DRTx, joined by several other organizations, filed a friend-of-the-court Brief in the United States Supreme Court in a case where jailors placed a man they knew to be suicidal in a cell with a 30-inch telephone cord that the inmate proceeded to use to die by suicide. The Brief discusses the well-known and well-documented risks… Continue reading “DRTx Files Brief Involving Suicide of Inmate with Mental Illness”
In February 2021, Winter Storm Uri devastated many parts of Texas and severely impacted the lives of many people with disabilities. The winter storm ushered in extremely cold temperatures and a lot of snow, leaving many people stranded without access to power and water for days on end. Winter is here once again, and it… Continue reading “Winter Preparedness Tips for Texans with Disabilities”
Have you ever seen a news title that got your attention, so you read the article and realize the headline had little to do with the full story? Sometimes news and social media posts may contain partial truths, misleading headlines, or the limited experience of a few people. When it comes to making decisions about… Continue reading “Click bait or the real deal? What’s really true about the COVID-19 vaccine”
USCA Order: Attorney General Paxton’s emergency motion is GRANTED, and the district court’s injunction prohibiting the enforcement of GA-38 in Texas public schools is hereby STAYED pending appeal. (lt) Response from Dustin Rynders, Supervising Attorney at Disability Rights Texas: “We are disappointed by the 5th Circuit’s decision allowing Texas to continue enforcing the ban on… Continue reading “Statement on 5th Circuit Court decision on stay in mask mandate ban lawsuit”
There are some days ahead that you know are going to come. You ready your mind for that day. But then it comes and no matter how you much you think you have prepared, you aren’t. That day is here for Disability Rights Texas. After an almost 37-year career with our organization, the last 20… Continue reading “DRTx Executive Director Retires After Nearly 37 Years”
October is National Disability Awareness Month. This year we have some exciting things planned, including a webinar and legal clinic on October 28, 2021 – “Asking for Workplace Accommodations: It Doesn’t Have to Be Spooky.” We’ll also be posting on social media helpful information such as employer toolkits, Know Your Disability Employment Rights resources for… Continue reading “Hiring People with Disabilities: It’s Good for Business”
In honor of National Hispanic Heritage month, which kicks off today and runs through October 15th, we wanted to share about some of the Hispanic disability advocates who are doing great things in the community for disability rights. Andrea Lausell Andrea was born with Spina Bifida lipomyelomeningocele, one of the least common forms of Spina… Continue reading “National Hispanic Heritage Month”
by Steven Aleman, Attorney and Education Policy Specialist for DRTx State lawmakers met in 2021 and along with other public school issues, addressed the needs of students with disabilities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic with the passage of the COVID-19 Special Education Recovery Act. This Act requires the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee for… Continue reading “Texas Lawmakers Pass COVID-19 Special Education Recovery Act”
Written by Steven Aleman, Attorney and Education Policy Specialist for DRTx State lawmakers met in Austin for the 87th Legislature in 2021. Among other public school issues, they addressed the needs of students with disabilities who have, or should have, a behavioral intervention plan (BIP). Updates to the Texas Education Code now require public schools… Continue reading “New State Law Regarding Behavioral Intervention Plans”
Our July 2021 newsletter encourages you to celebrate the 31st anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act this month by doing your part in creating a more inclusive digital space. We offered basic tips on accessible documents, social media and websites, but some of you may be wondering what some of the terms like “alt… Continue reading “Doing Your Part to Create an Accessible Digital World”