Transparency
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — On March 3-4, representatives from the Far Northern Regional Center (FNRC) and We Care A Lot Foundation traveled to the state capitol to participate in the Association of Regional Center Agencies (ARCA) Grassroots Day. The annual event provides an opportunity for self-advocates, service providers, and regional center representatives to engage with legislators and discuss policies affecting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
“Grassroots Day gives our legislators an opportunity to meet with their constituents about issues affecting our service system,” said Brandi Seaters, Executive Director of We Care A Lot Foundation. “It’s empowering for the people we serve to have their voices heard by those who have the power to make real change.”
During the two-day event, the FNRC delegation—comprising Melissa Gruhler (FNRC Executive Director), Tamra Panther (FNRC Associate Director), Jessica Nestelroad (FNRC Deaf and Hard of Hearing Specialist), Brandi Seaters, and self-advocates Amy Facca and William Moore—met with key state representatives. Discussions centered around five major legislative priorities: the Workforce Policy Bill (SB 422), the Seizure Rescue Medication Bill (AB 1172), the 40th Anniversary of the Lanterman Act Resolution, the Master Plan for Developmental Services, and the Blue Envelope Program (SB 664).
“Sharing my story with legislators was a powerful experience,” said William Moore, a CAC Board Member of FNRC and participant in the event. “We talked about the importance of services that help people like me live independently and be active in our communities.”
Advocates emphasized the urgency of addressing the critical shortage of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), who provide essential care for individuals with I/DD. “There’s a high turnover rate in DSP positions because the wages aren’t competitive,” said Tamra Panther. “We’re advocating for a sustainable career path for these professionals, ensuring stability for those who depend on their support.”
Another key issue discussed was the need for improved emergency medical intervention. Currently, individuals experiencing seizures in community care settings must wait for emergency responders to administer life-saving medication. “There’s a nasal spray that can stop seizures quickly, but under current laws, only nurses can administer it in certain settings,” said Panther. “AB 1172 would allow trained DSPs to provide this medication when necessary, preventing severe medical complications.”
For self-advocates like Amy Facca, the experience of meeting with lawmakers was both inspiring and affirming. “As someone with a disability, I never thought I’d have the opportunity to speak directly to people in government,” she said. “It made me realize that my voice matters.”
Grassroots Day also highlighted the importance of safety and accessibility through initiatives like the Blue Envelope Program. Designed to improve interactions between law enforcement and individuals with disabilities, the program would provide a standardized way for individuals to communicate their needs during police encounters.
The FNRC team met with representatives from the offices of Senator Megan Dahle, Assembly Member Heather Hadwick, Assembly Member James Gallagher, and Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire. Some meetings were held directly with the legislators, while others were conducted with their staff.
“We were able to see firsthand the impact of our advocacy,” said Seaters. “When we explained certain bills, some legislators were shocked to learn about the challenges our community faces. It was a reminder that our voices can influence policy.”
Grassroots Day continues to serve as a vital platform for self-advocates and disability rights organizations across California. “For anyone thinking about getting involved in advocacy, I’d say go for it,” said Moore. “Even if you can’t attend in person, writing letters and sharing your story can make a difference.”