Curran Signs Bill Creating County Disability Advisory Council

NASSAU COUNTY, NY — On Thursday, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran signed a bill into law that creates a disabilities advisory council for the county.

The 15-member Advisory Council On People With Disabilities will include members with disabilities and people representing organizations that serve and advocate for those with disabilities. It will provide recommendations to the county executive and legislature on how best to help Nassau's differently able residents.

“In Nassau County, we are committed to protecting the fundamental rights of people with disabilities, including supporting their self-sufficiency and equal participation in society," Curran said. "Today, we’re taking an important step to ensure that residents with disabilities have a voice in county government and a seat at the table to make their voices heard. I thank the dedicated advocates who made this effort possible, and I look forward to working together on behalf of the approximately 250,000 Nassau residents with disabilities.”

The new concil will review county policies, procedures, practices and programs, and will also recommend legislation. It will advise the county executive and the legislature about funding priorities and capital projects that would address the needs of Nassau's differently-abled residents. The council will hold regular meetings, to be determined by its members.

The members of the council will be appointed by the county executive and subject to approval by the legislature. Each appointment will be for three years, and will be a voluntary post without compensation. Five members of the council will be appointed on the reccomendation of the presiding officer of the County Legislature, and three by the Minority Leader. At least seven will have one or more disabilities, or will be representatives of disability advocacy groups.

“It’s a major milestone here for Nassau County,” said Gina Barbara, an advocate for people with disabilities. “This advisory committee will be a voice for our community where we can share concerns in a more effective manner.”