Legislative Engagement

Why It Matters

Indiana’s state legislators shape policies that affect disability services, Medicaid waivers, and funding decisions across the state. Building respectful, informed relationships helps ensure the experiences of individuals receiving services are understood in the policymaking process.

Ongoing communication — not just during times of concern — leads to stronger outcomes.

When to Reach Out
Consider connecting with your legislators:

• At the beginning of a legislative session

• When waiver or policy changes are proposed

• During budget discussions

• To introduce yourself and share your experience

Relationship-building is more effective than one-time outreach.

How to Connect
Use Indiana’s official tool to find your State Senator and State Representative, then reach out with a brief email or phone call introducing yourself, your district, and your connection to disability services. If possible, request a short meeting to share a real-world example of how policies affect individuals receiving services, and offer practical, solution-oriented suggestions. Afterward, follow up with a thank-you and let them know you are available as a resource for future questions or input.

Find your legislator tool: Click here 

Effective Engagement
Effective legislative engagement is respectful, focused, and solution-oriented. When communicating with elected officials, keep your message clear and concise, center the experiences of individuals receiving services, and provide specific examples whenever possible. Nonpartisan, fact-based communication builds credibility and strengthens long-term relationships. Offering practical suggestions alongside lived experience helps policymakers better understand both the challenges and potential solutions within Indiana’s disability service system.

Your Voice Strengthens Policy
Thoughtful civic engagement helps ensure disability services remain person-centered, sustainable, and responsive across Indiana.