DDAWNY is pleased to join Arc New York and the New York Alliance for Inclusion & Innovation in hosting the 2026 Joint Legislative & Advocacy Forum, taking place on Monday, February 9, 2026, at the newly renovated Hart Lounge of The Egg in Albany.
A highlight of this year’s forum will be a featured panel, “The Albany Insiders,” offering expert analysis and insight into the proposed FY 2027 Executive Budget and what it means for New York’s developmental disabilities service system. This timely discussion will help advocates, providers, and stakeholders better understand the budget landscape and prepare for the advocacy ahead.
The Albany Insiders panel will take place from 2:45–3:45 PM and will feature:
- Dana Carotenuto, Esq., Senior Vice President, The MirRam Group
- Bill Hammond, Senior Fellow for Health Policy, Empire Center for Public Policy
- Evan Sullivan, Senior Vice President, Ostroff Associates
Each panelist brings extensive experience in state government, budget negotiations, and public policy impacting healthcare, Medicaid, mental health, and developmental disabilities.
The Joint Legislative & Advocacy Forum provides attendees with access to critical information on the Executive Budget proposal, upcoming legislation, and effective advocacy strategies, while also offering opportunities to engage directly with legislative leadership from the Senate and Assembly. As we head into another pivotal budget year, it is more important than ever for our community to maintain a strong, unified voice in Albany.
Registration opens at 10:00 AM, with programming running from 11:00 AM–4:00 PM. A boxed lunch and light refreshments will be provided. The registration fee is $125 per person, and hotel information for February 8–9 is available during registration.
We encourage attendees planning to meet with state legislators to schedule appointments as early as possible.
👉 Register today and join us in Albany to help ensure our voices are heard.