What's Being Discussed

The Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) of Hawaii is holding its monthly meeting on August 6, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. You can attend in person in Honolulu or join online via Zoom.

• Council committee updates covering recent activities, a community survey, the State Plan for Independent Living, and finances
• Recap of the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) Annual Conference
• Federal advocacy updates, including positions on national legislation such as:
  • Increased federal funding for independent living programs
  • Reducing Medicaid's preference for institutional care over home- and community-based care
  • Full funding for special education (IDEA)
  • Allowing people on SSI to save more money without losing benefits
  • Expanding competitive, integrated employment for people with disabilities
• Updates on federal policy changes affecting fair housing, education equity rules, and the Olmstead Supreme Court decision, which protects the right of people with disabilities to live in their communities
• Efforts to restart the Honolulu Mayor's Committee on People with Disabilities
• Planning for a new SILC Strategic Plan
• Upcoming community events for August 2026 and the next fiscal year

Decisions Expected

• A vote on the travel budget for conferences
• Approval of the meeting agenda and previous meeting minutes

Who Should Pay Attention

• People with disabilities in Hawaii who rely on independent living services, Medicaid, housing, or education support
• Disability advocates and service providers following federal policy changes
• Oahu residents interested in the Mayor's Committee on People with Disabilities
• Anyone wishing to give public comment — you have 3 minutes per agenda item, and written testimony is also accepted