Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns

06/04/2026

Questions about service animals? Check out this link from the ADA National Network that provides great information!

https://adata.org/faq/can-i-exclude-animal-doesnt-really-seem-dangerous-disruptive-my-business?fbclid=IwY2xjawSOY9NleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFvMXRuRmdLZVJvS2cyYUZXc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHiLMJegHLUEFHIy4hym44rt3eYhJAt0ovl8UymJygXWtV4FVlMDinOkrn87e_aem_4XzpfQ48FpS2BU-94mj-qw

In what situation is a business owner permitted to ask a handler to remove their service animal if it’s being disruptive?

A decision to exclude a service animal cannot be based on the notion that an animal might threaten the safety of others. It also cannot be based on a business person’s assumptions or bad experiences with other animals. Each service animal must be considered individually.

Check out our FAQ page to learn more: https://adata.org/faq/can-i-exclude-animal-doesnt-really-seem-dangerous-disruptive-my-business

06/02/2026

took home the Emmy® for Outstanding Social Issue Doc! Co-directors Samuel and Dan Habib and co-producer Erica Lupinacci proudly accepted the award at last night’s ceremony in New York for them, Executive Producers Jim LeBrecht and Sara Bolder, and editor James Rutenbeck.
We’re thrilled beyond to officially be 2x Emmy® Award winners!

Image Description: Dan Habib, Samuel Habib, and Erica Lupinacci smiling in front of an Emmys and YouTube step and repeat. Dan is holding up an Emmy statue

We won!! 🏆

took home the Emmy® for Outstanding Social Issue Doc! Co-directors Samuel and Dan Habib and co-producer Erica Lupinacci proudly accepted the award at last night’s ceremony in New York for them, Executive Producers Jim LeBrecht and Sara Bolder, and editor James Rutenbeck.

We’re thrilled beyond to officially be 2x Emmy® Award winners!

Image Description: Dan Habib, Samuel Habib, and Erica Lupinacci smiling in front of an Emmys and YouTube step and repeat. Dan is holding up an Emmy statue.

05/30/2026

Individuals with disabilities who work have better health outcomes, multiple studies have shown. Better health means lower costs for about 1 out of 3 adults on Medicaid who have a disability (PDF). More people employed also means more taxpayers contributing to the economy.

“This work benefits not just the people with disabilities themselves but the economy of the state of Kansas,” said Noelle Kurth, a researcher at IHDPS involved in the project. “More people employed and paying taxes is a good thing for the state.”

People with disabilities employed at fair wages also have lower rates of poverty, greater independence and a higher quality of life than those who are unemployed or work in segregated settings.

People with disabilities want to work — and contribute in meaningful ways.
KU researchers at KUCD - Kansas University Center on Disabilities and University of Kansas Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies are partnering with the state of Kansas to improve how systems connect individuals to jobs, helping more Kansans find employment that reflects their strengths and goals.
With new investment, this work is growing statewide.
👉 Learn more: https://loom.ly/bPtjM9A

05/26/2026

🫶The Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns wants to congratulate everyone selected to participate in the National Disability Leadership Series. Commissioners Whit Downing and Sean Tyree are among this year's participants and are incredible advocates who lead by example!🙌

05/26/2026

For those who don't know, the FIFA World Cup is coming to Kansas City this summer. Here are some sensory friendly tips to prepare for the event in Kansas City.

Sensory Friendly Planning Tips

Kansas City is preparing to welcome visitors from around the world during FIFA World Cup festivities. While big events can bring excitement and energy to our community, they can also bring noise, crowds, traffic, longer wait times, and changes to everyday routines.

At eitas, we know that preparation can help reduce stress and help people feel more comfortable, confident, and connected in their communities.

Here are a few sensory friendly planning tips to consider ahead of busy event days:

• Plan errands, appointments, and outings during quieter times when possible.

• Bring comfort items that help with regulation, such as headphones, sunglasses, snacks, fidgets, or calming tools.

• Allow extra travel time to reduce stress caused by traffic or unexpected delays.

• Talk through changes in routine ahead of time and explain what to expect in ways that feel supportive and easy to understand.

• Identify quiet spaces or backup locations where someone can take a break if crowds or noise become overwhelming.

• Keep phones, devices, and communication plans updated in case plans change quickly.

• Plan ahead for groceries, medications, and essential errands to help avoid busy stores and long lines.

• Remember that accessibility and sensory awareness benefit everyone. Flexible, welcoming communities help more people safely participate in everyday life.

Big events should still leave room for everyone to safely participate in community life.

Read our latest blog for more tips. https://conta.cc/3PIUHI2

05/26/2026

Check out this incredible video about Wheelchair Basketball featuring Midwest Adaptive Sports and the Kansas City Kings Wheelchair Basketball Team by Vice Sports!

The Kansas City Kings fight for a national championship in one of the most intense adaptive sports in the world: wheelchair basketball.This is more than bask...

05/26/2026

Congratulations to the Employment Support Professionals in Kansas who have completed the Kansas ACRE 100 accredited training!

05/23/2026

The Kansas Disability Caucus registration is open! The Caucus will be held August 12-14, 2026 at Hotel Topeka at City Center in Topeka. People with all types of disabilities, of all ages, representing every county of the State, are invited to attend. Register today at http://tinyurl.com/2026KDCregistration. Registration deadline is July 17, 2026.

Our next Kansas Disability Caucus will be held in August of 2026!Get excited! You can now register!! Theme: “Empowerment in Action- Shaping Our Future”When: August 12-14, 2026Where: Hotel Topeka at…

05/23/2026

"Ticket to Work" is a federal program designed to support your re-entry into the workforce, without jeopardizing your cash or medical benefits.

"Ticket to Work" is a federal program designed to support your re-entry into the workforce, without jeopardizing your cash or medical benefits. Visit bit.ly/KSTicketToWork and fill out a short form to be connected with an Employment Service Provider near you who can help you achieve your employment goals!