Maryland Proclaims Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month March 2026

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Published March 1st, 2026

Detected March 17th, 2026

Summary

The Governor of Maryland has proclaimed March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. This proclamation highlights the state's commitment to inclusive environments and equal opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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What changed

Governor Wes Moore of Maryland has proclaimed March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. The proclamation emphasizes the state's commitment to ensuring inclusive environments, equal access, and decision-making autonomy for citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It also highlights Maryland's leadership in establishing an Office of Disability Employment Advancement and Policy to connect individuals with disabilities to employment opportunities.

This is a ceremonial proclamation and does not introduce new regulatory requirements or compliance obligations for regulated entities. It serves as a public statement of the state's values and ongoing commitment to supporting its citizens with developmental disabilities. No specific actions are required from compliance officers, and there are no associated penalties or deadlines.

Source document (simplified)

Access the full proclamation here. The full text of the proclamation is included below.

Proclamation from the Governor of the State of Maryland Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month March 2026

WHEREAS, We believe in a Maryland that recognizes the unlimited potential for all our citizens, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, to live, work, and thrive in our communities; and

WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize the importance of ensuring inclusive environments with equal access to communication, education, employment, housing, transportation, community integration, and public accommodations; and
WHEREAS, Maryland supports those with intellectual and developmental disabilities to make their own decisions, live where and with whomever they choose, and receive the support they need to be successful, productive, and independent community members; and
WHEREAS, The State of Maryland is proud to be a leader in opening pathways to work, wages, and wealth for all, including being one of the first states in the country to stand up an Office of Disability Employment Advancement and Policy, to connect Marylanders with disabilities with good-paying jobs and opportunities to serve; and
WHEREAS, We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity, access, and choice for Marylanders with intellectual and developmental disabilities; and
WHEREAS, We reaffirm our promise of a Maryland in which all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the knowledge, opportunity, and influence to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others, recognizing that our communities are stronger when everyone participates.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, WES MOORE, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND, do hereby proclaim March 2026 as DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH in Maryland, and do commend this observation to all of our citizens.