About Us
Our mission is to empower people living with neuromuscular diseases to live longer, more independent lives.
DOJ Memo Threatens the Right of People with Disabilities to Live in Their Communities
Washington, D.C, Tuesday, June 23, 2026 – The Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel released a memorandum undermining the integration mandate required by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, as affirmed by the Olmstead v. Lois Curtis Supreme Court decision – which found that unnecessary institutionalization of people with disabilities constitutes discrimination, in violation of the law. The memo wrongfully argues that states do not have to provide in-home or community-based care to people with disabilities.
The integration mandate is a core doctrine in disability rights: that people with disabilities have the right to live and receive services in the most integrated setting appropriate for their needs. The mandate has enabled individuals living with neuromuscular diseases, many requiring complex care, to remain in their communities where they overwhelmingly prefer to be, as opposed to isolating, high-cost institutional settings.
This right is well-established through decades of law and Supreme Court precedent and is unchanged by this memo. The neuromuscular disease community will continue to assert their right to receive services in the most integrated setting. The Muscular Dystrophy Association strongly condemns the assertions in the memo and will work tirelessly to protect the right of people with neuromuscular diseases to live, learn, work and thrive in the community. We urge the Office of Legal Counsel to retract its advice.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization. As strategic partners with the federal government, we work with public officials and administrations of all parties to advance policies that protect the rights, inclusion, dignity, and agency of people with neuromuscular disease. We do not endorse or support candidates or engage in political campaigns or activities. For questions regarding our advocacy work or policy positions, contact advocacy@mdausa.org.
Media inquiries contact press@mdausa.org.
About Muscular Dystrophy Association
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has been at the center of progress for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular conditions for 75 years. We unite researchers, clinicians, advocates, and families to speed the pace of discovery, improve access to expert care, and ensure inclusion in every aspect of life. Our mission is simple: give the people we serve the tools and opportunities to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org. Follow MDA on social media on Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
