HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvanians with disabilities and autism will see expanded legal protections and representation in state government following three executive orders signed Wednesday by Governor Josh Shapiro.
What This Means for You
- New protections limit how the state collects and uses personal data for people with disabilities
- A new advisory commission will give individuals with disabilities a direct role in shaping state policy
- Existing oversight bodies are being updated to continue advocacy and compliance with federal law
The orders take effect immediately and are designed to strengthen nondiscrimination protections, improve data privacy safeguards, and expand representation for people with disabilities within state decision-making.
New Protections and Oversight
One order reaffirms Pennsylvania’s nondiscrimination policy — meaning state agencies must continue to provide equal access to services — while adding updated privacy protections governing how personal data is collected and used.
The order limits data collection to only what is necessary and requires agencies to follow proper procedures when handling sensitive information, including in health care and research settings.
State officials said the change comes amid broader concerns about how personal data tied to disabilities could be used or shared.
“Far too often, decisions have been made about people with disabilities, but not with them,” Shapiro said. “These new executive orders that I signed today will not only improve services for Pennsylvanians with disabilities, they’ll also give this community a real seat at the table.”
New Advisory Commission
A second executive order creates a Governor’s Advisory Commission on People with Disabilities, which will include up to 30 volunteer members appointed by the governor.
Members will include individuals with disabilities, family members, and subject-matter experts. The group will recommend policy changes, coordinate with government agencies, and help communicate available services and resources statewide.
The administration is currently accepting applications for the commission’s executive director position.
Reestablishing the Disabilities Council
A third order reauthorizes the Developmental Disabilities Council, an independent body required under federal law to advise the governor and advocate for people with developmental disabilities.
The council will continue developing a statewide plan and promoting policies aimed at improving independence, employment opportunities, and community inclusion.
Broader Investment Context
State officials said the executive orders build on recent investments in disability services, including funding increases for job training, special education, and home- and community-based support programs.
According to the administration, Pennsylvania has reduced its emergency waiting list for disability services by 31 percent since early 2024 and expanded workforce support for care providers.
Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh said the actions reflect ongoing demand from families and advocates seeking improved access to services.
“To make change you need two things: resources and will,” Arkoosh said, citing continued efforts to expand support systems and ensure representation for people with disabilities.
Next Steps
The executive orders are now in effect, with state agencies expected to begin implementing policy changes and establishing the new advisory commission in the coming months.
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