GOVERNORÕS COUNCIL ON DISABILITY GCD NEWSLETTER Volume 12, Issue 1 February 2026 LEGISLATIVE SESSION UNDERWAY: WAYS TO GET INVOLVED by Claudia Browner The legislative session is currently underway, marking a critical time for shaping state policy and funding priorities. Budget hearings have already begun, giving lawmakers the opportunity to review proposals and consider investments that impact communities across the state. As the session moves forward, public participation remains an essential part of the legislative process. Citizens, advocates, and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engage as decisions are made that affect programs, services, and resources statewide. There are several meaningful opportunities to get involved this session. The Legislative Education Project (LEP) offers tools and training to help individuals understand how the legislature operates and how to effectively communicate with elected officials. These resources are designed to support both new and experienced advocates in making their voices heard. Learn more on the LEP website. In addition, Disability Rights Legislative Day (DRLD) provides a focused opportunity for people with disabilities, family members, service providers, and advocates to engage directly with policymakers. Participants can learn about key issues, share lived experiences, and help elevate disability-related priorities during the legislative session. DRLD will be held February 25 at the State Capitol. Visit the DRLD website to learn more. With budget discussions underway and legislation advancing, now is the time to engage. Attending hearings, participating in educational opportunities, and connecting with legislators are impactful ways to take part in the democratic process and help shape policies that strengthen our communities. Inside this Issue: Page 1: Legislative Session Underway: Ways to get involved Page 2: Senate Accessibility Efforts Missouri Capitol Police Resources for Capitol Visitors Page 3: Seeing Beyond Sight: Honoring Low Vision Awareness Month Page 4: Apply Now! MO-YLF 2026 Now Recruiting: 2026 Volunteer Staff Page 5: Navigating new tax benefits for seniors in Missouri in 2026 Page 6: February is National Library LoversÕ Month Wolfner Library Services Page 7: Legislative Education Project (LEP) webinars Disability Rights Legislative Day (DRLD) Upcoming Events disability.mo.gov/gcd 573-751-2600 gcd@oa.mo.gov GCD Newsletter Page 2 SENATE ACCESSIBILITY EFFORTS by Laura Mueth As many may know, the House of Representatives has made participating in their proceedings accessible to everyone. The Senate is not as accessible as it could be. Senator Mike Moon has been working to change this. Again this year, he filed a resolution to modify a Senate rule to allow for an audio and video feed of Senate proceedings. Recognizing the need for a collective effort, a group of statewide organizations working with people with disabilities have joined together to educate senators regarding the need for overall accessibility of senate proceedings. This includes debate of bills on the Senate floor, bill hearings, and online submission of bill testimony. Group members designed an educational handout to share with senators. Members of the group spent time in December 2025 and January 2026 meeting with senators and senate staff to advocate for better accessibility at the Senate. The group has the goal of educating every senator on this concern. Some progress has already been made. Senate Minority Leader Doug Beck mentioned some of the information shared with him during a Senate Minority Caucus press conference on January 22. Senator Moon and Senator Steven Roberts will allow submission of online testimony for committees they chair. Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger discussed the need for video recording of Senate work in a January 26 news story shared with various television stations. The goal is that with the commitment of these elected officials and disability focused organizations, the Senate will become as accessible as the House. MISSOURI CAPITOL POLICE RESOURCES FOR CAPITOL VISITORS by Chief Zim Schwartze, Missouri Capitol Police The Missouri Capitol Police (MCP) have several important resources available. They have access to Ōmedical bagsÕ for basic medical assistance and a procedure in place to work closely with our local medical emergency responders to ensure a prompt response. MCP has two trained and certified K-9 Teams who are trained in explosive detection. In addition, one K-9 Team can search for missing and lost persons. MCP has worked closely with the stateÕs facilities staff to continue improving access for those with limited mobility, making entrance/exit to the Capitol building easier. The Missouri Capitol Police are always willing to assist visitors to our beautiful state Capitol. SEEING BEYOND SIGHT: HONORING LOW VISION AWARENESS MONTH by Claudia Browner February is Low Vision Awareness Month, a time to raise understanding about low vision and celebrate the independence, resilience, and contributions of people who experience vision loss. Low vision affects millions of individuals and looks different for everyoneŃyet it often goes unseen and misunderstood. Low vision isnÕt the same as total blindness. ItÕs a spectrum that can include blurred vision, blind spots, reduced peripheral vision, or difficulty seeing in low lightŃeven with glasses or contacts. Because many visual challenges arenÕt obvious, people with low vision often face barriers that others may not realize exist. Reading a menu, crossing a busy street, recognizing faces, or using digital devices may require adaptive tools and thoughtful design. ThatÕs where awareness matters. Advances in technology have expanded opportunities for people with low vision to live and work independently. Tools such as magnification devices, screen readers, high-contrast materials, improved lighting, and orientation aids such as the white cane are not symbols of limitationŃthey are tools of empowerment that promote confidence and self-sufficiency. The white cane is more than a mobility aidŃitÕs a symbol of independence, confidence, and communication. For those who use it, the cane provides vital information about the environment, helping detect obstacles, changes in terrain, and safe pathways. For the rest of us, itÕs a clear signal to slow down, offer space, and be mindful. Awareness fosters respect: giving right of way, keeping pathways clear, and avoiding distractions when someone is navigating with a cane can make a meaningful difference. Awareness is only the first step, but itÕs action that creates positive change. Technology is only as effective as the accessibility behind it, and thoughtful choices such as readable fonts, clear signage, good lighting, and accessible digital content help create environments where everyone can thrive. Low Vision Awareness Month reminds us that accessibility and inclusion should be part of daily life, not limited to one month. When we design spaces, services, and communication with accessibility in mind, we create environments where everyone can participate fully. This February, letÕs commit to seeing beyond assumptions, valuing independence, and supporting a community where people with low vision are recognized, respected, and empowered. Missouri Rehabilitation Services for the Blind (RSB), a division of the Department of Social Services, supports individuals who are blind or have low vision by providing training, resources, and services that promote independence, employment, and full participation in community life. If you or someone you know is experiencing vision loss, please contact the agency for more information about their programs and services. GCD Newsletter Page 3 APPLY NOW! MO-YLF 2026 by Reece Ellis As the new year gets underway, planning is already in full swing for the 2026 Missouri Youth Leadership Forum (MO-YLF). Applications for this unique, week-long experience have been open since November, and we want to ensure that eligible students and their families have the information they need to apply before the March deadline. The Forum will take place July 14Š18, 2026, on the University of Missouri campus in Columbia. MO-YLF is designed to help high school students with disabilities (ages 16Š21) transition into adulthood with confidence. Each year, 30 delegates are selected to participate in a curriculum built on five core pillars: & Leadership & Advocacy: Developing self-determination and participating in a mock legislative session at the State Capitol. & History & Culture: Connecting with mentors and peers to explore the legacy of the disability rights movement. & Career & College Readiness: Practical workshops to prepare for higher education, employment, and life after high school. & Community & Friendship: Networking with young leaders from across the state and building lifelong support systems. & Recreation & Fun: Experiencing campus life through adaptive sports, social events, and a talent show. We understand that for many students, this may be their first time away from home. To provide peace of mind for families, MO-YLF provides 24-hour on-site nursing care and overnight dorm supervision. Thanks to our generous sponsors, the entire programŃincluding housing and mealsŃis offered at no cost to selected delegates. The application window is currently open, and the deadline to apply is March 16, 2026. Students, parents, and educators can find application materials and more information at disability.mo.gov/gcd/ylf NOW RECRUITING: 2026 VOLUNTEER STAFF While delegates are applying, we are also building our 2026 Volunteer Staff team! We are looking for passionate individuals Ńespecially MO-YLF alumniŃto lead, mentor, and support our delegates on campus this July. If you are a professional in the disability community, a teacher, a college student, or a former delegate, we encourage you to apply. This is a rewarding way to grow professionally while making a direct impact. & Staff Training & Arrival: July 13, 2026 & Staff Application Deadline: April 1, 2026 & Apply to Volunteer: disability.mo.gov/gcd/ylf/volunteer.htm If you have questions about MO-YLF, upcoming informational webinars, or other youth programs, please contact Reece Ellis at reece.ellis@oa.mo.gov or 573-751-2600. Please help us share this leadership opportunity with the students and colleagues in your network! GCD Newsletter Page 4 NAVIGATING NEW TAX BENEFITS FOR MISSOURI SENIORS IN 2026 by Reece Ellis As the 2026 tax filing season begins, Missouri seniors may notice significant changes to their returns. Recent federal legislation and updated state laws have introduced new ways for taxpayers age 65 and older to reduce their taxable income. Here is a clear breakdown of what you need to know. Starting with the 2025 tax year, a new federal tax provision inside the law now known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) allows eligible seniors to claim a "bonus" deduction. Eligible individuals can deduct up to $6,000. For married couples filing jointly where both spouses are 65 or older, the total deduction is $12,000. To be eligible you must turn 65 on or before December 31, 2025. Unlike many other tax breaks, you can claim this $6,000 bonus even if you do not itemize your deductions. This benefit is designed for middle-income households. The deduction begins to decrease if your income (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) exceeds $75,000 for individuals or $150,000 for married couples. It is completely phased out for individuals earning over $175,000 or couples earning over $250,000. This new $6,000 bonus does not replace the existing standard deduction; instead, it is added on top of it. For 2025, here is how the totals compare for those who do not itemize: Filing Status (Age 65+) Standard Deduction Additional Senior Deduction New ŅBonusÓ Deduction Total Potential Deduction There is often confusion regarding whether Social Security benefits are taxed. The answer depends on whether you are looking at your federal or state return. At the Federal Level, Social Security benefits may be partially taxed if your "combined income" (your adjusted gross income plus half of your Social Security benefits) exceeds $25,000 for individuals or $32,000 for couples. However, the new $6,000 bonus deduction is expected to help many retirees stay below the threshold where their benefits become taxable. Since 2024, Missouri law has become much simpler. Social Security benefits are 100% exempt from Missouri state income tax, regardless of your income level or filing status. This means while you might owe federal tax on a portion of your benefits, you will not owe Missouri state tax on them. If you use tax-preparation software, the program should automatically flag your eligibility once you enter your date of birth. If you are preparing a paper return (Form 1040 or 1040-SR), be sure to check the "65 or older" box and include accurate Social Security numbers for all filers to ensure the IRS calculates your deduction correctly. If you are looking for assistance with preparing your tax return, please visit the National Disability InstituteÕs website for a listing of free tax preparation services for people with disabilities, low-income individuals and families and seniors, including the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not professional tax advice. If you have specific questions about preparing and filing your taxes or need personalized assistance, please consult a tax professional. GCD Newsletter Page 5 GCD Newsletter Page 6 FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL LIBRARY LOVERSÕ MONTH by Dara Sailler, Office of Equal Opportunity February isnÕt just a month full of love for couples and families. ItÕs also when we celebrate National Library LoversÕ Month! Because of the shift to digital resources, libraries are often overlooked. Libraries provide vital community resources like free internet, job help, literacy programs, safe public spaces, and social connection. You can often find free courses, skill development, community activities, music and streaming services, and a quiet place to study. Of course, donÕt forget about the books! If physical books arenÕt your cup of tea, many libraries offer e-books and audio books as well as TV shows and music digitally. The best part of libraries is itÕs still a free resource for your community! This February, try and visit your local library. You can support them in many ways. One way is to sign up for a library card. They are of no cost but show that libraries are still a vital part of every community. Sign up for Friends of the Library or even just shop their book sales. Many times, there are hidden gems for very little money. Happy reading! WOLFNER LIBRARY SERVICES by Kim Hicks, Office of Equal Opportunity Wolfner Library is a free library service for Missourians of all ages who are unable to read standard print materials due to low vision, blindness, physical disability or reading disability. & There is no charge for the following: & Loan of audio, Braille and large print books and magazines & Loan of digital audio players & Audiobook downloads available 24 hours a day through the website & Accessible newspapers and magazines & Free shipping through the United States Postal Service 9,000+ Missourians use the Wolfner Library. The collection includes fiction, nonfiction, audio, Braille, large print, as well as digital playback machines. For more information visit Wolfner Library Services DOLLY PARTONÕS IMAGINATION LIBRARY OF MISSOURI by Kim Hicks, Office of Equal Opportunity Did you know children can receive free books through the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education - Office of Childhood and Dolly PartonÕs Imagination Library? Dolly PartonÕs Imagination Library is a book gifting program that mails free, high quality, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five, regardless of their familyÕs income. In order to receive books, a parent or guardian must register their child on the Imagination Library national website. Books are mailed directly to the homes of registered children every month. To get started, scan the QR code, and start enjoying free books! GCD Newsletter Page 7 Legislative Education Project (LEP) Webinars Empower yourself to advocate for public policies that impact individuals with disabilities in Missouri. Register for one of the upcoming, free LEP webinars at tinyurl.com/GCD-LEP Learn more about the program on the LEP website UPCOMING EVENTS Check out these upcoming disability-related conferences and events! Click on the links to learn more or register. February 22, 2026 Disability Awareness Convention, hosted by The Arya Foundation, Chesterfield February 25, 2026 Disability Rights Legislative Day, Jefferson City May 27 - 29, 2026 Missouri Rehabilitation Association (MRA) Conference, Lake Ozark July 14 - 18, 2026 Missouri Youth Leadership Forum, Columbia If you know of other events you would like us to share with the disability community, please contact our office. DISABILITY RIGHTS LEGISLATIVE DAY February 25, 2026 Missouri State Capitol, Jefferson City Register now at drld.org To learn about more about Disability Rights Legislative Day (DRLD) and what to expect at the rally, sign up now for a free DRLD Training webinar on February 10. STAY CONNECTED Subscribe to the GCD Newsletter Sign up for the Legislative Update Sign up to receive GCD email updates GCD LinkTree disability.mo.gov/gcd 573-751-2600 gcd@oa.mo.gov