March is a beautiful month in Arkansas as the world begins again with spring. It is also a great time to celebrate the many ways we work together to help every Arkansan grow and be their best.

Nationally, we observe Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and, in Arkansas, that includes the Arkansas Department of Human Services hosting its annual recognition on March 12th. This is a special occasion to honor the work of critical agencies and nonprofits that support and provide opportunities for our family, friends and community members living with developmental challenges. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 6 children have a developmental disability. Within this group is a broad spectrum of needs involving chronic conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), developmental delay, intellectual disabilities and some speech, learning and psychological impairments.  

We are blessed that our state offers many tremendous resources to give children a boost as they develop as well as assist adults in living to their full potential. These range from community-based programs providing support to people living at home or in specialized settings, to our Human Development Centers for those who need a more structured environment to succeed.   

Over the years, I’ve been honored to visit work programs, day centers and early intervention schools throughout the state. The input of people with special needs, along with their families, guardians and advocates, is critical to helping me understand the needs of this diverse population. 

I am especially proud of our sheltered workshops that provide meaningful job training and work opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. I was pleased to join Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) last fall in pushing back against an attempt by the Biden administration’s U.S. Department of Labor to abolish the 14(c) program. This certification provides those who experience difficulties in traditional work environments the opportunity to learn new skills and still perform dignified, meaningful work that enhances their quality of life. 

Supporting these men and women, and their loved ones or caregivers, with policies to help them better navigate and achieve some degree of independence is important.

I also frequently hear about the challenges our citizens with disabilities face in planning for the expenses of daily life without losing critical services. I’ve long supported the use of ABLE saving accounts to help address this problem, and was proud to partner with Senators Eric Schmitt (R-MO) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) to introduce the Ensuring Nationwide Access to Better Life Experience Act (ENABLE) Act. 

This bipartisan legislation would make several provisions related to ABLE accounts permanent and allow Americans with disabilities and their families to utilize tax-free savings programs without losing eligibility for federal programs, such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. Helping them pursue financial security is a vital step Congress should take.

This month celebrates awareness for a reason. Unfortunately, people with developmental disabilities can seem invisible in our society because their challenges may keep them from participating in community events or families often are not eager to share details about their loved one’s health challenges. However, it is critical that we work together in establishing and expanding opportunities for everyone to live with dignity and find what they need to grow.

I know Arkansans understand the value of this endeavor and I am pleased to be a voice and advocate in Washington as we pursue these worthy goals.