How The One Big, Beautiful Bill Impacts the Disability Community

By Tracy Waller, MPH, Esq.

On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed The One Big, Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) into law, after it narrowly passed both chambers of Congress. While most presidents bring changes that can be controversial, President Trump’s signing of the OBBB led to a major economic overhaul that will have long-term effects on the disability community. Vice President J.D. Vance cast the tie-breaking vote in the Senate to send the bill to the House of Representatives to be voted on. On July 3, 2025, the bill narrowly passed through the House with a vote of 218-214 and was signed into law on July 4, 2025.

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From Exclusion to Inclusion:

A Brief Legal History of Education for Students with Disabilities

When people hear the term “special education,” they often envision separate classrooms with specialized programs. However, at its core, education for students with disabilities is about ensuring that every student has access to the educational services and support they need to learn and thrive in the appropriate school setting.  

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Barriers to Participation in Faith-Based Communities

The intersection of faith and disability highlights the urgent need for more inclusive practices within religious spaces. Too often, people with disabilities are marginalized or unintentionally excluded from full participation in worship, leadership roles, and community life. Embracing accessibility as a core spiritual value not only affirms the dignity of every individual, but also strengthens the entire faith community. By reexamining traditions through the lens of inclusion, faith communities can better reflect the diverse body they are meant to serve.

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