At the WarmLine, we are aware that as parents, we are all busy with our daily lives...there never seem to be enough hours in the day for our children's various activities (both therapeutic, educational and recreational), work and our own "time out".  However, the our children need our support and advocacy more than ever!

Federal Legislation (IDEA - Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)

The federal government is in the process of reauthorizing IDEA, which is the federal law that protects a student's special education rights, and provides for programs such as Head Start and Early Intervention services.  Legislation and programs for children with special needs are being crafted to comply with the principles of "No Child Left Behind". 

California Legislation

As you know, the State of California is undergoing a severe budget crisis.  The state legislature is currently debating what programs will lose funds and what programs will be cut entirely.  Some of the programs that are in jeopardy are programs that directly affect families of children with special needs.

We are providing links to websites that are meant to provide families, professionals and the community with resources to explain the upcoming legislation that will  influence the delivery of services to children with special needs.  The links will help you understand pending laws and program changes and will give information on how you, as parents and professionals who are involved in the lives of children with speical needs, can make your voices heard by your elected officials.

The WarmLine does not endorse any opinions, services or programs listed, nor is this a complete listing of available resources and websites.  If you know of any additional resources that may be helpful to include in the future, please contact us.

• Support for Families of Children with Disabilities: http://www.supportforfamilies.org/legislative/current.html
• Marty Omoto, Director/Organizer of California Disability Community Action Network http://www.cdcan.us
• Association of Regional Center Agencies: http://www.arcanet.org/Default.htm
• Council for Exceptional Children: http://www.cec.sped.org/pp/
• Matrix Parent Network and Resource Center: http://www.matrixparents.org/
• Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, Inc.: http://www.dredf.org/
• United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Sacramento:  http:www.ucpsacto.org/legislation.htm
• Easter Seals Superior California: http://www.superiorca.easter-seals.org/site/PageServer?pagename=CASU_legislative_action
• California Department of Education, Special Education Division:http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/se/