- The ARC - California Edition -

Educating Legislators

“Legislation” is one of the formal methods by which the people of our country exercises their power and function of making rules. “Legislators” are representatives charged with a responsibility to approve or disapprove proposals for new rules.

Legislators come in many forms and shapes. Some are very familiar with the problems and concerns of persons with developmentally disabilities, but many can not even pronounce the words. We have just recently experienced an election which has resulted in a number of new faces entering our “state legislature”. This is the body that will, for the next few years, approve or disapprove new LAWS within our state.

To assist with our new legislators orientation, the Arc-California strongly suggests that you provide personal input to the new members of the legislature. You might write your senator or assemblyperson a letter expressing your personal experiences and opinion about the programs and funding related to the lives of persons with developmental disabilities. Also, it would be appropriate to educate them about how mental retardation, brain injury, and other disabilities can be prevented. 

Locate the name and state capitol room number of your own personal representative from the lists on these pages. Send your letter to: 

(Insert name), 
State Capitol, 
Room (Insert number), 
Sacramento, CA., 95814

Legislative deadlines: