🧠 Autism & Disability Services
- Proposed Shift of Special Education Oversight:
President Trump announced plans to transfer oversight of services for students with disabilities from the Department of Education to the Department of Health and Human Services. Critics argue this move could undermine the enforcement of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and negatively impact the education of 7.5 million students with disabilities. - Concerns Over Department of Education Shutdown:
The Trump administration’s executive order to dismantle the Department of Education has raised concerns about the potential loss of federal oversight and funding for students with disabilities. Advocates warn that this could lead to violations of students’ rights and reduced access to quality education.
Source: NPR
🏳️🌈 LGBTQIA+ Rights
- Proposed Defunding of LGBTQ+ Youth Suicide Hotline:
A draft budget from the Department of Health and Human Services proposes terminating federal funding for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services. This program has provided crisis support to over 1.2 million individuals since its inception in 2022. Mental health professionals and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups express concern that eliminating these services could endanger thousands of LGBTQ+ youths.
Source: The Hill
🦠 HIV/AIDS & Public Health
- Proposed Cuts to HIV Programs:
The Trump administration’s budget proposal includes significant cuts to HIV-related programs, such as the elimination of funding for dental services, AIDS Education and Training Centers, and demonstration programs under the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program. These cuts could impact access to care for people living with HIV, particularly those covered by Medicaid.
Source: KFF
👴 SSI, Disability, Medicare/Medicaid
- Concerns Over Disability Benefits:
A San Francisco HIV survivor reports that his disability benefits, including Medicare, have been cut, and he has been informed that he owes over $200,000 to the Social Security Administration. He believes these issues are related to recent budget cuts under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Source: ABC San Francisco
