Florida ARF Celebrates Disability Pride Month
Tallahassee, FL (July 31, 2026) As we wrap up the month of July, we are coming to the end of Disability Pride Month, which is celebrated each July and coincides with the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA was a groundbreaking piece of civil rights legislation that has made an enduring impact on millions of Americans’ lives and has inspired disability-led advocacy around the world when it was signed into law on July 26, 1990. This landmark civil rights legislation affirms and protects the rights of people with disabilities to participate in public life. It forbids discrimination on the basis of disability in the areas of employment, government services, public accommodations, access to transportation, and communications. Under the ADA, employers are also required to make reasonable accommodations for applicants or employees with a disability.
Disability Pride Month is a time to honor the history, achievements, experiences, and struggles of the disability community. It challenges the outdated stereotypes and stigma that too often surround disabilities and reminds us that disability is not something to be ashamed of but rather a vital part of our rich human tapestry. It is also a time to show what disability pride means and what people with disabilities are proud of. We celebrate this month raising awareness of the issues that people with disabilities still face today.
Honoring Our Flag & Preparing to Celebrate America 250
Tallahassee, FL (June 12, 2026) As we move through June and into July, our nation enters a season of reflection, celebration, and historic significance. From Flag Day to Independence Day - and especially this year’s 250th anniversary of American independence - this is a meaningful time to reconnect with our shared heritage and look ahead to the future.
Observed each year on June 14, Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the American flag in 1777. While quieter than other patriotic holidays, its significance runs deep. The Stars and Stripes serve as a powerful symbol of freedom and democracy, unity across states and communities, and the enduring values that define our nation. The flag’s design tells our story - 13 stripes for the original colonies and 50 stars representing the number of states today.
This year, July 4, 2026, marks a truly historic milestone - the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Known as the Semiquincentennial, this celebration goes beyond tradition. It invites all Americans to reflect on 250 years of history, honor the diverse contributions that shaped our nation, and look ahead to the next generation.
Together - especially in this 250th anniversary year - they offer a powerful reminder of who we are and what we stand for. As we celebrate America at 250, we are reminded that our nation’s story is still being written. This moment is not only about honoring the past - it’s about shaping the future with intention, unity, and purpose. Let’s take this time to reflect, celebrate, and continue building the next chapter of the American story for Floridians with disabilities - together.
Florida Legislature Passes FY 26-27 Budget
Tallahassee, FL (May 29, 2026) After a delay of several months, the Florida Legislature came back on May 12th to begin the Special Session focused on the FY 26-27 budget. The Legislature agreed to an approximate $114.5 billion dollar funding agreement for the coming state fiscal year. After much advocacy for the last year, the Legislature provided iBudget Waiver providers a 1% across the board rate increase. While this is not the amount Florida ARF was seeking or that the provider community needs to continue providing vital community services, we were pleased to have received at least a small increase. Also, the Legislature recognized the current iConnect system cannot continue in its current form and they allocated over $33 million for an iConnect replacement. The Community ICF appropriation was increased by $3.6 million for the coming year. Additional funds were also appropriated for the ICMC program. Now we wait for the budget to be sent to Governor DeSantis for his signature.
The Association is appreciative to the Florida Legislature for the achievements this Session. Florida ARF will continue advocating for needed funding to support the needs of our members in preparation of the 2027 Session.
Florida ARF Recognizes Autism Acceptance Month
Tallahassee, FL (April 1, 2026) During Autism Acceptance Month, we celebrate and promote awareness of the condition that is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the United States. Data from the CDC reveals that about 1 in 31 children are diagnosed with autism, up from 1 in 125 two decades ago. Autism, a complex developmental condition affecting the individual’s ability to interact, communicate, and socialize, has not one but many subtypes. Every individual on the Autism spectrum brings their own unique strengths, talents, and perspectives to the world, and deserves to feel understood, accepted, and valued. Autism Acceptance Month emphasizes the need for public awareness to recognize the importance of supporting, understanding, accepting, including, and empowering people on the autism spectrum in our community and workplaces.
In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, Florida ARF honors the contribution of Floridians on the autism spectrum in our state. We join other organizations in recognizing the needs of people on the spectrum to lead full and successful lives. The Association understands the need to foster awareness to ignite change and improved opportunities for people with autism. Join us as we raise awareness and acceptance to promote autism awareness, celebrate neurodiversity and individual differences, and continue to advance inclusivity and connectedness throughout the community. Together, we can make a better world for those with Autism!
