Washington, D.C. (January 31, 2025) – The National Organization on Disability (NOD) is deeply concerned about the recent policy changes enacted by the new administration under President Donald J. Trump, which threaten to undermine the progress made to enable people with disabilities to participate in the workforce on par with all Americans. NOD acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding recent pronouncements and is monitoring the situation closely.

For decades, NOD has worked tirelessly to champion policies and practices that break down barriers to employment for people with disabilities. However, recently announced policy changes—affecting hiring initiatives, remote work, and digital accessibility, among others—pose significant challenges to these efforts.

“Recent policy changes will have a profound and adverse impact on the disability community,” said NOD President and CEO Beth Sirull. “Americans with disabilities already face systemic obstacles to employment, with workforce participation rates significantly below the national average. We are concerned that newly announced changes to federal policy may inadvertently widen this gap for the 70+ million Americans with disabilities.”

NOD will continue our work to connect jobseekers with disabilities to companies that need talent to grow and thrive. As evidenced by our partnership with hundreds of organizations, employing Americans with disabilities yields bottom-line results by shoring up talent gaps and improving overall performance, which is critical in today’s competitive economy.

“Every individual deserves the opportunity to contribute their talents and skills to the workforce,” added Sirull. “This includes all people with disabilities, across every kind of disability, whether physical, neurological, mental health, disease or any other difference.  In fact, people with disabilities must develop resiliency and creativity to navigate problems on a daily basis. When Americans with disabilities bring our unique talents to businesses, we make companies stronger, which makes our economy and country stronger in turn.”

Importantly, NOD affirms that expanding employment opportunities for people with disabilities is a bipartisan issue. The organization has a robust history of working across the aisle; NOD has engaged with both Republican and Democratic presidential administrations since 1981 to inform public policy. We’re proud to have had President George H.W. Bush serve as our Honorary Chairman, and we are honored to have former Republican Governor of Pennsylvania Tom Ridge and former Democratic Congressman from Rhode Island Jim Langevin currently serving on NOD’s Board of Directors.

Disability touches nearly all Americans. NOD remains committed to advocating for people with disabilities and their family, friends, and caretakers regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, or other personal identification. The organization will continue to work with our wide network of partners, from corporations and foundations to nonprofits and academic institutions, together making progress towards a future where all people with disabilities can reach their full potential and strengthen our workforce, our communities, and our country.