Families of medically fragile students often operate under an “illusion of competency,” assuming schools are equipped for emergencies. After the tragic loss of their son Landon, Julie Lazzara and Mark D’Aprile transformed their grief into a legislative roadmap for change. This session moves beyond one specific story to provide a scalable blueprint for disability advocacy in Arizona. Using the success of SB1383 and the current push for HB4043 as case studies, the founders of Landon’s Legacy Foundation will detail how to navigate the Arizona Legislature. Attendees will learn the importance of incremental “stepping stone” legislation, how to engage stakeholders for buy-in, and the practical mechanics of the Request to Speak (RTS) program to ensure the most vulnerable voices are heard.
Learning Outcomes
- Map the Legislative Path: Identify the key stages of an Arizona bill (Committee, Caucus, Floor) and determine the optimal times for public testimony to influence disability-related policy.
- Utilize Advocacy Technology: Demonstrate proficiency in the Arizona Request to Speak (RTS) system to register support and provide impactful comments on pending legislation.
- Apply Incrementalism to Policy: Explain why "stepping stone" bills (like HB4043) are often more effective than "all-or-nothing" proposals in gaining stakeholder buy-in and overcoming legislative hurdles.