August 2026 Council Meeting Recap
August 14, 2026
Council members awarded funding to continue ongoing projects, developed legislative advocacy strategies, and more.
Council members awarded funding to continue ongoing projects, developed legislative advocacy strategies, and more.
TCDD is seeking a Public Policy Analyst to perform policy and legislative advocacy activities that support our Council’s goals and priorities.
A selection of recent disability news, information, resources, advocacy opportunities, and more.
Access free online trainings and advance your disability advocacy skills.
A selection of recent disability news, information, resources, advocacy opportunities, and more.
Gerken previously worked on disability policy through positions at The Arc of Texas, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, and Easterseals Central Texas. She joined TCDD on July 1, 2020.
Kaleh coordinates external communications for TCDD, including public advocacy campaigns and outreach activities for the Council’s initiatives. She joined TCDD on Jan. 19, 2021.
Gov. Greg Abbott released his list of emergency items, and the Texas House set its committee appointments.
The four-part webinar series is titled, “Promoting a Positive Experience with Special Education in Rural Communities and Small Districts.” It begins Jan. 26, 2021.
During the first week of the session, the House and Senate approved rules on legislative procedure, public testimony, and COVID-19 testing for lawmakers and visitors to the Capitol building.
During the meetings, Council members awarded funding to new and ongoing projects; visited with state lawmakers at the Texas Capitol; and engaged in discussions on disability topics.
HB 199 would establish a sales tax exemption for child and adult diapers. The bill was authored by Rep. Donna Howard.
The governor and lieutenant governor announce their priorities for the session as the Texas House sets its committee membership.
HB 1781 would establish accountability guidelines for specialized support campuses with consultation from educators, parents, and other stakeholders. The bill was authored by Rep. Gina Hinojosa.
The press conference on ending harmful restraint practices, bill filings, a legislative training opportunity, and TCDD’s first policy team member spotlight.
