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As 2025 concludes, the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities (GCPD) is pleased to highlight a year marked by progress, partnership, and tangible outcomes. Across Texas, we advanced accessibility, expanded opportunities, and amplified the voices of Texans with disabilities. These achievements were made possible through the dedication of our committee members, partners, and supporters across the state.
This year GCPD achieved significant milestones through research, community engagement, education, and recognition. Highlights include:
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Advanced Policy Work During the 2025 legislative session, we compiled and released our 2026-2027 Policy Recommendations Report to the 89th Legislature — a comprehensive summary of our efforts, findings, and recommendations. This has helped ensure that disability issues remain visible and prioritized in state policy planning.
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Reached Out Directly to Texans Across the State The committee held meetings in four Texas cities (Houston, Austin, Corpus Christi, and San Antonio) to engage with people with disabilities and solicit public comment (430 total participants). These quarterly meetings provided valuable community feedback and helped us better understand regional needs, challenges, and aspirations.
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Provided Educational Resources and Training We offered a series of training webinars on essential topics including accessibility standards, accessible agricultural careers (Agrability), emergency preparedness for people with disabilities, and entrepreneurship. These webinars help individuals, employers, and community organizations gain the knowledge they need to apply accessibility across various settings.
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Strengthened Grassroots Participation We engaged with Local Committees (LCs) statewide and developed an updated Local Committee Handbook to provide clear guidance for volunteers supporting their communities. Download a copy today and consider establishing a LC to ensure local representation.
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Recognized Leadership, Creativity, and Advocacy
- The 2025 Lex Frieden Employment Awards highlighted individuals and organizations setting a high standard for inclusive employment. The Martha Arbuckle Award was presented to the Pharr Police Department–Mental Health Unit for their community‑centered, compassionate programs — including the Mental Health Alliance, the Mind Matters Health Fair, and the Mental PAWS program — which together expanded access to services and strengthened support for people with disabilities.
- Through our statewide Disability Employment Awareness Month Poster Competition, we showcased creative talent from across Texas and raised public awareness about the contributions of people with disabilities in the workplace. The 2025 winning artwork was created by Jacob Martinez of Tyler, Texas. Additionally, a 2026 Disability Employment Awareness Month calendar featuring the artwork from previous winners is now available to order in print format. Contact [email protected] for more information.
- We honored Justin Dart Jr., a Texan and national disability rights leader widely regarded as the "Godfather" of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), through the commemoration of the Lead On! Transit Station at the Texas State Capitol. The event brought advocates, legislators, and community members together to recognize Dart’s tireless leadership and lasting impact on accessibility and civil rights for people with disabilities.
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Contributed to Research and Long-Term Solutions We published the 2025 Report on Vision Loss in Older Adults: Issues and Proposed Solutions, which explores strategies to help Texans aged 55 and older with significant vision loss live independently in their homes and communities. It identifies non-traditional partners to deliver core independent living services and recommends ways to integrate vision-loss support into other aging services programs, ensuring more comprehensive and accessible resources for older adults.
These accomplishments demonstrate our collective commitment to improving the lives of Texans with disabilities through practical solutions, collaborative engagement, and a vision for a more accessible Texas for all.
The Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities wishes you a joyful, safe, and restorative holiday season. We look forward to building on this momentum in 2026 and continuing the important work ahead.
 Order the 2026 National Disability Employment Awareness Month Calendar at [email protected].
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