Weekly Edition - 5.20.25

📜 Legal victories save crucial rights. Pennsylvania takes action on group home safety concerns while the Eagles shatter fundraising records for autism research. Meanwhile, Netflix renews a beloved dating series for a fourth heartwarming season.

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The Big Idea

This week’s featured story: a closer look at developments making waves in the I/DD community

🔙 They backed down. All 17 states challenging Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act have officially abandoned their attempt to declare this crucial disability protection unconstitutional.

What happened? Earlier this year, attorneys general from 17 states filed a federal lawsuit against the Department of Health and Human Services that threatened to overturn Section 504 entirely. The case initially focused on preventing gender dysphoria from being considered a disability, but went much further by asking the court to declare the entire law unconstitutional.

In a joint status report filed with the court, the states clearly stated they "have no intention to seek any relief from this Court on Count 3 (Section 504 is Unconstitutional) of their Complaint." The court has agreed to continue the pause that has been in place for several months. Section 504 is fundamental for protecting students and all individuals with disabilities from discrimination. It ensures equal access to education, healthcare, housing, and other essential services that receive federal funding.

The resolution follows coordinated advocacy efforts between AOTA, state occupational therapy associations, and other disability rights advocates. For families and individuals who rely on these protections, this means the essential framework for disability rights remains intact. For more information about this case and its implications, you can read the original AOTA article here.

Moments That Matter

Celebrating the everyday victories, breakthrough achievements, and inspiring individuals

‼️ $10 million raised. The Philadelphia Eagles' Autism Challenge smashed records in 2025, generating over $10 million for autism research and care—a staggering increase from $8.1 million in 2024. More than 7,000 participants joined bike rides and walk/runs, including current Eagles players, coaches, and legends like Jason Kelce. This remarkable growth demonstrates how sports organizations can create meaningful community impact beyond the field. The Challenge has now raised more than $40 million since 2018, with all proceeds directly supporting autism research. If you'd like to learn more about this impactful event or how to contribute before the May 31st deadline, check out the full article on NBC Sports Philadelphia.

💘 Love finds a way. Netflix just renewed the heartwarming "Love on the Spectrum" for a fourth season, announced during their New York City upfront event. The Emmy Award-winning series, which follows singles on the autism spectrum searching for romantic connections, has captured viewers' hearts with genuine stories of love and vulnerability. Season 3 saw fan-favorite Connor finally finding his "demigoddess," Abbey and David exploring their future together, and newcomer Madison discovering her cowboy sweetheart—she's even moved closer to him as their relationship deepens. Season 4 is expected to air in 2026.

Across The Nation

From Capitol Hill to community centers: the national updates shaping our collective future

🔦 Pennsylvania's deadly group home scandal demands attention. State officials have taken decisive action against Supportive Concepts after uncovering a disturbing pattern: four deaths, four serious injuries, 11 cases of abuse, and 77 instances of neglect within just one year. Regulators have banned the company from accepting new residents in 103 homes across Northeastern Pennsylvania and revoked one facility's license where staff failed to follow critical medical instructions, resulting in a resident's death. Disability rights advocates are alarmed that despite these severe violations, the company continues to operate most facilities and receive state funding during the appeals process. This troubling situation raises urgent questions about protection for our most vulnerable citizens. For more details, check out the original article.