CER26-0142 • 2025

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Recognition Resolution of 2026

Enacted

This bill passed the Legislature and reached final enactment based on the latest official action.

Sponsor: Lewis George
Last action: 2026-03-31
Official status: Approved
Effective date: Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

The term 'community living' was included based on its relevance but there's no specific definition provided in the bill text.

Recognition for Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

This resolution recognizes March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in the District of Columbia to highlight the contributions and challenges faced by people with developmental disabilities.

What This Bill Does

Declares March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Washington, D.C.
Acknowledges that over 8 million Americans have developmental disabilities and they are part of every community in D.C.
Encourages residents to recognize the contributions of people with developmental disabilities and promote inclusive communities.
Highlights the importance of government agencies, organizations, and individuals working together to support those with developmental disabilities.

Who It Names or Affects

People with developmental disabilities living in Washington, D.C.
Community members and residents of Washington, D.C.
Government agencies and community organizations supporting people with developmental disabilities

Terms To Know

Developmental Disabilities: Conditions that affect a person's physical or mental development before they turn 22 years old.
Community Living: Living in the community rather than in institutions, with support to live independently and participate fully in society.

Limits and Unknowns

The resolution does not provide funding or specific programs but encourages awareness and inclusion.
It only applies for March 2026 and is a ceremonial recognition without legal requirements.

Bill History

2026-03-31 Council of the District of Columbia LIMS
Retained by the Council
2026-03-31 Council of the District of Columbia LIMS
Legislative Meeting
2026-03-31 Council of the District of Columbia LIMS
Approved with Resolution Number ACR26-0139
2026-03-30 Council of the District of Columbia LIMS
CER26-0142 Introduced by Councilmember Lewis George at Office of the Secretary

Official Summary Text

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Recognition Resolution of 2026

Current Bill Text

Read the full stored bill text

ENROLLED ORIGINAL
1

A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION

26-142

IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

March 31, 2026

To declare the month of March 2026 as “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month” in the
District of Columbia.

WHEREAS, over 8 million Americans have developmental disabilities and people with
developmental disabilities are our friends, family, and neighbors in every Ward of the District of
Columbia;

WHEREAS, throughout our nation’s history, many individuals with developmental
disabilities were hidden, segregated, or excluded from full participation in community life;

WHEREAS, decades of advocacy, civil rights protections, and community-based
supports have expanded opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to live, work,
learn, and participate fully in society;

WHEREAS, community living is about more than services or programs — it is about
belonging, choice, independence, and the opportunity to live a whole life;

WHEREAS, we believe that the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in
our workplaces, schools, and communities improves all of our lives;

WHEREAS, we encourage all residents to recognize the contributions of people with
developmental disabilities and to promote communities where everyone belongs;

WHEREAS, government agencies, community organizations, and individual and family
leaders work together to create accessible and high-quality education, housing, employment,
healthcare, recreational activities, and other community resources for people with developmental
disabilities and their families;

WHEREAS, the District of Columbia is committed to creating more opportunities for
economic self-sufficiency, belonging, and creative innovation by ensuring that residents with
disabilities have meaningful employment opportunities;

ENROLLED ORIGINAL
2

WHEREAS, people with developmental disabilities strengthen our workplaces, enrich
our neighborhoods, contribute to our economy, and help shape the future of the District of
Columbia;

WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month provides an opportunity to
reflect on our progress, recognize ongoing challenges, and reaffirm our commitment to policies
and practices that support full participation in community life; and

WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of the District of Columbia to continue fostering
communities that value inclusion, remove barriers, and ensure that all people have the
opportunity to pursue their goals and aspirations.

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Recognition
Resolution of 2026”.

Sec. 2. The Council declares the month of March 2026 as “Developmental Disabilities
Awareness Month”.

Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.