I am writing to update you on activities in the U.S. House of Representatives that affect students with learning disabilities as they pursue postsecondary degrees. The House is going to vote on the College Opportunity and Affordability Act this week. The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) worked hard to ensure several provisions were added to the final bill language that will positively affect students with disabilities.

The current bill also includes many of the provisions NCLD worked tirelessly to champion on the Capitol Hill last year. NCLD is pleased the following provisions have been added to the final draft bill language:

• Develop a national technical assistance center to provide information and technical assistance for students with disabilities to improve the post-secondary recruitment retention and completion rates of such students.
• Implement a national study on higher education access and success for students with disabilities.
• Continue to fund programs developed to ensure students with disabilities receive a quality higher education and enhance these programs by focusing on: increasing effective transition practices, distance learning, accessibility of education and including universal design for learning practices.

NCLD believes it is essential for this version of the bill to pass with all of these provisions intact.

I ask you to take a few minutes of your time today to ensure students with learning disabilities are supported to ensure success in their postsecondary pursuits. Visit our Legislative Action Center to learn more about this important issue. Then send a message to your elected officials today!

Thank you for your continued support on behalf of those with learning disabilities. Your voice always makes a difference!

Sincerely,

Laura Kaloi
Director of Public Policy
National Center for Learning Disabilities