Washington DC, District of Columbia – The Association of Advocates, Counselors and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD) proudly announces that former U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow has joined the organization’s advisory board. With more than four decades of public service and a distinguished career in the U.S. Senate championing healthcare, disability rights and mental health policy, Senator Stabenow brings invaluable leadership and advocacy experience to ACRD’s mission of supporting professionals in the disability field.

Throughout her tenure in the U.S. Senate (2001–2025) and previously in the House of Representatives (1997–2001), Senator Stabenow tirelessly advocated for expanding access to healthcare and strengthening Medicare, Medicaid, and disability-related programs. She was also instrumental in passing key provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which improved access to healthcare services for people with disabilities and played a central role in expanding mental health parity laws to ensure better coverage for behavioral health treatment.

One of Senator Stabenow’s most passionate legislative efforts was in mental health and disability services, an issue that is personal to her. Having witnessed firsthand the challenges families face in navigating healthcare and disability support systems, she has been deeply committed to removing barriers to care, increasing funding for mental health services, and advocating for comprehensive disability rights protections. Her leadership led to the passage of the Excellence in Mental Health Act, which significantly expanded access to community-based mental health and substance use treatment services nationwide.

“ACRD is honored to welcome Senator Stabenow to our advisory board,” said Rachel Buck, executive director of ACRD. “Her legacy of public service, particularly in disability and mental health advocacy, aligns perfectly with our mission.

Buck added that her guidance will be invaluable in expanding education, training, and professional development opportunities for disability professionals and advancing policy discussions supporting individuals with disabilities.

As a lifelong champion for healthcare equity, Senator Stabenow’s role on ACRD’s advisory board will further strengthen the organization’s ability to serve as a leader in disability representation and professional education, Buck noted “She will help shape strategic initiatives, engage with policymakers, and provide expertise on advancing disability advocacy at the national level.”

Senator Stabenow’s appointment is a historic moment for the disability community. It marks one of the first times a former U.S. Senator has joined the advisory board of a national professional organization focused on disability representation. ACRD looks forward to working alongside her to drive meaningful policy change and enhance the impact of disability professionals across the country.

ACRD provides networking opportunities, continuing legal education (CLE) courses, and industry resources to ensure professionals in the disability field are equipped with the knowledge and tools to serve their clients effectively.

For more information about ACRD and its initiatives, visit www.acrd.org.

Contact:
Rachel Buck
ACRD Executive Director
rachelb@acrd.org