Public Policy for the People: Tracking Policy Changes from D.C. to Georgia

Originally written: October 25, 2025

Hello advocates – how in the world are you!

My name is Charlie Miller, and I’m the Legislative Advocacy Director. I’m excited to bring you another edition of Public Policy for the People!

In this issue, we’ll take a look at the latest developments in the federal government shutdown, where the Georgia Developmental Disabilities Network currently stands, and what’s happening at the U.S. Department of Education. We’ll also gear up for another Georgia state legislative session under the Gold Dome. So get ready as we travel from Washington, D.C. to the Georgia State Capitol on our continued journey of advocacy.

The Latest on the Federal Shutdown and Federal Updates

Each year, Congress works to pass a federal budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which runs from October 1 through September 30. Earlier this year, when the President submitted the proposed budget to Congress, it included devastating cuts to Georgia’s Developmental Disabilities Network, including the University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs), Protection and Advocacy (P&A) agencies, and State Councils on Developmental Disabilities across the country.

These cuts would have eliminated vital partners such as the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University and the Institute on Human Development and Disability at the University of Georgia. Georgia’s disability community came together and advocated. As a result, funding was restored in the budget before the shutdown began.

However, the situation remains uncertain. The House and Senate have not yet reached an agreement on a final budget or passed a continuing resolution to keep the government open. As a result, the shutdown has created confusion and instability across many federal programs.

In the meantime, the Administration has begun making unilateral funding decisions, including major changes to the U.S. Department of Education. At one point, nearly 95% of the staff at the Department’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) faced layoffs. This caused tremendous concern in our community, as OSEP plays a critical role in ensuring that states provide proper support and oversight for individuals with disabilities.

A federal judge has since paused those layoffs, but the threat is not over. Georgia’s disability advocates should continue to contact their members of Congress and share how vital these programs are to their communities.

Join our advocacy efforts here: Special Education Advocacy Campaign. Your voice truly matters.

From the United States to the Peach State

Now that we’ve covered what’s happening at the federal level, let’s bring it back home to Georgia.

Our team has been traveling across the state, from Dahlonega and Rome down to Vidalia and Savannah, listening to advocates, meeting with legislators, and making sure our leaders understand the needs and priorities of the disability community.

As we prepare for the upcoming Georgia General Assembly session, we’re excited to announce the dates for our annual Legislative Advocacy Days.

The Georgia legislative session begins the second week of January and usually runs through late March, sometimes into early April. During that time, legislators gather under the Gold Dome to debate and decide key issues, including funding the state budget, such as NOW and COMP waivers, and passing new laws that affect everyday Georgians.

Save the Dates: 2026 Legislative Advocacy Days

Join us at the Georgia State Capitol to make your voice heard!

• January 28, 2026
• February 4, 2026
• March 4, 2026

Dates are tentative and may change depending on the legislative calendar.

These Advocacy Days are an incredible opportunity for individuals with disabilities, families, and allies to meet directly with lawmakers, share stories, and advocate for policies that create a more inclusive Georgia.

We hope to see you there, and remember, you don’t have to wait for Advocacy Days to make an impact. Reach out to your legislators anytime to remind them how important the disability community is to you and to our state.

Final Thoughts

Whether supporting funding in Washington or disability focused legislation, Georgians' collective efforts make a difference. Thank you for your continued engagement in the democratic process.

Stay tuned for more updates in Public Policy for the People, and keep up the great work in your communities. Together, we are building a stronger and more inclusive future.