HARRISBURG — The Arc of Pennsylvania honors a legislator annually who has demonstrated leadership to address the needs of Pennsylvanians with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. This year, The Arc selected state Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20) and state Rep. Mauree Gingrich (R-101).

Baker has been an ardent and vocal supporter of legislation that has advanced The Arc’s efforts. Among the bills the organization recognized Baker for this legislative session was the creation of the Pennsylvania ABLE Act which allows people with disabilities to save money for needed living expenses, without losing vital benefits like Medicaid.

Baker has been actively involved with the ongoing #IWantToWork campaign and continuously listens to people with disabilities, their families, their caregivers and advocates to make sure their needs are being met in Harrisburg.

The Arc of Pennsylvania also presented their award to Gingrich for sponsoring and supporting several bills including the Work Experience for High School Students With Disabilities Act. This important investment in youth with disabilities gives them an opportunity to obtain part time employment while still in high school. This will help youth with disabilities to become taxpaying, productive members of an integrated workforce after graduation.

From left, The Arc Executive Director Maureen Cronin, state Sen. Lisa Baker, state Rep. Mauree Gingrich, The Arc Board Director Ken Oakes.
http://www.theabingtonjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/web1_ABJ-Arc-Legislators-2.jpg.optimal.jpgFrom left, The Arc Executive Director Maureen Cronin, state Sen. Lisa Baker, state Rep. Mauree Gingrich, The Arc Board Director Ken Oakes. Submitted photo

For Abington Journal

Information provided by The Arc of Pennsylvania.