Maryland Department of Disabilities

09/14/2026

Honoring Our Direct Support Professionals!

It’s Direct Support Professional Week, and the Maryland Department of Disabilities is proud to celebrate the incredible DSPs who empower Marylanders with disabilities to live independently and thrive every day.

Governor Wes Moore has issued an official state proclamation recognizing this week to honor their vital contributions, skill, and dedication as the backbone of our community support system.

To all Maryland DSPs: Thank you for your extraordinary service!

Click the link below to read the full proclamation.
https://mdod.maryland.gov/pub/Pages/dsp2026proc.aspx

09/11/2026

Join the Maryland Disability Forum for one of their upcoming in-person Voter Education Workshops tailored specifically for individuals with disabilities. These free workshops offer a great space to connect with community members, ask questions, and build civic power!

09/09/2026

September is Emergency Preparedness Month!

Did you know you can securely share vital health information with first responders before an emergency happens?

Through the Help Responders Help You Initiative, creating a free, secure Emergency Health Profile lets 9-1-1 dispatchers and first responders instantly see critical medical details—like conditions, medications, mobility, or communication needs—the second you call. Your data is strictly shared with 9-1-1 during active calls.

Watch the step-by-step tutorial from the Maryland Department of Disabilities to set up your profile on any device:

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

09/07/2026

Happy from the Maryland Department of Disabilities!
Our offices are closed today.
Have a safe and happy holiday!
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09/04/2026

Governors across the nation are uniting to deliver a clear message: Civil rights for people with disabilities are non-negotiable.

In response to recent federal actions stepping back from enforcement of the landmark Olmstead v. L.C. Supreme Court ruling, Maryland Governor Wes Moore joined a coalition of state executives to issue a joint letter reaffirming an absolute commitment to community-based care.

"For decades, Olmstead has ensured people with disabilities can live, work, and thrive in their communities... In the face of federal attacks on the civil rights of people with disabilities, our administration stands with the community, their families, and advocates as we reiterate our unwavering commitment to the ADA and the protections guaranteed by Olmstead."

— Governor Wes Moore

While federal guidance shifts, states are doubling down on independence, inclusion, and dignity for all residents. Every individual deserves the choice to live and thrive in their home community.

Governor Hochul led a group of 18 governors who sent a letter to Attorney General Todd Blanche calling on him to continue the federal government’s longstanding support for community-based care and the rights of people with disabilities to live with dignity in their own communities.

09/03/2026

The Maryland Department of Disabilities (MDOD) submitted official feedback to help shape the new national autism strategic plan!

Here is what we called for at the federal level:

- Community Living: Everyone deserves to live in their own home and community—not in segregated facilities.

- More In-Home Care: Increase federal funding for Medicaid home and community services so families get the support they need without long waitlists.

- Autonomy & Support: Push for supported decision-making options so adults with autism keep their independence, making guardianship a last resort.

- Acceptance & Fact-Based Information: Use the proposed autism website to correct misinformation, reject the idea that autism needs a "cure," and promote true acceptance.

Maryland is working to advance autism strategy, and federal policy should mirror these efforts.

Read our full letter here: https://mdod.maryland.gov/pub/Pages/IACC-Comment.aspx

09/01/2026

Happy Deaf Awareness Month! Check out the Telecommunications Access of Maryland (Maryland Relay) to learn about free accessible telecommunication devices and services.

September is Deaf Awareness Month
This month is all about celebrating the rich culture, history, and language of the Deaf community while recognizing that true inclusion requires accessible communication for everyone.

Whether it's ASL or accessible technology, breaking down communication barriers ensures that every individual can fully participate in work, education, and daily life.

How you can help spread awareness today:
1. Share this post with friends and family in Maryland.
2. Learn more about local relay services and accessible equipment.
3. Be mindful of inclusive communication in your daily life!

Telecommunications Access of Maryland (TAM) is proud to support our state’s Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing community every step of the way.

Learn more about accessible resources in Maryland: https://bit.ly/4roinPU

08/28/2026

Huge congrats to Secretary Carol A. Beatty on winning the WeAchieve Legacy Champion Award!

Thank you, Secretary Beatty, for everything you do for Marylanders with disabilities. Your endless advocacy, vision, and dedication to accessibility and real inclusion make such a huge difference—and inspire all of us every single day.

08/27/2026

Celebrating Technology First Day!

Secretary Carol Beatty spoke on how assistive technology opens doors to independence, self-determination, and community access for Marylanders of all abilities.

Thank you to everyone who continue to join us in building a more accessible state!

08/27/2026

Know an Extraordinary Direct Support Professional in Maryland?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) make a world of difference every single day, empowering people with disabilities to live fulfilling, independent lives. Now it's time to recognize their dedication!

If you know a DSP in Maryland who goes above and beyond, nominate them today for the recognition they deserve! If chosen, your nominee will be recognized during a DSP celebration at the end of September. Specific date and location to be announced later.

Deadline: Friday, August 28, 2026, 11:59 p.m.
Nomination Form Link: https://bit.ly/45cIH62