a stand in recent U.S. Supreme Court cases on everything from medical decisions affecting newborns, school exclusion, and exclusionary zoning of group homes to the rights of defendants charged in criminal cases.

AAIDD Affects National And State Priorities

AAIDD plays a critical role in setting policy and priorities by working closely with federal agencies in the U.S. Departments of Education and Health and Human Services, such as the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, and the Division of Maternal and Child Health.

Our members further impact national policy by serving on national advisory committees such as the President's Committee for People With Intellectual Disabilities.

As a founding member of inter-association organizations -- such as the Consortium for Citizens With Disabilities, the National Coalition on Prevention of Intellectual Disabilities, the Council on Quality and Leadership , and the International Association for the Scientific Study of Intellectual Disabilities -- AAIDD joins with other disability organizations to influence policy and priorities in the U.S. and abroad.