In Wake of Recent Federal Action, Shapiro Administration Reaffirms Commitment to Serving and Protecting Pennsylvanians with Disabilities

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August 19, 2026 - Pittsburgh, PA

In Wake of Recent Federal Action, Shapiro Administration Reaffirms Commitment to Serving and Protecting Pennsylvanians with Disabilities

In July, the Trump Administration announced its DOJ would no longer rely on a landmark SCOTUS decision protecting an individual's right to live and receive services in the community, not an institution.

In Pennsylvania, Governor Shapiro is standing by individuals with disabilities and ensuring they have a say in where they live, work and receive support.

The Shapiro Administration today reaffirmed its commitment to ensure the choices and freedoms of Pennsylvanians with disabilities are protected so they can live, work, and participate fully in their chosen community in the wake of recent federal actions that threaten decades of progress.

In 1999, the United States Supreme Court decided Olmstead v. L.C. - a case that questioned how states comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Olmstead decision affirmed that unjustified segregation of people with disabilities is a form of discrimination under the ADA and that people with disabilities should have opportunities to receive services in community settings as an alternative to institutional settings when appropriate, consistent with their needs and choices, and when such services can be reasonably provided. Right now, approximately 200,000 older adults and people with intellectual and physical disabilities - the highest in Pennsylvania history - receive disability services in their homes and communities.

However, on July 20, 2026, the Trump Administration announced that the U.S. Department of Justice would no longer rely on longstanding Olmstead guidance when enforcing the ADA. Although this action does not change the law or overturn the Olmstead decision, this decision weakens the federal government's commitment to protecting an individual's choice to live and receive services in the community and could put access to disability services at risk.

Speakers:

• Steve Suroviec, President and CEO of the Achieva Family of Organizations
• Juliet Marsala, PA DHS Deputy Secretary for Long-Term Living
• Kristin Ahrens, PA DHS Deputy Secretary for Developmental Programs
• Rep. Jessica Benham
• Josie Badger, Executive Director, Governor's Commission on People with Disabilities
• Libby Powers, disability rights advocate

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