The Autism Society of Maine is urging our community to speak up. We need legislators and department leaders to maintain strong protections against restraint and seclusion and to prioritize evidence-based supports, trained staff, and accessible services for children with disabilities.

ASM community members can act by:

• Contacting your legislators to share concerns about weakening Chapter 33 protections.
• Asking DOE and DHHS to invest in proactive, community-based supports rather than crisis-driven practices.
• Sharing lived experience to help leaders understand the real-world impact of these changes on children and families.

 

Together, we can advocate for policies that protect children, strengthen supports, and uphold the dignity and safety of every student in Maine.