Construction begins on Preston's Playground in Newark
Construction begins on Preston’s Playground

After almost three years of fundraising, construction has begun on Preston’s Playground, the handicap-accessible playground at the base of the Newark Reservoir. The playground, which will open before the end of the summer, will feature a rubber play surface and equipment that allows children using wheelchairs to play alongside their typical peers.

Kentucky flag
Judge strikes down Kentucky’s Medicaid work rules

A federal judge blocked Kentucky’s Medicaid work rule to require recipients to work, volunteer or receive job training as a condition of coverage. Three other states have received permission from the Trump administration to impose work requirements. Analysts predicted work requirements and the cost of monthly premiums would have significantly reduced the amount of people with coverage in Kentucky.

Members of the Louisiana delegation of the National Down Syndrome Society, practice their remarks while waiting to meet a Senate staffer.
Teaching parents of kids with disabilities to fight back

Partners in Policymaking classes around the country teach parents of children with developmental disabilities how to advocate for their children in school, how to talk to lawmakers and how to push for appropriate health care needs. It also teaches adults with disabilities about advocacy and public policy. Since the program began in 1987, it has graduated more than 27,000 individuals who have gone on to make larger impacts, including raising money to build accessible playgrounds and starting bullying prevention programs.

Gov. John Carney signed the state’s 2019 operating budget.
Gov. Carney signs FY19 budget

Gov. Carney signed Delaware’s $4.32 billion 2019 budget. The spending plan includes $1,000 salary increases for state workers and $4.6 million for care providers for individuals with disabilities. It also restores funding to aid seniors with prescription drug costs and the Meals on Wheels program.

Student loan debt
Teacher loan forgiveness among bills sent to Delaware governor to sign

The Senate passed a bill that allows the state to make loan payments for educators at high needs schools and those teaching subjects in high demand. The legislation will impact more than 100 teachers in Delaware.