Press Release: 1/26/2026

Statement from CEO Maura Sullivan on Protecting Our Workforce

 

January 25, 2026

 

The Arc of Massachusetts stands in 100% support of Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley’s urgent push to protect Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for our Haitian neighbors.

With the February 3 deadline fast approaching, Congresswoman Pressley has launched a “discharge petition” to force a vote and extend these vital protections. This is a needed action to protect the workforce for the disability community.

Many TPS holders are the dedicated direct support professionals, home health aides, and caregivers who provide life-sustaining support to individuals with IDD and autism.

Losing these valued community members would devastate families and worsen the critical shortage of caregivers in Massachusetts.

Forcing our neighbors back to a country facing extreme violence and instability is inhumane and indefensible.

We thank Congresswoman Pressley for her leadership in defending the care economy and the rights of our neighbors. It is time for Congress to act.