At Raising Special Kids, we stand in full support of Arizona Senate Bill 1435 aimed at holding public entities, including schools, accountable for negligence, particularly concerning the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals, including children with disabilities. This legislation is a crucial step towards ensuring justice and protection for those who need it most.
Our organization firmly believes that no individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, should be subjected to harm or neglect due to failures in oversight and due diligence by public entities. Cases such as the Gallagher and others underscore the urgent need for reform in our laws to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
By advocating for changes in public policy, we aim to create a safer and more equitable environment for all members of our community, especially those who are most vulnerable. We support the proposed modifications to the legislation, including limiting immunity exemptions, increasing the standard of proof, and implementing a sunset clause for periodic review.
Furthermore, we encourage our supporters and community members to engage with their state legislators and express their support for this bill. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and ensure that the rights and safety of individuals with disabilities are prioritized and protected by law. To find your legislators, visit https://www.azleg.gov/findmylegislator/. You can also register your opinion on the bill by using the Request To Speak system.
Raising Special Kids remains committed to advocating for accountability, transparency, and safety in public entities, and we urge lawmakers to swiftly pass this critical legislation for the betterment of our society as a whole.