Foundation's Legislative Work
Since 2018, MoDE Foundation has supported the legislative advocacy work of Missouri Disability Empowerment (MoDE). The organizations partnered together to empower individuals with disabilities through grassroots advocacy and by promoting inclusivity. In the fall of 2022, MoDE Foundation took over the legislative advocacy work of MoDE.
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MoDE Foundation is represented by one registered lobbyist in Jefferson City, as well as many volunteer MoDE Foundation advocates We believe anyone can advocate and should advocate. Often it is even a family affair!
Updates
2022 Legislative Update
Missouri's 2022 legislative session ended May 13. While our main two main priorities (Burden of Proof and Parental Consent on IEPs) didn't cross the finish line, we were thrilled with the progress they made as first year bills. The language for both bills passed out of the House with bipartisan support. The language from HB2095 (Abuse Investigations in Schools & Parental Consent for Corporal Punishment) did pass and is on its way to the Governor's desk. Many MoDE families came and testified in support of HB2095.
How a Bill Becomes a Law
We send out regular updates on our legislative priorities through email and our Facebook page, but the legislative process can be very confusing. What happens after a bill is voted out of committee? Does it become a law when the entire House votes in favor of it? This "simple" chart outlines the path a bill takes to become a law. You can use it to locate where our bills are and what steps they still have to complete.
Legal Advocacy Fund
MoDE Foundation has established a legal advocacy fund. We recognize that IEP meetings are complicated and know that parents often benefit from the support of an advocate at these meetings. Sometimes a lawyer might even be needed. We want to support families as they advocate for their children's education by providing grants for advocates or lawyers. Not only can parents apply for a grant, but there is also information about mediation and a list of advocates & lawyers in MO who will support parents with issues related to special education.
MoDE Foundation
While this site focuses on MoDE Foundation's legislative disability advocacy, the organization has many other advocacy projects. From educating parents to providing grants, MoDE Foundation empowers those with disabilities and promotes inclusion.