California strengthens its dedication to disability rights as Governor Newsom highlights key initiatives and investments in developmental services during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Sacramento, California – In a significant move to support and recognize individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Governor Gavin Newsom has officially declared March 2025 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in California. This declaration emphasizes the state’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of their disabilities, are valued and enabled to contribute to their communities.

California has long been a leader in promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities, and this proclamation is a testament to ongoing efforts to enhance their quality of life. The state has taken a proactive stance in providing necessary resources to individuals with conditions such as Autism and Down Syndrome, ensuring they have the support needed to live and thrive within their communities.

In his proclamation, Governor Newsom highlighted several key initiatives that California has implemented over the past decade. These include making developmental services an entitlement and prioritizing home and community-based care over institutional settings.

Additionally, the state has increased compensation rates for direct service professionals, who play a crucial role in the daily lives of those with disabilities. This adjustment aims to retain and attract skilled workers in this vital sector.

Furthering these efforts, California’s Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) recently unveiled a draft of the Master Plan for Developmental Services: A Community Driven Vision. This comprehensive strategy seeks to leverage investments and strengthen the quality, access, and sustainability of services for all consumers and their families, irrespective of their demographic, geographic, or socioeconomic background.

The Master Plan also aims to integrate California’s developmental services more closely with other essential health and social systems, including education, housing, employment, transportation, and public safety.

Governor Newsom’s declaration underscores a whole-of-government approach, driven by community input and executed in partnership with the private sector. The goal is to establish a more equitable, person-centered, and data-driven developmental services system.

Through this collaborative and multi-sectoral effort, the state aspires to ensure that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can fully participate and flourish in all aspects of life.

As March 2025 unfolds, California will not only work on enhancing systems and services but also celebrate the invaluable contributions that individuals with developmental disabilities make to the Golden State. This month serves as a reminder of the diverse capabilities and the potential of all citizens, aiming to foster a more accepting and supportive environment for everyone.

Governor Newsom’s proclamation is a call to action for all Californians to acknowledge and appreciate the richness that people with developmental disabilities bring to our communities.