TASH

The U.S. Department of Education’s top special education official is stepping down as major changes to federal special education oversight move forward.

The departure comes as OSERS staff are being relocated to the Department of Health and Human Services under a new interagency partnership—raising questions among disability advocates about leadership, coordination, and what these changes could mean for students with disabilities, families, and educators.

Stay informed as these changes continue to unfold: https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2026/09/10/nations-special-ed-chief-abruptly-resigns-as-education-department-transfers-get-underway/32167/

A recent EEOC settlement highlights the importance of reasonable accommodations and accessible workplace technology.

American Airlines will pay $200,000 to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit involving a blind employee who requested screen reader software or reassignment as a reasonable accommodation.

Read the full EEOC news release: https://www.eeoc.gov/newsroom/american-airlines-pay-200000-eeoc-disability-discrimination-suit-following-termination

Jessica Bacon's book talk, Seeking Curricular Inclusion, is tomorrow. Attendance is free. Learn more and register here: https://tash.org/event/seeking-curricular-inclusion-unpacking-the-links-between-segregation-low-expectations-and-the-myth-of-independence/

Today, on International Day of Sign Languages, we recognize the essential role sign languages play in advancing access, communication, and inclusion.

Sign language access helps ensure Deaf people can fully participate in education, employment, community life, and the decisions that affect them.

Let's continue building a world where communication access is recognized as a right – and everyone has the opportunity to be heard.

Join the Medicaid Advocacy Project for an introductory webinar, Medicaid 101. Nicole Jorwic will discuss how the program works, eligibility, wait lists, Home and Community-Based Services, the recent cuts and new work requirements. Learn more and register here: https://tash.org/event/medicaid-101-understanding-medicaid-and-waiting-lists/

New Department of Labor rules will significantly reduce disability affirmative action requirements for federal contractors, including eliminating the 7% disability utilization goal and required disability self-identification and related data collection.

What do these changes mean for federal contractors and disability inclusion efforts?

Read more: https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/ofccp-finalizes-sweeping-changes-to-1250596

Today is the last day to register for the 2026 TASH Conference at the Early Bird rate. Check out the complete Conference schedule and register here: https://2026tashconference.sched.com/info

Join Dr. Jessica Bacon for a talk on her new book, "Attaining a Just Future: Disability Studies Examines Curriculum and Transition for Students Labeled with Intellectual Disability". Attendance is free. Learn more and register here: https://tash.org/event/seeking-curricular-inclusion-unpacking-the-links-between-segregation-low-expectations-and-the-myth-of-independence/

New legislation introduced in Congress aims to make in-home care more accessible and affordable for older adults and people with disabilities.

The Medicare at Home Act would add a personal care benefit to Medicare Part B, helping eligible individuals receive assistance with daily activities while continuing to live independently at home.

The proposal would complement existing Medicare home health benefits and Medicaid home-based care coverage.

View the Medicare at Home Act press release on the House side: https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7197