Angela Fletcher

Written Testimony in Full Support of HB1215 – “Grace’s Law” Relative to Supporting the Preferred Method of Communication of an Individual with Developmental Disabilities Dear Members of the Family Law Committee, I am writing today as a mother in full support of HB1215, known as “Grace’s Law,” which affirms the right of individuals with developmental disabilities to use their preferred method of communication in all settings—not just at home, but anywhere they go. I am speaking not only for my own child, but also advocating for others in the same situation who are unable to do so—now and in the future. As a mother, I know that communication is not limited to spoken words. Individuals who are developmentally disabled have thoughts, feelings, opinions, and needs just like anyone else. When a person cannot vocalize those thoughts, it does not mean they do not exist. Denying or dismissing a person’s preferred method of communication is, in effect, denying their freedom of speech and their right to equality. Alternate forms of communication must be recognized as valid and equal to vocal speech. These include, but are not limited to: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) techniques and devices Independent use of letterboards and independent typing-based communication Sign language and other non-verbal gestural systems Speech-generating devices and other assistive technologies The ask of this bill is small, but the impact will be enormous—not only for my family, but for countless others across our state. When my daughter was young, she was diagnosed with Atypical Rett Syndrome. Along with the developmental declines that come with this diagnosis, she experienced a seizure. About a month later, my daughter went from saying phrases like “see puppies” and “kitties” to only being able to say “mummummum.” Overnight, her ability to verbally ask for what she wanted and needed disappeared. Like many parents, I adapted. My daughter began using gestures and icon- and picture-based communication systems. These methods allowed her to express herself, but they were often not recognized or respected by others. I repeatedly heard people say, “Use your words,” even when there were no spoken words available to her. Each time, she was silenced again. As she grew, she began communicating through gestalt language—phrases taken from movies, television shows, and others around her. While this was another way for her to communicate, it required patience and understanding from those listening. Too often, that patience was not given. As time has gone on, her speech has continued to decline. Today, she relies on her preferred methods of communication: an AAC device, icon- and picture-based systems, and gestures such as yes/no responses and pointing. These are how she tells us what she wants, what she needs, and who she is. It is critically important to me, as a mother, that these forms of communication are recognized and supported in group homes, schools, and public institutions within the state service delivery system. Communication access should not depend on where my daughter is or who is around her. This is not about special treatment—it is about dignity, equality, and freedom. I am a mother to a daughter who deserves to be heard. HB1215 ensures that individuals like my daughter are not ignored, dismissed, or silenced simply because they communicate differently. “Grace’s Law” affirms a basic human right: the right to communicate. I urge you to fully support HB1215. Respectfully submitted, Angela Fletcher Mother, Advocate, and Legislative Liaison